Fall into Adventure: The Best Hikes, Views & Wildlife in Gatlinburg This Autumn

Fall into Adventure: The Best Hikes, Views & Wildlife in Gatlinburg This Autumn

There’s no place quite like Gatlinburg in the fall. As crisp mountain air settles over the Smokies and the landscape transforms into a mosaic of fiery reds, golds, and oranges, the town becomes the ultimate destination for leaf peepers and adventure seekers alike. Beyond the scenic drives and bustling downtown, you’ll find a quieter, more breathtaking side of Gatlinburg—one filled with hidden trails, stunning overlooks, and the chance to spot elk, black bears, and wild turkeys as they prepare for winter.

Top Fall Hikes with Spectacular Foliage

🍂 Porters Creek Trail (Hidden Gem)
Tucked away in the Greenbrier area of the national park, Porters Creek is a less-traveled path with big rewards. This 4-mile roundtrip hike winds through a forest bursting with color, passing old stone walls, a historic farmstead, and a quiet waterfall. It’s perfect for photographers and those seeking solitude.

🍂 Alum Cave Trail to Inspiration Point
This moderately challenging trail is one of the best ways to experience the Smokies’ elevation changes—and the fall colors that come with it. Climb through tunnels of flaming foliage and over narrow ridgelines for views that will leave you breathless (in the best way).

🍂 Ogle Place & Nature Trail (Short & Sweet)
Near the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the Ogle cabin and loop trail is an easy walk that feels worlds away from town. The historic buildings framed by vibrant trees make for picture-perfect fall moments, and the nearby stream attracts curious wildlife.

Stunning Views Worth the Climb (or Drive)

🍁 Chimney Tops Picnic Area at Sunrise
Skip the crowds and bring coffee to the picnic area before sunrise. The early light sets the foliage ablaze, and you might just see deer grazing in the morning mist.

🍁 Clingmans Dome
The highest point in the Smokies, this short but steep paved walk leads to panoramic views over a patchwork of color-streaked ridges. On a clear day, you can see seven states from the observation tower.

🍁 Myrtle Point (Hidden Gem on Mt. Le Conte)
If you’re up for a longer hike, take the Alum Cave Trail all the way to Myrtle Point. It's a lesser-known spot that offers some of the best unobstructed views of sunrise over the Smokies.

Wildlife Watching in Autumn

🦌 Elk in Cataloochee Valley
A bit of a drive, but well worth the trip. Fall is rutting season for elk, and Cataloochee is one of the only places east of the Mississippi where you can watch these majestic animals bugle and spar in a wild setting.

🐻 Bears near Roaring Fork (Be Bear Aware!)
During the fall, black bears forage actively before hibernation. The quiet trails off Roaring Fork offer good chances to spot them from a safe distance—especially early or late in the day.

🦃 Wild Turkeys in Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a must-visit in the fall, not only for the colors and historic homesteads, but also for the abundance of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for wild turkeys strutting through the fields or perched in trees.

Planning Tip:
Fall is a busy season in Gatlinburg, so head out early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light. Don’t forget layers—temperatures can swing quickly in the mountains.

Whether you're chasing golden light on a hidden trail or sipping cider after a scenic drive, Gatlinburg’s fall magic is best experienced up close. Let nature do the decorating—your autumn getaway is waiting.