Are you planning a trip to the Smokies this fall? You’ll want to check out some of the hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains that are incredibly beautiful this time of year! You’ll experience cooler temperatures, possibly see some wildlife, and see incredible color changes that make this region of the south so popular this time of year. Look at these 5 of the best fall hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is a great easy trail that’s perfect for anyone any time of the year! With a roundtrip length of 2.6 miles, this trail is paved, making it easier than many other hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains. As you’re hiking up the trail towards the waterfall, you’ll be surrounded by old growth trees that will probably be changing colors. Once you reach the end, you’ll see the 80-foot-tall, 2-tiered waterfall, probably surrounded by red, orange, and yellow leaves!
2. Baskins Creek Trail
As a moderate trail, Baskins Creek Trail has everything you want to see when you go on a hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains! This out-and-back trail is 6.4 miles roundtrip and close to Gatlinburg. The waterfall is about 2.5 miles into the hiking trail, and it stands at 40 feet tall and is in 2 tiers. During autumn, this trail will have plenty of trees with changing leaves, ensuring you enjoy your hike!
3. Andrews Bald
Andrews Bald is another hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains where you’ll have a great view of the mountains and incredible fall colors once you reach the bald. This moderate trail runs 3.5 miles roundtrip. Along the way, you’ll find rock stairs that were created by the Trails Forever Program. The bald isn’t the only area you’ll have great views; all along this trail you’ll be able to look down into lower sections of the Smokies and see the colorful changes fall brings in this area.
4. Gregory Bald Trail
If you’re an avid hiker, you’ll want to hike Gregory Bald Trail. This out-and-back trail is 11.6 miles roundtrip. This trail length and the elevation gain will be easier for people who are hobby hikers. Along the trip up the mountain, you’ll probably see all kinds of native plants and depending on the time of year, leaves in shades of reds, oranges, and yellows. Once you reach the actual bald, which is a 10-acre meadow, you’ll be able to see all the beautiful colors of the changing leaves, as well as an incredible view of the mountains.
5. Abrams Falls
Making your way through the Cades Cove Loop? You should stop and hike Abrams Falls while you’re there! This moderate hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains makes its way through old forest growth, native plants, and possibly even wildlife! Once the colors start changing, it’s a beautiful sight you don’t want to miss. Then you’ll come to the 20-foot-tall waterfall. Water gushes over the side of the falls, creating an incredible natural beauty. You will get great pictures when the leaves are colorful and mirrored in the water.
There are so many hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains you’ll want to go on in the fall. Hiking isn’t the only fun thing you can do when you stay with us! Check out these Gatlinburg attractions you’ll want to try!