It's that time of year again. The time when warm, sunny days and cool, clear nights mix with just the right amount of rain to begin to transform 800 square miles of lush green forest into a brilliant palette of vibrant autumnal colors. There's no better place to take in the beauty of fall than in Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The fall color display usually reaches peak at middle and lower elevations between mid-October and early November. Watch as the red maple trees that shroud the surrounding mountains turn deep crimson highlighted by the striking colors of other trees, all combining to make the town of Gatlinburg an unforgettable sight to behold. Find the latest updates on the fall color.
Fall is also the perfect time to golf in Gatlinburg. There's nothing like the splendor of a game of mountain golf. The numerous ups and downs of the terrain always make for a fun and challenging round. It's an experience to be remembered with a scenic background that is magnificent. Try out your skill on the greens of the two popular public courses, one of which has just been upgraded thanks to a stunning half a million dollar renovation. So, what are you waiting fore?
Anytime of the year, the eight-mile loop of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community/The Glades is a drive visitors do not want to miss. The Arts & Crafts Community is nestled in the northeast corner of Gatlinburg, and is the only zoned crafts community in the United States. Visitors may watch live demonstrations of candy-making, watch as ordinary wood is turned into works of art, and marvel at the intricate handiwork of mountain artisans as they handle the delicate tasks of quilting, broom making, and pottery-throwing. There's just so much to see, you can easily spend an entire day soaking it in! Don't miss the great shopping available, be sure to stop in at the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts, and attend the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair. There are always plenty of fun things to see and do in Gatlinburg, and fall is no exception. Check out the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival, the once in a lifetime Gatlinburg Bicentennial celebration, and all of the fabulous winter events. While you're here, make sure you save money on gas by using our handy trolley to get around town. And, as always, there is a wide array of accommodations in Gatlinburg to make your stay comfortable, from luxurious hotels and chalets to exotic condos and rustic cabins.
Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce