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When Autumn Starts in Tennessee: 2024 Fall Foliage
The best times and places to catch fall foliage in full bloom in each region of the state.
June 26, 2024
Fall Colors Near the Appalachian Mountains
With endless parks and forests throughout the state, Tennessee is the perfect place to get your peak fall foliage fix. Due to the state’s diverse tree species, you can go leaf peeping to see the full spectrum of autumnal colors when the leaves change, from deep reds to vibrant amber. So you might be wondering, "Are the leaves changing in Tennessee yet?" According to the Farmer's Almanac 2024, Tennessee will see peak colors across the state from mid-October to mid-November. Here's where to see peak fall colors in Tennessee for the 2024 season:
Fall Colors Near the Appalachian Mountains
Best time to visit: Early to Mid-October (depending on altitude).
With dense forests, beautiful hiking trails, and rolling landscapes of mountains and valleys, East Tennessee is considered one of the country’s best places to see fall foliage. With the beautiful elevation you get in and near the Appalachian Mountains, you are sure to see an array of colors. Prime fall foliage in East Tennessee varies by elevation; in the higher altitudes, leaves begin to change at the end of September and reach their peak from early to mid-October, whereas autumnal beauty reaches its prime mid-October in the lower altitudes. Viewing the vibrant colors of fall is accessible for even more fall lovers as one of the state’s colorblind viewfinders is located at the I-26 Westbound Scenic Overlook. From this viewfinder, you’ll see views of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina’s stunning hills and valleys.
Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park - Flag Pond
Rocky Fork State Park is sprawled across more than 2,000 acres of scenic wilderness. Get active this fall with rock climbing, biking nearly 15 miles of marked mountain biking trails, fishing in Blockstand and Rocky Fork Creek and hike nearly 20 miles of marked trails. Rocky Fork is a primitive recreation area, so among the easy to strenuous hiking trails, caution should be exercised and hikers should have familiarity with the area and experience with backcountry navigating, utilizing GPS, compass and maps.
Cherokee National Forest
Photo Credit:
@rex.treks
Vibrant fall colors are just steps away in the Cherokee National Forest. Take a day hike to enjoy waterfalls, mountain views and grassy balds among autumn's palette of rich hues of red, yellow and orange. Some easy hikes include the Appalachian National Scenic Trail #1 at Osborne Farm where Cross Mountain bridges Holston and Iron Mountains. It's a slice of the Appalachian Trail that everyone can enjoy. The Margarette Falls hike as well as the Turtletown Falls hike will present you with gorgeous flowing waterfalls as a reward. And, there's also the Pinnacle Tower hike located atop Buffalo Mountain. Climb the tower to drink in views of the region's highest peaks ablaze in fall color.
Unaka Mountain Beauty Spot - Erwin
Photo Credit:
Plan A
Spend some time drinking in the stunning panoramic views found atop Unaka Mountain's The Beauty Spot. Here, you'll see mountains rolling like waves. Located on the Appalachian trail, the trailhead to Beauty Spot is easy to get to - read these directions provided by Visit Johnson City. Once you arrive, hike along the gravel road for two miles until the road forks. Stay right and you'll arrive at your new fall paradise.
Peak Fall Colors in the Great Smoky Mountains
Best time to visit: Early to Mid-October (depending on altitude).
Every fall, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees an influx of visitors who have come to hike, camp and take in the area’s autumnal beauty. With more than 100 native tree species in the Great Smoky Mountains, you are sure to see an array of colors. In the higher altitudes, leaves begin to change at the end of September and reach their peak from early to mid-October, whereas autumnal beauty reaches its prime mid-October in the lower altitudes.
Ober Mountain - Gatlinburg, TN
Take a ride on the Ober Mountain for a breathtaking view of the Smoky Mountains. This two-mile ride to the attraction provides aerial photo opportunities for fall. Once at the top, take a ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster and experience the Smoky Mountains in a whole new way. Zoom down a more than half mile of track through dense forest at speeds of more than 25 mph as the vibrant colors of changing leaves fly past.
Townsend
If you want to experience the peaceful side of the Smokies, spend some time exploring the hiking trails near Townsend, Tennessee. A few beloved favorites for travelers and locals alike include the hiking trail the leads to Laurel Falls; Meigs Creek trail that includes a few switchbacks, 18 creek crossings and ridge views; and Middle Prong Trail which is an old railroad bed and runs 4.1 miles. Cascades, lots of fall color and beautiful forest views await you.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Roaring Fork Nature Trail is a beautiful drive full of stop-offs that lead to old-growth forest, well-preserved log cabins and gristmills and waterfalls. Dive into the history and spend some time in quiet nature this fall.
Peak Fall Colors in Knoxville
Best time to visit: Late October - early November
High elevation can play a role in fall foliage peaking earlier. Take a drive along the Cherohala Skyway near Tellico Plains and the Blue Ridge Parkway throughout October to see a range of gorgeous fall foliage. You'll start to see fall foliage in the mid- and lower elevations in late October and through November.
Sharp's Ridge - Knoxville, TN
Photo Credit:
@mothompson90
In Knoxville, you can hike up to Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park for a stunning view of the city and distant mountains thanks to the overlook platform located about halfway up the ridge. There is a 1.2-mile, all-access, adaptive nature trail with 4.7 miles of multi-use trails that wind through the wooded hills, perfect for hiking and biking. The park has sheltered picnic areas as well and is a great place for wildlife viewing and birding.
Historic Rugby, TN
Be swept away in cozy fall feelings in Historic Rugby. Dive into the history of the idyllic town with an historic tour of the buildings and hear stories of some of the town's colorful characters. Shop at local boutiques and dine at local restaurants. And, if you want outdoor adventure, hiking and mountain biking can be enjoyed at Obed Wild and Scenic River and Big South National River & Recreation Area.
Big Ridge State Park
Big Ridge State Park is more than 3,500 acres of forests in the Appalachian Ridge and Valley range with foliage shining near streams, in valleys and along narrow ridges. Over 15 miles of hiking will lead you to beautiful fall views. Take the Loyston Overlook Trail, rated difficult, to see the widest portion of Norris Lake. Take the Lake Trail for 1.5 miles for beautiful views around Big Ridge Lake. Other activities include birding, fishing, kayaking and boating.
Peak Fall Foliage Colors in Chattanooga
Best time to visit: Late October and early November
You'll find a gradual leaf color change in and near Chattanooga with peak fall foliage typically in early November. Tennessee's Scenic City is known for its outdoor adventure, so if you're traveling to Chattanooga in October, set out on the many hiking trails around the city to see the beginning signs of fall.
Southern Belle Riverboat - Chattanooga, TN
As one of the top places for outdoor activities in Tennessee, Chattanooga is an amazing place to take in the loveliness of autumn. See a brilliant display of fall colors from the water on the Southern Belle Riverboat. The three-hour fall color ride travels down the Tennessee River to the River Gorge for an amazing view of brightly colored foliage. Included on the ride is live music, tour information and a delicious lunch.
Snooper's Rock
Photo Credit:
@vsoutdoorsnaps
Part of Prentice Cooper State Forest, Snooper's Rock is a brilliant example of Tennessee fall color, providing amazing views of the Tennessee River Gorge. The mile round-trip hike is also easy, making it great for families and those who want to capture beautiful photos without breaking a sweat.
Point Park
Photo Credit:
@planetxploration
Make your way up to Point Park to learn about Chattanooga's deep Civil War history, The Battle Above the Clouds and to see Chattanooga laid out under your feet. Point Park is part of the 3,000 acres of Lookout Mountain Battlefield and has amazing overlooks, monuments and cannon positions interpreting Civil War battles for Chattanooga. Pack a picnic and enjoy while enjoying the fall color.
Fall Colors Near Nashville
Best time to visit: Mid- to Late October.
In Middle Tennessee, the leaves begin to change around mid-October, reaching their peak at the end of the month.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park - Nashville, TN
The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, one of Nashville’s most popular attractions year-round, is a beautiful spot to see fall foliage within the city. The main lawn is lined with a variety of trees that come alive with color in October. The park always has events and festivals, especially in the fall, so you can make a full day of this stop on your fall foliage tour.
Fall Creek Falls State Park - Spencer, TN
One of the most picturesque places in Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls State Park is known for its lush forests and stunning array of gorges, streams and the highest waterfall in the area of the same name. In addition to Fall Creek Falls, other scenic waterfalls within the state park include Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls and Cane Creek Cascades. Due to the area’s botanical diversity, you'll experience a bright display of changing leaves in autumn, making the park full of fall photo opportunities.
Natchez Trace Parkway - Franklin, TN
The Natchez Trace Parkway traverses Middle Tennessee and goes through Williamson County, which has stunning photo opportunities on the Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge. This bridge is surrounded by fall colors toward the end of October and you can see for miles. While in the area, stop by the historic town of Franklin, also located off the Parkway. The quaint, historic architecture here creates a beautiful backdrop for seasonal colors. Franklin is also full of autumn festivities and fall decorations.
Fall Colors Near Memphis
Best time to visit: Late October to Early November.
In West Tennessee, fall foliage begins to emerge mid-to-late October, typically reaching the height of autumnal beauty in the weeks before and after Halloween. This part of the state is full of forests with a wide array of tree species that yield bright ranges of colors in autumn.
Natchez Trace State Park - Wildersville, TN
Natchez Trace State Park has some of the best scenic locations in the fall in Middle Tennessee, with endless trails to explore and snap some photos. Rent a kayak to take out on Pin Oak Lake to see a stunning display of autumnal colors reflecting off the water.
Reelfoot Lake State Park - Tiptonville, TN
Located in the Northwest corner of Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake State Park is a beautiful place for fall outdoor activities. Fall color pontoon cruises take place on the weekends during October and November at Reelfoot Lake. See the changing leaves and water birds on a two-hour tour with an experienced naturalist. Tour guides will share their knowledge of the area’s history and ecology while helping you find the best photo ops for fall foliage. Large groups of eagles and ducks migrate to Reelfoot Lake for the winter, arriving just as autumnal colors reach their peak.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park - Millington, TN
Home to gigantic beech, oak and elm trees, the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park comes alive with a myriad of colors toward the end of October. See the foliage by water in a canoe on Poplar Tree Lake, or hike one of the many trails within the park. The 3-mile loop Woodland trail has some stunning vantage points for changing leaves. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is also known for abundant wildlife, so explore the trails for some critters to add to your foliage photos.
Memphis Botanic Garden - Memphis, TN
The Memphis Botanic Garden is another beautiful place for fall photo opportunities in West Tennessee. The 96 acres of gardens and trails have all kinds of trees displaying fall foliage in late October to early November — even some flowers are still in bloom during this time. The Memphis Botanic Garden offers classes year-round, including educational tours and oil painting.
For more information on Tennessee's fall foliage:
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