Autumn is the perfect time for a fall foliage road trip in Tennessee. Taking a quick trip out to East Tennessee is sure to rally your senses and bring you fully into the autumnal spirit. Down here in the south, we tend to believe that fall is the best time of year – and if you follow this road trip, you’re bound to agree. You’re certain to see the best fall colors in Tennessee.

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Fall colors in The Volunteer State never cease to amaze. Gas up the tank and get ready for the best fall foliage road trip in Tennessee!
1. Cherohala Skyway
Dima Parul - Flickr
This 43-mile National Scenic Byway is one of the prettiest places in the state, and garners quite a few visitors a year. When the leaves start changing color in Tennessee, the Cherohala Skyway is where you want to be.
2. Cades Cove
Cades Cove, Tennessee, USA
Flickr Jim Dollar
A popular place in the summertime, Cades Cove is almost even more perfect when you make a visit surrounded by the fall colors in Tennessee.

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3. Clingmans Dome
107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
amsd2th - Flickr
Take a drive out in East Tennessee, and you'll have the option to enjoy peak fall foliage on the way to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Clingmans Dome.
4. Chimney Tops Trail
Chimney Tops Trail, Tennessee 37738, USA
Shannon McGee - Flickr
Drive out to Chimney Tops Trail, and whether you make the two-mile trek up the hill or not you're bound to enjoy the fall colors in Tennessee on the way.
5. Roaring Fork Trail
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Jeff Moore - Flickr
If you're looking for things to do in Tennessee in the fall, this place is a must-visit. With a five-mile loop available to hike, the Roaring Fork Trail is one of the prettiest places you can visit in the fall.
6. Newfound Gap
Newfound Gap, Tennessee 37738, USA
Timothy Wildey - Flickr
Here's autumn in its truest form showing off some of the best fall foliage in Tennessee. Newfound Gap is a scenic highway mountain pass within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it's one that is just begging for multiple trips.

This fall foliage road trip in Tennessee will most definitely help you fall in love with the autumn months – it’s our favorite time of year. Where’s your favorite place to see fall colors in Tennessee? Where else do you like to visit during fall in Tennessee? Let us know in the comments! If you’re looking for more ideas, embark on these 16 picture-perfect fall day trips. And if you need ideas about what to pack for the trip, check out our official road trip packing guide.

Clingmans Dome isn’t only worth visiting in the fall. Once you see the view from the top in this video from us at OnlyInYourState, you’ll want to plan a trip no matter the season:

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More to Explore

Best Fall Foliage In Tennessee

Elisa Regulski | August 13, 2019

What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Tennessee?

While the Volunteer State is stunning all year round, the best time to see peak fall foliage in Tennessee is:

  • Between mid-October and early November

This is the best time to plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains. A world of crisp autumn sights awaits you!

Where are the best places in Tennessee to see fall foliage?

Some of the best places in Tennessee to see fall foliage are:

This is a wonderful place to see fall foliage. There are many nearby hiking trails and scenic drives located around this area.

This spectacular lookout sits at the highest point in the park, so you can really soak up the autumn colors. 

What are the best Tennessee hikes to take in the fall?

Of all the beautiful Tennessee hikes to take in the fall, these are some of my favorites:

This pristine 10-mile trail sits in the middle of Smoky Mountains National Park and offers non-stop gorgeous views.

This short and sweet hike is perfect for beginners and young ones. Take your whole family and enjoy Tennessee’s classic beauty.

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