The Best Seasons To Visit The Smokies? We’ve Got The Answer.

Deciding between enjoying summer hiking, spring wildflowers, fall colors, or winter activities in the Smoky Mountains is not a simple challenge! While all these seasons are fantastic, two stand out as the most favoured. In this blog, you’ll find out which ones they are.

With its ever-changing nature, The Smoky Mountains truly are an amazing destination year-round. The best time to visit depends on the activities and experiences you’re seeking in this national treasure. Cities like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer plenty of wonderful things to do no matter when you visit.

However, if we were to choose the best times to visit the Smokies, we’d have to follow popular opinion and say that fall and summer are the top seasons. Wondering why? In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the best times to visit the Smoky Mountains.

Before We Start…

At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer a variety of cabins with amenities like hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Check out our website to find the perfect cabin for your stay.

For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge, head over to our destination blog. From the best rainy-day activities to the top eats in each town, we’ve got tons of local spots and insider tips just waiting for you!

Curious about the Smokies’ seasonal secrets? Let’s get started!

Fall & Summer: The Best Times to Visit the Smoky Mountains 

According to visitors, the shoulder season (September to November) and summer (June to August) are the best times to visit the Smokies.

Fall is a magical time to visit, as the foliage is absolutely breathtaking, with vibrant colors transforming the landscape. The weather is cool and comfortable, and the crowds are manageable after the summer rush. It’s perfect for hiking, scenic drives, and photography.

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor adventures, with long days and plenty of activities. While it can get crowded and accommodation rates are higher than during other seasons, visitors often say that if you want to make the most of the great outdoors in the Smokies, there’s no better time than the summer months.

Fall Colors Smoky Mountains

Fall in the Smoky Mountains is an enchanting and vibrant season, attracting visitors from all over due to its stunning foliage, mild weather, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Here’s everything you need to know about fall in the Smokies:

Ideal Weather

Fall brings cooler, crisp temperatures to the Smokies, making it an ideal time for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures typically range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) in the lower elevations, and cooler temperatures are expected at higher elevations. As the days get cooler, the nights can dip into the 40s°F (4-9°C), so layering is important for comfort.

Fall Foliage

The highlight of fall in the Smoky Mountains is the breathtaking foliage. The forest comes alive with vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and gold, making it one of the best places in the U.S. to see fall colors.

The peak foliage season typically occurs from mid to late October, with the colors gradually starting to change as early as late September in the higher elevations. The higher elevations, such as Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap, see the earliest color changes, while the lower elevations change later in the season. 

Scenic drives are highly recommended during fall, with the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Little River Road, Foothills Parkway, and Newfound Gap Road being some of the best spots to catch views of the fall colors.

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking: Fall is one of the best times to hike in the Smokies. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for long, scenic hikes, and the fall foliage adds a layer of beauty to the trails. Some of the most popular trails include Alum Cave Trail, Glen Falls Trail, and the Appalachian Trail, all offering incredible views and an immersive fall experience.
  
  
• Wildlife Watching: The shoulder season is a great time to spot wildlife, particularly black bears, which are actively preparing for hibernation and may be more visible as they forage for food. Deer, turkeys, and wild turkeys are also common in the area during fall.
  
  
• Photography: With stunning colors and picturesque landscapes, fall is a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re capturing the foliage, wildlife, or mist-covered mountains, the Smokies offer endless photo opportunities.
  
  

 Fall Festivals and Events

• Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Kickoff: Though the holiday season technically starts after fall, Gatlinburg’s festivities start early with lights and events that begin in late October.
  
  
• Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Show: Handcrafted items, live demos, and unique holiday gifts.
  
  
• Anakeesta’s Bear-Varian Fall Festival: Halloween decor, pumpkin carvings, and seasonal foods.
  
  
• Pigeon Forge Fall Harvest Festival: A celebration of the season with arts and crafts, pumpkin carving, live entertainment, and more.
  
  
• Pigeon Forge Bluegrass Festival: Soul-stirring bluegrass music and vibrant craft booths.

For a complete list of the best fall festivals in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, check out our blog, which highlights the most popular festivities happening in town during the season.

Fewer Crowds than Summer

While fall can be popular due to the foliage, it’s still less crowded than the peak summer months, especially after the first two weeks of October. Many of the popular trails, scenic spots, and attractions are more manageable compared to the bustling summer season. However, during the foliage peak, popular locations like Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove can still get crowded, so early morning visits are recommended.

Cozy Accommodations

Fall in the Smokies provides a wonderful opportunity for cozy, cabin-style accommodations, especially with the cooler weather. Many cabins offer fireplaces, hot tubs, and mountain views, making them the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Local Food and Drink

• Fall Flavors: Enjoy seasonal food and drinks like apple cider, pumpkin pies, and hearty mountain fare. Many local restaurants feature fall-inspired dishes and treats.
  
  
• Moonshine Tastings: The Smoky Mountains are known for their moonshine distilleries. Fall is a great time to visit places like Ole Smoky Moonshine in Gatlinburg and sample seasonal flavors like apple pie or pumpkin spice moonshine.
  
  

Things to Keep in Mind

• Crowds: While fall is a peak season, the crowds are still more manageable than summer. However, key attractions can get busy during the peak foliage weeks, especially on weekends.
  
  
• Weather Changes: Weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations, so be prepared for sudden changes. It’s always a good idea to bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for hiking.
  
  
• Booking Accommodations: Due to the popularity of the fall season, it’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.
  
  

Smoky Mountains Summer Hiking Smoky Mountains

Summer is the perfect time to experience the Smokies’ natural beauty in full bloom and enjoy a myriad of amazing outdoor activities for extended hours. Here’s everything you need to know about summer in the Smokies:

Warm Weather and Long Days

Summer brings warm weather to the Smoky Mountains, with daytime temperatures in the lower elevations ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It’s perfect for outdoor activities but can get warmer in some lower valley areas. With extended daylight hours, the season offers plenty of time for outdoor exploration, from sunrise to sunset.

Higher humidity levels in the valleys can make it feel warmer, especially in popular spots like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. However, the higher elevations in the park tend to be cooler and offer relief from the heat.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Summer is one of the best times for hiking, offering access to a wide variety of trails throughout the park. From easy walks to challenging mountain hikes, the cooler mornings and evenings provide ideal conditions for exploration. Be sure to add the Alum Cave Trail, Glen Falls Trail, and Charlies Bunion to your bucket list for breathtaking views of the mountains, waterfalls, and valleys.

Speaking of waterfalls, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to stunning falls like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls, which are especially refreshing to visit on hot summer days.

Other must-try activities in summer include fishing, rafting, tubing, canoeing, camping, and horseback riding.

Summer Festivals and Events

• Gatlinburg’s 4th of July Midnight Parade: One of the most anticipated events of the summer, the 4th of July parade in Gatlinburg is a fun, family-friendly celebration featuring floats, bands, and fireworks.
  
  
• Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales (Gatlinburg): A summer-long street performance festival featuring costumed musical performers, dancers, and storytellers portraying characters from as far back as the 1800s.
  
  
• Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival (Pigeon Forge): Although it starts in late summer and transitions into fall, this festival is a great way to enjoy seasonal activities, arts and crafts, and entertainment.
  
  
• Summer Concert Series at the Island (Pigeon Forge): This event features free live music performances on the Ole Smoky Moonshine Stage. These concerts showcase a variety of genres, providing entertainment for visitors during the summer months.
  
  

Things to Keep in Mind

• Crowds: Summer is one of the busiest times in the Smoky Mountains. Popular tourist spots like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Cades Cove can get crowded, especially around weekends and holidays. It’s recommended to visit popular spots early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds.
  
  
• Accommodations: Summer is a high-demand season, so booking accommodations in advance is important, especially in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, hotel, or campsite, it’s a good idea to secure your stay early.

Extra Tips for Visiting in Summer

• Hydration: Due to the warmer weather and increased outdoor activities, it’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re hiking or exploring the outdoors.
  
  
• Sun Protection: Be sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the sun, particularly in the lower valleys and during peak sun hours.
  
  
• Plan Ahead: Popular attractions can get crowded, so planning your activities in advance will help you make the most of your visit.
  
  

Where Should You Stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?

Our short-term rental cabins provide the ideal blend of privacy, stunning mountain views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing escape in the Smokies.

At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer cabins of various sizes and amenities, including hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Explore our website to discover our fantastic range of cabin choices.

We’re dedicated to ensuring you and your family have the best possible experience in the Smokies. With Smoky Mountain Holiday, your vacation memories are guaranteed to be unforgettable.