The 7 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Tennessee

The autumn season is upon us, and now it the perfect time to go and see the beautiful fall foliage across the state. Tennessee is full of state parks and other places to see stunning autumn leaves. Find time this fall to take a tour of the gorgeous nature that our beautiful state has to offer!

Cade’s Cove

If you’ve ever been to the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area, chances are that you’ve had the opportunity to visit Cade’s Cove. For those who haven’t had the chance to see this National Park during the fall, get in your car and take a day trip with your friends and family. With this 11-mile loop, you’ll see jaw-dropping autumn scenery every step of the way. The National Park Service recommends that you allow a two to four hour trip to this Tennessee location in order to take in all that is available on the grounds! From the scenery along the hiking trail to the smokehouse and corn crib, you’ll want to make time to see it all at Cade’s Cove during the fall season!

Image credit: By Billy Hathorn (Own work) [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Great Smokey Mountains National Park

While Cade’s Cove is part of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park, there is so much more to see throughout the park! Seeing the fall foliage in this particular park is worth a full weekend (or longer) vacation. From touring the insane amount of hiking trails, to learning about the area’s history, you have endless options for some autumn fun in this national park. Be sure to plan your visit to the park ahead of time — the fall colors draw spectators from around the world!

Chattanooga River Boat Fall Foliage Cruise

Looking for a great little get away this fall? Why not take some friends and family members on the popular Fall Foliage cruise on the Chattanooga River Boat? In addition to seeing the splendid autumn leaves, you’ll sit back and relax during this three hour cruise filled with music, food, and most importantly, fun! You’ll have a great time touring the “Grand Canyon of the South” this fall.

Radnor Lake State Park

Located right here in Middle Tennessee, Radnor Lake State Park is the perfect place for a quick fall foliage stroll. From hiking to wildlife spotting, there is tons to do in your neighborhood  1,332-acre state park. Be sure to take advantage of the many hiking trails available, as many of them are perfect for those simply looking for a simple wander through the stunning fall scenery.

Since this is a popular destination for folks in Middle Tennessee during the fall season, plan to get there during the early hours to secure a parking spot!

Montgomery Bell State Park

Right in Dickson County, you’ll find the jaw-dropping Montgomery Bell State Park. If you’re looking for a fall foliage day trip that’s close to home, you’ve found your answer. With available activities including golfing, hiking, biking, and boating, you’ll find that you have a lot to do at this Tennessee state park. On top of seeing the stunning natural landscape during the fall season, make time to hike along one of the many available trails or bike down the many paths. You won’t regret your decision to see the autumn leaves at Montgomery Bell State Park!

Fall Creek Falls

Did you know that Fall Creek Falls is Tennessee’s largest state park? It is also the most visited! This state park boasts 26,000 acres of hiking trails, streams, waterfalls, cascades and so much more. Families looking for a weekend long trip will find Fall Creek Falls to be the perfect opportunity. The park offers an inn, campsites, and cabins for visitors to stay and relax in while they browse the beautiful foliage and enjoy all that the sprawling park has to offer.

On top of classic activities such as hiking and fishing, park guests have the opportunity to go zip lining, biking, practice a round of golf, and so much more.

While you’re at the park, be sure to find time to gaze at the magnificent falls against the fall foliage. You’ll be amazed at how stunning the natural landscape of Tennessee is!

Natchez Trace

With over 48,000 acres of hiking trails and wonderful autumn landscapes, Natchez Trace is a popular destination for those looking to take in all that the fall season has to offer. In addition to hiking, biking, and fishing, you can also go horseback riding through the beautiful state park.

This historic and legendary Tennessee state park is one not to miss this fall!

Tennessee has so much to offer during the fall season. Where do you plan on going to view the autumn leaves and landscapes?