Autumn in Tennessee is one of our favorite seasons, bursting with gorgeous foliage and the smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the air. Our affinity for calorie-laden pastries revs into high gear, which means there are all sorts of donuts and cookies and ciders to enjoy while out and about in the stunning great outdoors. While you're snacking away on the taste of the season, make sure to pitch up in one of these gorgeous, foliage-rife spots in the state. You really can't beat an autumn afternoon in Tennessee, friends.
11. Elk River Falls
Located in Roan Mountain, this gorgeous spot is full of stunning fall foliage during the autumn season and well off the touristy beaten path. We'd highly recommend if you're local, to hike in and get your fill of the beautiful atmosphere.
10. Cades Cove
Cades Cove in the fall is one of the most breathtaking views in the entire state. The lush, massive cove is host to all sorts of brilliant fall colors during the autumn season, peaking at mid to late October.
9. Cherohala Skyway
At roughly 3,000 feet above sea level, the Cherohala Skyway is truly the king of sky-high beauty. The National Scenic Byway is well trafficked by folks who choose to drive, but if you have the chance to hike we'd recommend it.
8. Roan Mountain
The mountains explode with color during the autumn months on Roan Mountain. Although it may be best known for its sunny rhododendron population during the summertime, we'd recommend watching the mountains glow orange with the wash of the fall season.
7. Clingmans Dome
The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains makes for the perfect vantage point from which to see all the colors in the park. If you're looking for a quick hike with a massive pay-off, this is your spot.
6. Natchez Trace
The historic Natchez Trace runs throughout the state and straight through to Mississippi, playing host to beautiful fall foliage down the entire route.
5. Radnor Lake State Natural Area
This Nashville diamond in the rough is popular for locals and tourists, and no matter how crowded it may get on Saturdays (come early for a parking spot!), we'll always show up for the beautiful season change.
4. Meeman-Shelby State Park
Located right on the banks of the Mississippi River, this Millington-based state park boasts 13,000 acres that explode with color come October. Book a camping spot and spend the night in the beauty, why don't you?
3. Newfound Gap
Known as one of the prettiest drives in the state, Newfound Gap is an old mountain pass that takes you through the southern Appalachian mountains and runs from Cherokee in North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Bring your cameras and settle in for the road trip of your lives, folks.
2. Frozen Head State Park
Frozen Head State Park has more than 24,000 acres dedicated to its lush natural beauty, and during the autumn season its wild facade is elevated with orange, yellow, red and lustrous brown foliage.
1. Fall Creek Falls
Fall Creek Falls is the most visited state park in Tennessee, and for good reason. Rife with gorgeous forests and speckled with waterfalls, this state park is a prime spot to experience the bright colors of a Tennessee autumn.
If you're looking for more fun places to experience, these destinations in East Tennessee are downright brilliant.
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