Tennessee may have the rivers and mountains and rock formations to make a summertime beautiful, but there's just something about the Volunteer State during the autumn months. Some of the best things to do in Tennessee in the fall all revolve around the stunning trees. The hills light up in all shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather loses its summer simmer and falls into a comfortable chill that stretches from the streets of Memphis to the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you're looking for a vacation this year, then you may want to take a look at some of the best places to visit in Tennessee in the fall. They're stunning in their own way, and the photo opportunities are endless.

1. Cades Cove

Cades Cove is an isolated, naturally lush valley that can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains and is one of the best things to do in Tennessee in October. You can choose to hike the area amidst the expansive wildlife, or perhaps choose to take a horseback riding class at Cades Cove Riding Stables. The chilly weather makes it the perfect temperature to bundle up and enjoy the colors!

2. Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it's also the highest in Tennessee, so it makes sense that this is one of the best places to visit in Tennessee in the fall. It stretches 6,643 feet towards the sky and can be easily accessed by a half-mile hike. The views are worth the radical elevation change!

3. Great Smoky Mountain National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains may seem all-inclusive, but we would be remiss if we didn't include it on our list. Hiking opportunities, campgrounds, tourist towns...there's a little something for everyone tucked away in the mountains and foothills, so of course it makes for one of the most memorable Tennessee fall vacations.

4. Mount LeConte

A visit to Mount LeConte is not for the faint of heart! It's the third-highest peak in the Smokies, and it takes six to nine hours to hike to the top. At 6,360 feet in elevation, get ready for a solid trek.

5. Chattanooga

The city of Chattanooga offers a perfect respite from the wilds of the world, especially come autumn. You can't miss the stunning fall foliage that drenches the city in color, and with hiking trails and camping opportunities nearby it's easy to make the trip your own.

6. Tennessee River Valley

Hike or camp the Tennessee River Valley to get up-close-and-personal with some of the prettiest colors in the state. Plus, you'll be far and away beyond any crowds.

7. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

The Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is located near Memphis, Tennessee in Shelby County. It borders the Mississippi and its two lakes - Polar Tree Lake and Lake Piersol - provide a perfect backdrop for fall photos. We'd recommend coming early or late, to see the sun light up the water.

8. Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap is a mountain pass between the states of Tennessee and North Carolina and is one of the best places to visit in Tennessee in the fall. Come with a coffee in hand and eyes peeled. There's a whole lot of beauty along the historic pass!

9. Fall Creek Falls State Park

Fall Creek Falls State Park is best if you're looking to experience the fall foliage alongside some of the prettiest water features in the state of Tennessee. Hiking is required, but beauty is ensured.

10. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Big South Fork is great for camping, hiking, and exploring with 125,000 acres of land that stretch across the Cumberland Plateau.

11. Radnor Lake

Radnor Lake is a popular hiking trail near Nashville, and we'd recommend it as one of the best places to visit in Tennessee in October for Middle Tennessee city-slickers looking for an infusion of natural beauty.

Where will you be heading this fall? Make sure you leave your recommendations for your favorite things to do in Tennessee in the fall in the comments! We added a lot of spots in and around the Great Smoky Mountains to this list, and for good reason. It is one of the best places to go in Tennessee in the fall so why not make a whole weekend getaway out of it and stay in the area? I would recommend booking a night stay in The Smoky Mountain Station. It is close to everything in Pigeon Forge and is a great unique stay in Tennessee. For more fall getaway spots all over the United States make sure to watch this OnlyInYourState video:

If you're looking for a fun way to spice up your autumn vacation, maybe glamping in Tennessee is in the cards!