Fall Color Reports from 2012

November 12 

Bote Mountain – (From Lead Cove Trail to Finely Cane Trail) -  Scattered colorful foliage – one line of ridges has beautiful display – Contrast of Wine Colored foliage and bright green Hemlock and Pine needles very beautiful.

Finely Cane – (Beginning to End) – A few scattered trees with colorful foliage.

November 9

Some very impressive areas of fall color linger at the park’s lower elevations (below 3,000’). Scarlet oak, northern red oak, the birches, sumac, and spicebush are especially vibrant. At the higher elevations, fresh snow crowns Mt. Le Conte and the Appalachian Trail.

Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Gatlinburg Bypass, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), The Foothills Parkway North (between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge—the “Spur”) and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Mingus Creek Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Oconaluftee River Trail, and Abrams Falls.

Witch-hazel, the last flowering tree of the season, is in bloom.

November 8

Remarkably, some bright swatches of fall color linger at the park’s lower elevations (below 3,000’). Scarlet oak, northern red oak, the birches, and spicebush are especially vibrant. At the higher elevations the landscape is snowy.

Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Gatlinburg Bypass, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), The Foothills Parkway North (between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge—the “Spur”) and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Lakeshore Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Oconaluftee River Trail, and Abrams Falls.

Witch-hazel, the last flowering tree of the season, is in bloom.

November 5  Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Lumber Ridge Trail (Beginning to End) – Although fall foliage is at least 70% past peak on this trail there are ample colorful foliage to make a trek up this trail is well worth the hike especially in full sun.
 
Curry Mountain (Beginning to End) – First mile from Little River Road has some nice colorful foliage – after that few colorful leaves left.   On the first half mile looking across the river the lower ridges have really nice rust, orange, bronze and gold foliage particularly in full sun.

October 29

Despite the winds and rains, areas of vibrant fall color persist in the Great Smoky Mountains. Oaks and maples at the lower elevations are now at peak. Other trees, such as sourwood, sumac, and spicebush, continue to add rich color to the landscape.

The colors of late autumn are now enhanced by over six inches of snow in the Smoky Mountain high country. Snows are predicted to continue at the highest elevations through Tuesday night.

Some of the best places to enjoy the sights of late autumn right now are Rich Mountain Road (out of Cades Cove), The Foothills Parkway East (Cosby area) and West (Walland area), Little River Road, and the Deep Creek and Cosby areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, Smokemont Loop, Laurel Falls, and Hen Wallow Falls.

October 26

Fall colors are now at peak at the lower elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Some of the best places to enjoy them right now are Rich Mountain Road (out of Cades Cove), The Foothills Parkway East (Cosby area) and West (Walland area), Little River Road, and the Deep Creek and Cosby areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, Smokemont Loop, and Hen Wallow Falls.

Fall color season will soon be coming to an end, so don’t wait any longer!

October 24

A 10-day stretch of nearly perfect sunny days and cool nights has been the catalyst for a spectacular fall color show happening right now in the Great Smoky Mountains. Colors are at or near peak at elevations below 4,000 feet. At the lowest elevations of the park a few trees, including many oaks, are still green, so there is still promise for fall colors continuing into next week.

Some of the best places to enjoy fall color right now are Rich Mountain Road (out of Cades Cove), The Foothills Parkway East (Cosby area) and West (Walland area), and the Deep Creek and Cosby areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, Smokemont Loop, and Hen Wallow Falls.

October 19-22

Chestnut Branch – (Beginning to End) – Scattered trees with bright colors, but it appears many of the leaves have been blown from the tree.

Appalachian Trail – (From Chestnut Branch) – Really nice and colorful foliage especially with full sun.

Lower Mount Cammerer – (Beginning to End) – Colorful foliage but best and most brilliant foliage on the last three miles before the junction with the A T.

Foothills Parkway East – (Beginning to End) – Past peak; however many of the trees have colorful foliage particularly in full sun (best time between 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM).

Rich Mountain Road – (Beginning to End) – First two miles rather bland foliage; however much of the balance of the road (inside the park)  had brilliant foliage Friday.

October 18

A long stretch of nearly perfect sunny days and cool nights is the catalyst for a spectacular late October fall color show in the Great Smoky Mountains. Right now colors are at or near peak at many locations in the Smokies. They are at peak at elevations above 3,500 feet throughout the park and on sunny ridges where early-changing trees like sourwood, blackgum, dogwood, and chestnut oak predominate. At the lower elevations of the park some trees are still green, but colors should peak over the next 10 days.

Little River and Laurel Creek roads have excellent color right now. Cades Cove is surrounded by mountains that are nearly at peak. If you want to beat the crowds and enjoy fall splendor, try the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Foothills Parkway East and West, Heintooga Ridge and Balsam Mountain roads, and the Deep Creek and Greenbrier areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, Smokemont Loop, and Hen Wallow Falls.

October 15 & 16 from Tom Harrington

Metcalf Bottoms Trail (Beginning to End) – Appears that foliage is changing rapidly and nearing their peak.   There is not a lot of vivid colored foliage.

Walker Sisters Cabin (Beginning to End) – Appears that the foliage is changing colors quickly and nearing their peak.   Much of the foliage is somewhat drab.

Little Brier Gap (Beginning to End) – Foliage appears to be close to being at its peak in colors.  first part of the trail does not have much bright colors, but the last portion has some nice foliage color. It does appear to be at its peak.

Little Greenbrier (Beginning to End) - Fantastic colorful foliage especially between Little Brier Gap and the Laurel Falls Trail.  It should soon be at its peak showing if not there already.   This would be a great trail to send visitors on to see nice foliage if it is a clear day.  The last 2.4
miles has the most vivid display.  This trail would give New England a run for its money at this time.

Little River Road (From Metcalf Bottoms to the Wye) – Very beautiful foliage at this time especially between Metcalf Bottoms and the Sinks.  I would consider the foliage at its peak.  Between the Sinks and the Wye it looks as if some of the foliage has been blown from the trees.

Laurel Creek Road (Beginning to End) In full sun amazingly beautiful especially from the Wye to about a mile east of School House Gap Trail.   Foliage appears to be at peak and in some sections just beyond peak.  Our visitors should be delighted.

Cades Cove Loop Road  (Beginning to End) - Colors are more subdued than either Little River or Laurel Creek Road; however some of the Sour Wood, Black Gum, Sweet Gum, Dogwood and Hickory have really nice colorful foliage.  A visitor told me that the colors on the Rich Mountain Road are very nice.

Crib Gap is not at peak yet.

October 15

Fall colors are at or near peak at many locations in the Smokies. They are at peak at elevations above 4,000 feet throughout the park and on sunny ridges where early-changing trees like sourwood, blackgum, and chestnut oak predominate. At the lower elevations of the park some trees are still green, but colors should peak over the next two weeks.

Little River and Laurel Creek roads have excellent color right now. Cades Cove is surrounded by mountains that are nearly at peak. If you want to beat the crowds and enjoy fall splendor, try the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Foothills Parkway East and West, Heintooga Ridge and Balsam Mountain roads, and the Deep Creek and Greenbrier areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, and Hen Wallow Falls.

October 12

Fall colors are now at their peak at the highest elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Birches, beeches, mountain maple, and other deciduous trees and shrubs are showing very good color above elevations of 4,000 feet. Good places to view the colors include Clingmans Dome Road, Newfound Gap Road, The Blue Ridge Parkway, and Balsam Mountain Road.

At the lower elevations the colors are coming on strong. Early changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, Virginia creeper, black walnut, and the sumacs are at peak. The birches and a few maples have also started to change. Little River Road is a beautiful drive right now. The peak of color at the lower elevations is predicted to occur in late October and early November.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include the Appalachian Trail, Mt. Cammerer, Charlies Bunion, Sweat Heifer Creek, and upper Deep Creek.

In addition, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous. Visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 8

The fall colors are now superb at the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains, especially at elevations between 4,000 and 5,500 feet. Above this elevation, colors are past peak, though remnants still linger. Along Little River Road and in the Deep Creek area, and elsewhere at the lower elevations, early-changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, sumac, black walnut, and Virginia creeper are near peak.

This is a great time to take a drive on Newfound Gap Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Balsam Mountain Road. Views from the scenic overlooks down onto the colorful forests are spectacular. Little River and Laurel Creek roads also offer pleasant fall scenery. Above average rainfall this year has meant that trees are still holding plenty of leaves and this could lead to an exceptional color season.

Look for a peak of fall colors at the lower elevations in late October and early November. Coincidentally, bears have been highly visible this month. Most bears are being sighted in trees eating wild grapes or acorns. Sightings have been in Cades Cove and along Cherokee Orchard Road. Visitors should never approach bears. Pull you car off the road when observing all wildlife.

September 28

Almost overnight, fall colors are showing up all over the Great Smoky Mountains. At the lower elevations, early changers like black gum, dogwood, Virginia creeper, sumac, and sourwood are displaying rich reds. At the mid elevations, yellow buckeyes are shifting to gold while yellow birch, American beech, and some maples are showing good color.

At the highest elevations, fall has arrived. American mountain-ash has changed to orange or yellow and witch-hobble has gone to burgundy. Mountain maple and berry bushes are also turning. The peak of color at the high elevations should last into the first week of October.

At the lower and mid elevations fall color is likely to peak in late October or early November.

For the most part, 2012 has been a wet year in the Smokies and the deciduous trees appear to be holding onto their leaves quite well. During drought years some trees have already lost many of their leaves by the end of September. Recent rain showers should improve the chances of an extended color season this year.

Recommended hikes include Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, Road Prong, Thomas Divide, Mt. Cammerer Tower, and Gregory Bald. Good drives are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Balsam Mountain Road, and Clingmans Dome Road.

September 24

Curry Mountain Trail (Beginning to End) – Some really nice colors on some of the Sourwood, Dogwood, Blueberries, Red Maples, and Sugar Maples.   One Ridge Across Little River  from Curry Mountain Trail (half mile in) has a group of trees with nice colors.

September 22

Nice splashes of fall color are now appearing in the Great Smoky Mountains. At the lower elevations, early changers like black gum, Virginia creeper, and sourwood are showing bright reds. At the mid elevations, yellow buckeyes are shifting toward gold while yellow birch, American beech, and some maples are showing patches of color.

At the highest elevations, fall has arrived. American mountain-ash has changed to orange or yellow and witch-hobble has gone to burgundy. The peak of color at the high elevations will likely occur around September 24-30.

At the lower and mid elevations fall color is likely to peak in late October or early November.

Wildflowers continue to be spectacular with jewelweed, goldenrod, New York ironweed, and great blue lobelia putting on a brilliant show.

Recommended hikes include Clingmans Dome Tower, Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, Road Prong, Thomas Divide, Mt. Cammerer Tower, and Charlies Bunion. Good drives are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Balsam Mountain Road, and Clingmans Dome Road.

September 19

Although it’s only mid-September, spots and splashes of fall color are beginning to appear in the Great Smoky Mountains. At the lower elevations, early changers like black gum, Virginia creeper, and sourwood are showing bright reds.

At the mid elevations, yellow buckeyes are shifting toward gold while yellow birch, American beech, and some maples are showing hints of color.

At the highest elevations, fall has arrived. American mountain-ash has changed to orange or yellow and witch-hobble has gone to burgundy.

Wildflowers continue to be spectacular with jewelweed, goldenrod, New York ironweed, cardinal flower and great blue lobelia putting on a brilliant show.

Recommended hikes include Clingmans Dome Tower, Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, Road Prong, Thomas Divide, and Charlies Bunion. Good drives are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Balsam Mountain Road, and Clingmans Dome Road.

September 12

Although we’re still in the first half of September, spots and splashes of fall color are beginning to appear in the Great Smoky Mountains. At the lower elevations, early changers like black gum and sourwood are showing some bright reds. At the mid elevations, yellow buckeyes are shifting toward gold while yellow birch, American beech, and some maples have begun their departure from green.

At the highest elevations, early fall has arrived. American mountain-ash is showing orange and yellows and witch-hobble has gone to burgundy.

Wildflowers continue to be spectacular with jewelweed, goldenrod, New York ironweed, cardinal flower and great blue lobelia putting on a brilliant show.

Recommended hikes include Clingmans Dome Tower, Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, Road Prong, Thomas Divide, and Charlies Bunion. Good drives are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Balsam Mountain Road, and Clingmans Dome Road.

Fall Color Reports & Forecasts from 2011, 2010, and 2009

Tom Harrington, Volunteer, Hiker, and Park Naturalist Extraordinaire

November 23, 2011 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Ace Gap – (Beginning to End) – A few greenbriers, blackberries, and blueberries with colorful foliage and a few Sugar Maples, Scarlett Oaks, and Sourwoods (all small saplings).

November 14 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Rich Mountain (Beginning to End) – Very little colorful foliage left.

Scott Mountain (Beginning to End) – Still pockets of colorful yellow foliage scattered along the trail especially down the draws.

School House Gap (Beginning to End) - Nice orange and red foliage on the last mile and a half of this trail.

November 8 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Remarkably, some bright swatches of fall color continue to linger at the park’s lower elevations (below 3,000’). The section of Little River Road between Sugarlands Visitor Center and Fighting Creek Gap and the Gatlinburg Bypass are especially vibrant. At the higher elevations the landscape has made the transition to winter.

Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Gatlinburg Bypass, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), The Foothills Parkway North (between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge—the “Spur”) and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Lakeshore Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Oconaluftee River Trail, and Abrams Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

Witch-hazel, the last flowering tree of the season, is in bloom.

November 2 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Superb fall colors continue to linger at the park’s lower elevations (below 3,000’). The section of Little River Road between Sugarlands Visitor Center and Fighting Creek Gap and the Gatlinburg Bypass are especially vibrant. At the higher elevations the landscape has made the transition to winter.

Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Gatlinburg Bypass, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Lakeshore Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Oconaluftee River Trail, and Abrams Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 31 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Rich Mountain Loop (Beginning to End) – Between John Oliver Cabin and junction with Indian Grave Trail there are sections with very beautiful foliage. Trees with colorful foliage that I could identify are: Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Scarlet Oak, Beech, Sourwood, and Tulip Poplar.

Indian Grave (From Rich Mountain Loop to Crooked Arm Trail) – Foliage is really nice first mile from Rich Mountain Loop Trail. Also, where clearings some beautiful views of Townsend with the foliage.

Crooked Arm (Beginning to End) – Much of the trail has breathtaking brilliant foliage especially after the first half mile from Rich Mountain Loop Trail. Trees with nice foliage that I could identify are: Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Scarlet Oak, Blueberry, and Sourwood.

Special Note: At this time the foliage is nice enough on Crooked Arm and above the John Oliver Cabin on Rich Mountain Loop Trail to recommend to visitors who wish to hike and see nice foliage.

October 28 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Fall colors at the lower elevations (below 3,000 feet) of the Great Smoky Mountains are now at peak. Colors at the mid and higher elevations are past peak. Some green still lingers at the lowest elevations, so oak and maple trees should continue to show fall colors into November.

Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Greenbrier, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Smokemont Loop, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Oconaluftee River Trail, and Henwallow Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 24 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

The Great Smoky Mountains are now a mosaic with fall colors in some areas past-peak, some at peak, and some pre-peak. On the mountain tops, at elevations above 4,000 feet, fall colors are now gone. Colors are at peak at the mid elevations. At the lower elevations, where the forest is rich with maple and oak trees, there are still some green leaves but the peak is imminent. Colors will likely peak at the lower elevations this week, though the oaks and some maples will provide splashes of color well into November.

The fall color display is exceptional this year. Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Greenbrier, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Smokemont Loop, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, and Henwallow Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 21 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

The Great Smoky Mountains are now a mosaic with fall colors in some areas past-peak, some at peak, and some pre-peak. At elevations above 4,000 feet, fall colors are gone but three inches of snow and lots of rime ice now decorate the landscape. Fall colors are at peak at the mid elevations. At the lower elevations, where the forest is rich with maple and oak trees, colors will likely peak next week.

The fall color display is exceptional this year. Suggested drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove, Greenbrier, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend), and Cataloochee Valley.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Smokemont Loop, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail, and Henwallow Falls.

As if the fall colors and high elevation snow weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 18 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Fall colors are now at their peak above elevations of 3,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is an exceptional display this year. More leaves are hanging on longer than usual and the golds are extremely rich. Good places to view the colors include Little River Road, Cades Cove, the Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend) and Balsam Mountain Road.

At the lower elevations the colors are coming on very strong. Early changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, Virginia creeper, and the sumacs are at peak. The birches and some maples have also changed. The peak of color at the lower elevations should occur over the next 7-10 days.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include Smokemont Loop, Cucumber Gap Loop, Old Settlers Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail, and Rainbow Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 14 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Fall colors are now at their peak above elevations of 3,500 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is an exceptional display this year. More leaves are hanging on longer than usual and the golds are extremely rich. Good places to view the colors include Clingmans Dome Road, Newfound Gap Road, The Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), The Blue Ridge Parkway, the Foothills Parkway West (near Townsend) and Balsam Mountain Road.

At the lower elevations the colors are coming on very strong. Early changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, Virginia creeper, and the sumacs are at peak. The birches and some maples have also changed. Little River Road is a beautiful drive right now. The peak of color at the lower elevations should begin early next week.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include the Appalachian Trail, Mt. Cammerer, Smokemont Loop, Cucumber Gap Loop, and Rainbow Falls.

As if the fall colors weren’t enough, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous right now. But remember, visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 10 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Roundtop (Beginning to End) – Very nice colors – Sourwood, Sugar Maples, Sassafras, Scarlet Oak, and many others.

October 10 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

Fall colors are now at their peak above elevations of 4,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is an exceptional display this year. Good places to view the colors include Clingmans Dome Road, Newfound Gap Road, The Foothills Parkway East (near Newport and Cosby), The Blue Ridge Parkway, and Balsam Mountain Road.

At the lower elevations the colors are coming on strong. Early changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, Virginia creeper, and the sumacs are at peak. The birches and a few maples have also started to change. Little River Road is a beautiful drive right now. The peak of color at the lower elevations should be within 5-10 days.

Suggested trails and hiking destinations include the Appalachian Trail, Mt. Cammerer, Charlies Bunion, and Clingmans Dome.

In addition, bear, elk, and wild turkey are very conspicuous. Visitors should never approach or harass park wildlife. Approaching elk or bear closer than 50 yards is illegal and punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment.

October 7 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Steve Kemp

The fall colors are now superb above elevations of 4,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. This peak of color at the high elevations and along the ridge tops should last from now until approximately October 11. Along Little River Road, and elsewhere at the lower elevations, early-changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, sumac, black walnut, and Virginia creeper are near peak.

This is a great time to take a drive on Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Balsam Mountain Road. Views from the scenic overlooks down onto the colorful forests are spectacular. Little River and Laurel Creek roads also offer pleasant fall scenery.

Look for a peak of fall colors at the lower elevations in late October and early November. Coincidentally, bear viewing has been absolutely remarkable this month. Most bears are being sighted in trees eating grapes, acorns, American mountain-ash berries or other fall fruits. Sightings have been in Cades Cove, near Clingmans Dome, along Cherokee Orchard Road, and on Newfound Gap Road. Visitors should never approach bears. Pull you car off the road when observing all wildlife.

October 3 Fall Color Report Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Sugar Maples, Red Maples, Sourwood, and Scarlet Oaks in the draws are becoming brilliant. There are scattered bright red colors over sides of ridges. Along the Appalachian Trail the Witch Hobble have some beautiful foliage. Some of the blueberry shrubs are changing.

October 3 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Steve Kemp

The recent cold snap has been a catalyst for triggering some impressive fall colors. The mountains are now a mosaic with rich reds and golds at the highest elevations and along the tops of ridges. Along Little River Road, and elsewhere at the lower elevations, early-changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, sumac, black walnut, and Virginia creeper are near peak.

This is a great time to take a drive on Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Balsam Mountain Road. Little River and Laurel Creek roads also offer pleasant fall scenery.

Colors should be peaking at the higher elevations over the next 7-10 days. Look for a peak at the lower and mid elevations in late October and early November. And yes, there was snow at the highest peaks this weekend!

September 30 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Steve Kemp

The current cold snap is giving fall colors a big boost. Early changing trees like the birches, tuliptree, yellow buckeye, sumacs, and Virginia creeper are making the drive along Little River Road quite colorful. Elsewhere at the lower elevations, dogwood, sourwood, and blackgum trees are nearing their peak of color.

At the highest elevations, including Clingmans Dome Road, the colors are finally coming on. The red berries on the American mountain-ash trees are especially striking. Yellow birch, pin cherry, hobblebush, and the high elevation maples should be peaking over the next 2-3 weeks.

The peak of fall colors at the lower and mid elevations, which includes the sugar maples, red maples, oaks, and hickories, usually happens during the last week of October and the first week of November. Some years a smattering of colors lingers until Thanksgiving.

September 26 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Fork Ridge Trail (Beginning to End) – Witch Hobble very beautiful higher elevation of trail, Beech Trees, Sugar Maples, Sourwoods, Blackberry, Blue Berry, Greenbrier, Sassafras, and Red Maple.

Deep Creek Trail (From Fork Ridge Trail to Newfound Gap Road) – Sourwood, Sugar Maple, and Beech trees.

Note: Some brilliant colors showing on Newfound Gap Road in higher elevations and the Clingman Dome Road.

September 21 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

A nice mix of sunny, cool days and some scattered rain showers could lead to a favorable fall color season this year. Reports from New England portend that this year’s colors may be relatively late across the Appalachians.

Sourwood trees on the drier slopes are showing nice reds now. Witch-hobble leaves at the higher elevations are putting on burgundy. Blackgum trees will soon be blushing red. Fruits, such as the fuchsia seed pods of magnolia trees and oak acorns are now conspicuous.

By late September look for more color at the higher elevations as American beech and yellow birch trees transition to gold. Early changers at the lower elevations like sourwood, blackgum, dogwood, yellow buckeye, Virginia creeper, sumacs, and tuliptree should then be near peak. Parkwide, the peak of fall colors generally occurs between late October and early November.

2010 Fall Leaf Color Reports

November 19, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

The forecast for another spell of perfect late fall weather bodes well for catching the last of this season’s colors in the Great Smoky Mountains. Most trees are now bare, but a smattering of color lingers in areas of the lower and mid elevations. Here and there the reds and yellows shine like lanterns in the forest. Oak trees should continue to show good color through Thanksgiving week.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, Foothills Parkway east and west, and Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg and Newfound Gap. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Huskey Gap Trail, and Porters Creek.

November 15, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Lumber Ridge Trail – (Beginning to End) – Most of the colorful foliage is gone; however there are sections with some really beautiful foliage especially in the draws. It was especially nice standing out in the rain.

Meigs Mountain – (From Lumber Ridge Trail to Curry Mountain Trail) – Spots of color scattered on the hillsides.

November 12, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Though many trees are now bare, respectable swatches of rich, late autumn colors linger in areas of the lower and mid elevations. Oak trees should continue to show good color into late November.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, Foothills Parkway east and west, and Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg and Newfound Gap. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Huskey Gap Trail, and Porters Creek.

November 8, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Though many trees are now bare, remarkable swatches of rich, late autumn colors linger in areas of the lower and mid elevations. Snow has fallen at elevations above 3,500 feet, creating a spectacular array of November mountain scenery.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, Foothills Parkway east and west, and Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg and Newfound Gap. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Huskey Gap Trail, and Porters Creek.

November 4, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Though many trees are by now bare, a remarkable palette of rich, late autumn colors linger in areas of the lower and mid elevations. Snow has fallen at elevations above 5,500 feet.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, and Foothills Parkway east and west, and Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg and Newfound Gap. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Huskey Gap Trail, and Albright Grove.

October 30, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Despite some very windy days, exceptional fall colors are hanging on at the mid and lower elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Colors at the higher elevations are now past peak.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, and Foothills Parkway east and west. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Grotto Falls, and Albright Grove.

October 30, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Tom Harrington

Ace Gap Trail (Beginning to End) – Foliage well past its peak; however there are still some nice colors out there.

October 22, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Despite a savage windstorm Monday morning, superb fall colors are hanging on at the lower elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Colors at the higher elevations are now past peak.

Recommended drives include Little River Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, and Foothills Parkway east and west. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Look Rock Tower, Smokemont Loop, Grotto Falls, and Albright Grove.

October 22, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Fall colors are now at their peak above 3,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. Spectacular autumn scenery awaits visitors for the next several days. Suggested drives include Newfound Gap Road (especially in North Carolina) Clingmans Dome Road, The Blue Ridge Parkway, and Heintooga Ridge and Balsam Mountain roads.

The lower elevations are a patchwork quilt of hues with some areas near peak while others remain mostly green. Look for colors to advance rapidly now with a lowland peak from October 26 through early November. Suggested drives for this period include Little River Road, Cades Cove, and the Foothills Parkway east and west. Next week will be a superb time to visit Look Rock Tower on Foothills Parkway west.

Traffic on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and evenings will be extremely heavy on Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road for the rest of October. At these times motorists would be wise to seek other destinations such as Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Foothills Parkway east and west, Tremont Road, and the Deep Creek area. Or travel early in the day.

October 19, 2010 Fall Color Forecast Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Fall colors are now at their peak above 3,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. Spectacular autumn scenery awaits visitors for the next several days. Suggested drives include Newfound Gap Road (especially in North Carolina) Clingmans Dome Road, The Blue Ridge Parkway, and Heintooga Ridge and Balsam Mountain roads. 

The lower elevations are a patchwork quilt of hues with some areas near peak while others remain mostly green. Look for colors to advance rapidly this week. Suggested drives for this period include Little River Road, Cades Cove, and the Foothills Parkway east and west. Next week will be a superb time to visit Look Rock Tower on Foothills Parkway west.

Traffic on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and evenings will be extremely heavy on Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road for the rest of October. At these times motorists would be wise to seek other destinations such as Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Foothills Parkway east and west, Tremont Road, and the Deep Creek area. Or travel early in the day.

October 19, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Laurel Creek Road (From the Wye to Crib Gap) - Close to peak - very nice colors.

Little River Road (From Elkmont to the Wye) - Close to peak - very colorful.

Little River Trail - (Beginning to Cucumber Gap Trail) - Nice colors.

Cucumber Gap - (Beginning to End) - Nice colors but not outstanding (was partly cloudy).

Meigs Mountain - (Beginning to Curry Mountain Trail) - Some nice foliage but not that vivid.

Curry Mountain - (Beginning to End) - Near the beginning and then about a mile and a half up the trail the colors are very nice.

Note: Traffic very heavy for a week day on Little River Road - Metcalf Bottoms had many more picnickers than one normally would see on a week day - appeared more like a summer weekend.

October 11, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Gregory Ridge Trail - (Beginning to End) - Colors are brilliant starting at about 2800 feet elevation - mostly Sourwoods, Red Maples, Scarlet Oaks, Blueberry, Sassafras, and Sugar Maples. At about 4200 feet and above the Beech foliage is great in full sun.

Gregory Bald Trail - (Beginning to End) - The Sourwoods, Sugar Maples, Red Maples, Blueberries, Beech, Scarlet Oaks, and Sassafras are outstanding on this trail. Very vivid in full sun.

It appears that the colors started changing rapidly over night.

October 1, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Appalachian Trail - some Dog Hobble and Sugar Maples are changing colors.

Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail - some of the Sourwood are changing colors.

September 20, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Chestnut Top (Beginning to End) - Sourwood and Red Maple foliage is changing to their fall wardrobe.

School House Gap (Beginning to End) - Sourwood foliage is changing colors.

Bote Mountain (Beginning to Finely Cane Trail) - Sweet Gum, Sourwood and Blue Berry leaves are changing colors. Some of the Sourwood Trees appear to be at peak color.

West Prong (Beginning to End) - Sourwood leaves are changing colors.

September 13, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Sourwood and Blueberry foliage are starting to change to fall colors.

September 6, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Some Red Maple, Sugar Maple, Blueberry, Blackberry, Sumac, and Sassafras leaves are changing colors. On Happy Valley Road on the side of Chilhowee Mountain some of the Maple Trees appear as if it was the third week of October - brilliant colors.

August 30, 2010 by Tom Harrington

A number of Sourwood, Blueberry, and Witch Hobble foliage are claiming their autumn wardrobe.

August 27, 2010 by Tom Harrington

On Little Greenbrier Trail some Blueberry, Greenbrier and Sourwood leaves are changing to fall colors. Some of the Sourwood is especially beautiful.

August 23, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Some of Sourwood Leaves are changing colors.

August 16, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Some of Witch Hobble leaves are changing colors.

July 26, 2010 by Tom Harrington

Some nice red Sourwood leaves.

2009 Reports

November 9, 2009 by Tom Harrington

Curry Mountain (Beginning to End) - Around 80% of the foliage is gone; however there are nice displays scattered along the trail (mostly golds, bronzes and yellows).  In the bright sun the colors were not that colorful; however on the return when the sky was overcast the colors of the foliage stood out - especially on the first half mile from Little River Road. 

Meigs Mountain (From Curry Mountain to Jakes Creek Trail) - Much of the foliage is good.  There are a few areas with some colorful foliage showing.

November 9, 2009 by Steve Kemp

The 2009 fall color season is nearly gone in the Great Smoky Mountains, but notable areas of gold and red persist at the lowest elevations. Most of the trees still sporting leaves are oaks, beeches, and birches.

All the lower elevation trails are perfect for hiking right now. Deep Creek, Little River, Boogerman Loop, Old Settlers, Smokemont Loop, Old Sugarlands, Kephart Prong, and Abrams Falls are recommended.

A drive on Little River and Laurel Creek roads is a good choice. The heaviest traffic has abated now that we are in November. However, frequent “bear jams” on Newfound Gap Road have slowed things down. I-40 is closed through “the Gorge” due to a rock slide.

October 12, 2009 by Tom Harrington

Laurel Falls (Beginning to End) -  Some nice foliage showing (scattered).  

Cove Mountain (Laurel Falls to Park Headquarters) - Really nice Sassafras, Sourwood, and Red Maple foliage along the trail starting about a mile above park headquarters.   Some other foliage also changing.   This trail is 8.5 miles long, but it has some really brilliant red foliage to enjoy.

October 5, 2009 by Tom Harrington

Mt. Sterling Trail (Beginning to End) - Pockets of color visible despite heavy fog.

Mt. Sterling Ridge (From Mt. Sterling Trail to Swallow Fork Trail) - Lots of yellow foliage visible - fog beginning to lift.

Swallow Fork (Beginning to End) - Ridges visible from this trail had scattered sections with brilliant oranges, reds, and yellow foliage.

Some trees are at peak from around 3000 feet up.

Big Creek (From Swallow Fork to Beginning) - Not a lot of changed foliage on the trail but on surrounding ridges pockets of bright foliage could be seen.

September 30 by Tom Harrington

Abrams Falls (Beginning to Falls) - A few Sourwood, Blackberry, and Greenbrier leaves are changing colors.   Special Note:   No acorns found on this trail.

September 21 by Tom Harrington

Chestnut Top (Beginning to End) - A good number of Sourwood, some of the Blue Berrys, and a few of the Red Maple, Sassafras, andSchool House Gap (Beginning to End) - Some of the Sourwood and a few of the Red Maples and Greenbrier leaves are changing colors.

Bote Mountain (Beginning to Finely Cane Trail) - Some of the Sourwood, Sweet Gum, and Red Maple leaves are changing colors.

September 7

Greenbrier Ridge (Beginning to End) - Some Red Maples, Sugar Maples, Sourwood, and Witch Hobble leaves are changing colors.

August 31

Low Gap Trail (Cosby Hiker Parking Lot to Low Gap) - A few of the Witch Hobble leaves are changing colors.

Appalachian Trail (From Low Gap to Mount Cammerer Trail) -   A good number of the Witch Hobble leaves are becoming very beautiful with various shades such as red, wine, orange, yellow, and pink. 

Mount Cammerer (Beginning to End) -  Nice selection of Witch Hobble with colorful leaves along with Dwarf Rhododendron.

August 17

Bote Mountain (From Anthony Creek to the Appalachian Trail) - Witch Hobble are beginning to change colors.

Appalachian Trail (From Jenkins Ridge Trail to Russell Field) - Blackberry leaves are beginning to change colors.

Russell Field Trail (Beginning to End) - Red Maple, Sourwood, and Blueberry leaves are changing colors.

August 10

Bote Mountain (From Lead Cove Trail to Finely Cane Trail) - Sourwood and Sassafras leaves are changing colors.