When it comes to vacation destinations with an incredible fall season, the Smoky Mountains definitely top the list. While for many of us the summer season is still in full swing, school supplies are flying off of the shelves around the country and in many places, kids have already returned to the classroom which can only mean one things: fall is right around the corner.
If you’re a fan the season of all things pumpkin spice, warm boots and cool nights like we are, then you’re probably anticipating taking a short trip somewhere this fall to step back and enjoy it. If you’re planning to visit the Smokies but you’re unsure what you’d like to do while you’re here, you’ll definitely want to read on and learn about 4 reasons why Cades Cove Tennessee is a perfect fall destination:
1. Gorgeous Fall Foliage
When we start thinking about fall in Cades Cove Tennessee, the first thing that comes to mind is the incredibly beautiful color change that takes place in mid-fall. Trees begin changing colors at the highest elevations in late September (so if you’re up for a hike you’ll likely get a sneak peek), but by October and November, the fiery reds, golden yellows and intense oranges paint entire mountainsides in a colorful display unmatched by other destinations. If you’ve never experienced fall in the Smokies, you might be wondering what could be so special about colored leaves, but we assure you it’s something you simply must experience for yourself to fully appreciate it. Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage Forecast
2. Rich History Comes Alive
The Cades Cove Tennessee area is filled with reminders of the rich history found here in the Smoky Mountains, and it boasts the largest variety of historic buildings of any area in the national park. As you make your way through the Cades Cove loop you’ll come across several sites of historic homes, barns and reminders of settlements from years past. Take a tour of settlers’ homes and barns and get a quick snapshot of what life was like for the first Europeans who inhabited the area in the early 1800s.
3. Wildlife All Around
If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, visiting Cades Cove Tennessee in the fall is a great time to see some of the Smokies’ most popular species up close and it becomes easier to spot animals when the leaves begin to fall. White-tailed deer, black bears, turkeys, coyotes and many other animals can be found roaming through their natural habitat as they prepare for the winter season. If you want to be sure you’ll see some Smoky Mountain wildlife during your visit to Cades Cove, plan to venture into the cove in the early morning or evening and don’t forget your binoculars!
4. Cool Temperatures Are Perfect for Exploring
Fall in Cades Cove Tennessee is advantageous for many reasons, including the comfortable temperatures that make exploring the area even more enjoyable. Daytime temperatures typically stay in the upper 70s in the early fall, but if you plan to be in the cove in the evening, definitely keep a jacket handy as temperatures fall quickly into the 40s/50s once the sun sets.
Cades Cove Tennessee is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, but if you’ve never been before, the beauty of the fall season will help to quickly make Cades Cove one of your favorite spots in the Smokies. To learn more about Cades Cove before you visit, check out all of our other Cades Cove information!
