Fall is just around the corner and taking a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains is among the most special things that can be done to get one of the best seasons of the year off to an excellent start. The following are 5 fun things that can be done this fall when visiting Gatlinburg, TN.

1. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most popular times to take a trip to the most visited national park in the country is the fall. There is a really good reason for that. As the calendar turns to October, the hot summer weather begins to ease up even in the lower elevations of the Smokies, and night is the perfect time to sit next to the fire pits while the forest canopy is beginning to slowly transform into the beautiful colors of fall. So if you are planning to go to Gatlinburg during October, you definitely do not want to miss experiencing the amazing views from Clingmans Dome’s and Newfound Gap’s upper elevations. It is very enjoyable to drive over to Cherokee and watch the elk roaming around and then it is alsosa must to stop in at the Mingus Mill. Roaring Fork Motor is situated next to downtown Gatlinburg. During the fall, another place you must visit are the Smokies. Hit the motor trail and explore the peaceful homestead and river areas, or take a hike to the gorgeous waterfalls located in the Roaring Fork section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

2. Take A Ride On The Gatlinburg Skylift Park

Gatlinburg’s SkyLift Park recently become renowned for its iconic Skybridge chairlift ad. This fall Crockett Mountain will have more fun added to it. SkyBridge has had extra glass panels added to it to offer a few added thrills. A new Sky Trail is being worked on to be ready to explore. You can also enjoy music with Music on the Mountains as you are enjoying the majestic views of the Smokies. To top off the fall season, you also can enjoy photo opportunities, hot season beverages, and more await you at one of Gatlinburg’s most beloved destinations.

3. Attend Oktoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg

If you have not made it an annual tradition to attend Ober Gatlinburg’s Oktoberfest, you definitely should. It doesn’t really seem like fall until you have participated in a few mountain Bavarian traditions. If you would like to enjoy some yodeling, beer, schnitzel, and bratwurst make sure to add an October visit to Ober to your itinerary. Also, there are many fun activities to enjoy that are waiting for you at the only ski resort in the state of Tennessee, and during the winter be inspired once the slopes open up and all of the fun in the snow begins.

4. Attend Arts & Crafts Shows

October is the perfect time to enjoy arts and crafts in the Smoky Mountains. The tradition plays an important role in the overall culture of the Great Smokies. At the beginning of October in Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community hosts the Tennessee Crafts Week and Hands-On event. The annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is beginning on the 8th and will be running through October 25h at Gatlinburg’s convention center. Both of these events are a great way to support local artists, enjoy the Smokes, and do some holiday shopping while enjoying your visit to the Smokies.

5. Stay At Appy Lodge

Admittedly we might be somewhat biased when it comes to the fifth thing that can be done this October when you come to Gatlinburg for a visit. However, we do strongly believe that staying with us at Appy Lodge is the very best thing that can be done o guarantee that you have an outstanding trip that is full of relaxation and fun at the best home away from home in Gatlinburg. When you stay here with us you will have easy access to all of the fun and excitement in Gatlinburg and the national park. Also, Pigeon Forge is just a short drive away as are many local area events. Great Pumpkin LumiNighs is a yearly event held at Dollywood. We keep our indoor pool and hot tub open all year round, giving you the chance to still swim even when summer is over. Sitting next to an outdoor fire pit on our grounds is the perfect way to enjoy a fall night. You can also reserve a room with a fireplace to allow you to relax in comfort and privacy. We have guest rooms that are perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, friends, and groups. If you have any questions or special requests, be sure to contact us and we will be happy to help you book your stay with us.