Fall has always been one of my favorite seasons, and it’s one of the best times to visit the park. Mid- to late October is prime leaf peeping season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Because of the diversity in trees growing in the park, visitors are treated to an especially glorious array of colors. The colors start changing at the highest elevations, and slowly make their way down through the mountains.

Keep in mind, if you’re planning a trip to take in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park fall scenery, you won’t be alone. The fall colors are a big draw, and some of the main roads and paths can get congested this time of year, especially Newfound Gap Road and the loop around Cades Cove.

The National Park service has some great ideas on their site for viewing the scenery while avoiding the heaviest crowds. These include the drives on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Some of their suggested hikes include the Appalachian Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.