Leaf peepers who are serious about traveling to see autumn in its full glory know that Gatlinburg is an epic fall destination. Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains on three sides, visitors can witness the beauty of the season while reveling in the town’s many fall festivals and activities. Either way, you do it, this year’s fall getaway will be one for the memory books. From scarecrows to scenic drives, here are the top reasons to love Fall in Gatlinburg.

The Fall Fests Are Calling

There’s no time like festival time during the Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival. Encompassing several events from now until November 25, there is no shortage of activities perfect for visitors of all ages and interests. From now until October 28, celebrate the season Bavarian-style at the 9th Annual OktOBERfest at Ober Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair will host over 180 booths of crafters and offer visitors the chance to shop handmade items and art pieces from October 4 through October 21. Ready the kiddos in their Halloween garb for an afternoon of contests, costumes, candy and more at Gatlinburg’s Trick or Treat Kickoff Karnival on October 31 at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza. Last but not least, we’re dedicating a whole evening to fall’s quintessential dish during the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff presented by Bush’s® Chili Beans on Wednesday, November 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. in downtown. Come experience one or all four! Learn more about fall events here.

Take the Scenic Route

Is there anything better than a fall drive in the Smokies? We think not. Some of the best routes to set your sights on are all near and through Gatlinburg, from Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Cades Cove, to Newfound Gap. Don’t forget to throw the car in park and head outside to take in the beautiful roadways and historic landmarks you’ll encounter along the way. Learn more about the Smoky Mountains here.

Spirit of the Season

Welcome autumn with fall-flavored specialty batches from the good folks at Ole Smoky Moonshine, Sugarlands Distilling Company, Doc Collier and Tennessee Homemade Wine’s new Gatlinburg Cider. Their locally crafted products are truly something this time of year, and the perfect way to say cheers to autumn. Learn more about spirits and brews here.

Zip Through Fall

For those that love an adventure, the ideal way to get a bird’s-eye view of the gorgeous scenery is by zipline. Anakeesta and Gatlinburg Ziplines offer great rates for parties of all sizes and will leave you in the capable hands of their seasoned ziplining guides. Learn more about adventure attractions in Gatlinburg here.

Create A Memory

For the first time ever this fall, studios throughout the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community will host over 40 different classes, providing craft lovers with the chance to learn how to make their own one-of-a-kind crafts during Hands on Gatlinburg. Classes are happening October 12 to October 14. Book a class here.

Wishing everyone a Happy Fall, y'all!