Top 5 Fun Things You Should Do in Cades Cove in the Fall

One of the best times of the year to visit Cades Cove is in the fall. The leaves have started to change colors, animals are out and about, and the weather is almost perfect. You’ll want to spend most of your vacation in this popular national park destination! Here are the top 5 fun things you should do in Cades Cove in the fall:

1. Go for a Hayride

When you think of fall, of course you’re going to think of hayrides ! Temperatures are perfect for spending a few hours outdoors without getting too hot or cold. You can book a hayride in Cades Cove through the Cades Cove Riding Stables. The trailer is full of hay, and it is pulled by a truck. While you’re on the hayride, you can enjoy looking around at the beautiful colors and even try to see wildlife. It’s a great way to see the area without having to focus on driving yourself. The guide shares history and a ton of information with you, enabling you to learn even more about Cades Cove. During this time of year, hayrides run 3 times a day.

2. Take Pictures

Trust us when we say you don’t want to forget your camera during the fall when you visit Cades Cove. Even if the leaves haven’t fully changed colors, there’s no better time to take pictures in Cades Cove. Many people pull off the road and walk around to take pictures of the scenery and even take pictures with their friends and family. People also want pictures of black bears, deer, and other wildlife, as well as the buildings you can walk in throughout the Loop. You’ll want to remember your trip forever, so be sure to get out and take as many pictures as you can!

3. Have a Picnic

Before you get to the Cades Cove Loop, you’ll pass the picnic area . By having a picnic in this area, you’ll get to enjoy sitting by a creek and spending time outside. Plus, you’ll be with people you care about. You probably don’t go on picnics very often, so it’s a unique experience all of you will remember! Since the temperatures are more comfortable this time of year when compared to summer, you’ll enjoy being outside while you eat!

4. Enjoy the Weather

Fall in the Smokies is definitely more comfortable than during the summer. It’s not quite as hot, making you want to be outside more! With this cooler weather and less storms, you can actually be outside with hardly any problems!

5. See the Color Changes

The most important thing you’ll want to do in Cades Cove in the fall is enjoy the color changes! You won’t experience anything like fall in the Smoky Mountains. The trees have changed from bright greens to reds, oranges, and yellows. Seeing all of these colors together, especially in a mountain view, is indescribable. You definitely don’t want to miss the color changes in Cades Cove!

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cades Cove in the fall. Wondering where else in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park you should visit during this time of year? Check out these hiking trails in the Smokies !