Downtown Hotels and Events

Gatlinburg : Fall Foliage in the Smokies

Posted by admin on Sep 9, 2008

Pre-Autumn Gatlinburg-Courtesy smokymountaindestinations.com

Gatlinburg nestles in a vale by the river amongst gently undulating mountainous terrain of Sevier County in Tennessee. Located on a two mile stretch of Little Pigeon River it is a much sought after tourist destination acting as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Contained within a 26 square kilometer area with a smattering of local residents it has an enviable climate that varies with the elevation. The onset of the coming fall will have the region getting colorfully lush and pleasant in readiness for the winter months that would remain moderately cool. Its the ideal getaway spot, the stuff you see in movies and dreams.

Set amidst the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a small town that caters to the tourist traffic visiting the National Park that encompasses some 800 square miles of protected forest area. Gatlinburg becomes an ideal home-base from where it is easier to explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, go river rafting, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and all other outdoor adventures. Simply breathing the fresh air and enjoying the natural charms is a pleasure in it self.

Nature reigns supreme in Gatlinburg. You feel rejuvenated in the midst of the natural splendor of forest areas where the foliage has a charm all of it own. With fall round the corner its going to be a breathtaking turnaround setting the entire forest aflame with a riot of colors ranging from yellow, ocher, orange to crimson. The diversity of the forest land includes a wide variety of fauna and flora that calls out to our primordial senses allowing you to replenish your energies, while enjoying nature in all its myriad forms. The region is one of the largest protected land areas east of the Rocky Mountains. Gatlinburg draws over nine million visitors annually coming here to experience the great outdoors.

The year 2009 will see the Great Smoky Mountains celebrating 75 years of being established as a national treasure. Gatlinburg is getting ready too, to be part of this great achievement and along with the Park’s planned activities, over 75 neighboring community events are joining in with the official 75th anniversary calendar. Gatlinburg being an important destination bordering the great heritage will play its part in the scheme of things.

Gatlinburg provides a variety of accommodations to suit all kinds of vacationers. You could check out the Downtown Gatlinburg hotel site for spacious chalets, cozy cabins or regular rooms in established hotels here. Located by the wonderfully rich natural landscape visitors can enjoy a quick exit literally by the back door to go hiking, fishing, picnicking, or taking a scenic drive through one of the most beautiful parks in the world.

Ober Gatlinburg, an amusement park has the only ski resort in Tennessee. With eight ski trails and three chair lifts it is easily accessible by road and by waterway. Tourists will also love the Gatlinburg Trolley that caters as a public transport system. The scenic region draws photographers from near and far to hold national events and photo shoots in the region. The waterfalls, streams and forest locations make for outstanding natural scenery that gets beautifully captured.

If for some reason you are not keen to climb mountains then take the opportunity to ride the 342 feet elevator of the Gatlinburg Space Needle for stunning views of the Smokies and the surrounding area. The amusement center located next to the Needle is great fun as well with many rides and games. as are the aquatic creatures at the Ripley’s Aquarium. Not to be missed here is Dollywood located in nearby Pigeon Forge, inspired by Dolly Parton featuring rides, attractions and good old-fashioned southern cuisine.

Despite the surrounding natural beauty of the place one might still hanker for some regular attractions. Besides the famed Appalachian trails Gatlinburg has a number of events to make things memorable. Seasons are spiced up with parties, craft fairs, concerts and food festivals. The Gatlinburg calendar of events for fall is jam-packed with exciting things to happen. Festivities begin with the Shark Race United Way Fundraiser, Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, Gatlinburg Run For The Hills 10K Road Race, Old Fashioned Wagon Hayrides, Library Luau party, 11th Annual Taste of Autumn, Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival and lots of more entertainment. A Tennessee vacation in Gatlinburg has thrills and fun every step of the way. Fall is an incredible season to visit with the beautiful foliage and musical shows in store.

Exploring other attractions will have you enjoying unique museums, miniature golf courses, motion simulators, go karting or visiting haunted houses if you are so inclined. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find plenty of things to do that are exhilarating. You’ve only to enjoy short walks to all attractions and fine dining in Gatlinburg. Both hiking and trout fishing can be enjoyed right in town. If you happen to be in a hotel with the deck on the river you can fish right there! This endearing town sitting on the river valley at the foot of the Great Smokies serves as a wonderful junction for some of the best mountain expeditions. With its proximity to the great abundant natural beauty all around it invites you to come relax, revitalize and refresh your spirits.