Tour Description: Tread lightly through leaves of gold, red, yellow, brown, and green. Hike along the ridges of the Smoky Mountains to secret sanctuaries of majestic sugar maples, pin cherry, red maples, and scarlet oaks in full fall transformation. We’ll take you to our favorite spots where you’ll take in the breathtaking fall colors, snap a few panoramic pictures, and relax in the autumn breeze.
Along the way, guides shed light on the complex system that results in the vibrant landscape. Why do the leaves change color in fall? How to all of those trees change color at the same time? What happens to all of the leaves? These questions and more will be explored on this popular walking tour.
Tours begin in early October in the higher elevations of the park and follow the colors as they descend into the valleys and gorges thru November.
Seasonal Experience: The leaves begin to change color in late September and early October each year. Many factors determine the exact time the trees light up in collections of red, yellow, orange, and brown. Generally, the best time to bask in the change of the seasons is mid to late October. Keep in mind that more visitors descend on the Great Smoky Mountains in October than any other month of the year. So, plan your visit in advance.
WHY GO: More than just beautiful vistas, this tour examines the science behind the splendor. One of our most popular tours, Fall Colors departs in October and November each year. Space is limited. Advance reservations are highly recommended.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Two and a half hours of easy to moderate walking with several stops for water and botanical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 3 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 12 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered in October and November, Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 8:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 5:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Road to Nowhere
Oconaluftee
Newfound Gap
Clingmans Dome
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
