It’s time to get prepped for the fall! Before you head out on your foliage photographic journey, make sure you plan the perfect stops to take your shots! Besides listing some of the best places to view the fall colors in the area, we’ve also linked you up to some tips and tricks for getting those breathtaking photos.
Mountain Trails & Scenic Drives
Getting a brisk hike and pairing it with a memorable photo is always a winner. Some hiking trails that offer wonderful views are the Andrews Bald, Mt. LeConte, Rocky Top, and Mt. Cammerer (we’ve blogged about this one before). You can also take the steep hike up to Clingman’s Dome for a full panoramic view. Be sure not to miss the scenic photo overlooks where you can pull off and grab a picture from the Blue Ridge Parkway, which starts in the southern part of the Smoky Mountains at Oconaluftee (milepost 469), or the Foothills Parkway within the Smoky Mountains.
Cabin Comforts
Cabins with a beautiful mountain view are plentiful in this area. You can get stunning photos from the comfort of your cabin. Wildwood Mountain Cabins, one of our partners, offers the Amazing Views cabin with stunning views, while accommodating up to 10 guests. Carries Cabin is a private oasis near Cosby, TN, with total seclusion and privacy and sleeps up to 12 guests.
Don’t Forget the Falls
Waterfalls beautifully display the majesty of nature and make a prime subject for photography. The Smokies are home to photogenic falls like Abrams Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Laurel Falls.
Photos and Fun
Who says you can’t have a little fun while planning some fantastic photography sessions? Places like Ober Gatlinburg are excellent for getting panoramic views, and you won’t spend too much to get them. Ober offers a chairlift up to Mount Harrison (3,590-ft elevation), where you can get a stunning photo of Mt. LeConte.
We hope this list added a few locations you hadn’t considered for your next photo outing. Let us know if the ideas we shared for taking photos helped you capture some amazing shots!