NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As temperatures drop and the jackets come out it's time to experience the beauty that the state of Tennessee has to offer.
All across the state, you can see the fall foliage, but we wanted to gather our favorite spots just for you!
According to the Smokey Mountains Fall Foliage prediction map, you can expect to see most of the best colors mid-to-late October. But if you don't have time to catch a scenic view, parts of the state will still be colorful at the start of November.
Tennessee State Parks says while there are a number of determining factors to find the best views, the general rule of thumb for the state is:
- In East Tennessee: Leaves change color in early October and peak in the third week of the month.
- In Middle and West Tennessee: The leaves change in mid-October and peaks by Halloween.
If you're out near Gatlinburg, there's no better place to be than on a gondola ride through Anakeesta! If the ride isn't your thing, there are plenty of places throughout the park to see the beauty!
Located just outside of Nashville, this location is an easy spot for Middle Tennesseans to get to. You can head out to Radnor Lake, enjoy a nice long hike and take a peak at the colorful trees. Something really special about this location is the colorblind viewfinders that were installed.
Click here to see where all the Colorblind Viewfinders are located across Tennessee.
Natchez-Trace Parkway treks over 400 miles and has some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the area! There's a number of trails you can enjoy, ranging from a one-half mile up to 4.5 miles, and a 40-mile overnight trail!
Just 40 minutes West of Nashville in Burns, Tennessee is one of our favorite spots in Middle Tennessee! This spot is ideal for anyone that wants to experience the views in one trip and enjoy the great outdoors. The park has three lakes, hiking, fishing and more to do! And who could ignore those lovely colors?
Late October is the best time to visit this spot. The Cumberland Mountain is just about 45 minutes southeast of Cookeville and offers a number of activities in addition to the scenic trail.
Don't see your favorite? Tennessee State Parks released their "Parks Picks" which feature the spots they believe give the best view of changing leaves.
East Tennessee
Cumberland Plateau
Middle Tennessee
West Tennessee
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at kelly.broderick@newschannel5.com.
I'm so thankful Robb Coles highlighted the Kamer Davis clinic in Hermitage and the hardship that may force its closure. The clinic provides care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities and there is no other place like it nearby. You can tell the staff is so passionate about the care they provide. I hope by shining the light on this, the right person can step in and make a difference.
- Carrie Sharp