Fall in East Tennessee is what most people picture in their heads when they think of fall.
Vibrant foliage covers the mountains in oranges, reds, and gold, paired with crisp, refreshing air that breathes life into your soul.
If you’re a local TN explorer, nature lover, or classic car driver, there’s no better way to experience this beauty than by taking a scenic drive through some of the region’s most breathtaking routes.
Get ready to discover the four best fall drives in East Tennessee!
Table of Contents
The Foothills Parkway
The Foothills Parkway offers one of the most stunning fall drives in East Tennessee. Running along the edge of Chilhowee Mountain, this drive gives you panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
During the fall, the mountainsides go crazy with color, creating a picturesque backdrop that feels straight out of a painting. We try to do this trip at least once a fall and get some family photos! Yearly traditions are the best and it’s a fun way to see the kids grow in each one!
Why It’s a Must-Drive:
The vistas are incredible, and the road itself is well-maintained and not overly crowded. There are several overlooks where you can pull over, take in the view, and snap some amazing photos.
Pro Tip:
Plan your drive for late October to early November for the peak foliage. Don’t forget to bring a camera and a picnic basket to enjoy at one of the lookout points. Kinda perfect for a truck bed date night!
Cherohala Skyway
Stretching 43 miles, the Cherohala Skyway takes you through the rugged terrains of the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. This drive is a blend of natural beauty and adventurous spirit, perfect for those who like a little bit of both.
Why It’s a Must-Drive:
The route climbs to elevations over 5,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of rolling mountains and deep valleys. The road is smooth and wide, making it ideal for a leisurely drive.
Pro Tip:
The Cherohala Skyway is less commercialized, so pack snacks and drinks. Also, be mindful of the weather; higher elevations can be pretty chilly in the fall so bring a jacket.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
For a drive that brings you up close and personal with the natural beauty of the Smokies, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is the perfect choice.
This one-way loop winds through dense forests, past a few rushing mountain streams, and offers plenty of spots to pull over and explore.
The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is only 5.5 miles long so it’s a pretty quick drive but is really fun and never too crowded.
Why It’s a Must-Drive:
The trail has a lot of wildlife and natural beauty. You’ll pass by historic buildings, waterfalls, and lush forests, all surrounded by the fall colors.
You can probably tell by now that fall is our favorite time of year! If I could live in the upper 60’s to low 70s with those colors all year. Heaven!
Pro Tip:
The trail is narrow and winding, so it’s best suited for smaller vehicles. Early morning drives are less crowded and offer better chances of spotting wildlife.
The Dragon
If you want a little adventure on your drive then the Dragon is the ultimate driving challenge. This 11-mile stretch of US Highway 129 features 318 curves, making it one of the most exhilarating drives in the country.
I’ve done it in every season and fall is definitely my favorite. That top off the old Bronco and crisp fall air = perfection!
Why It’s a Must-Drive:
The Dragon is legendary among fall drivers for its challenging twists and turns and being literally surrounded by foliage.
It’s a test of skill and nerve, with the added bonus of the amazing fall scenery (the colors! Did we mention all the colors!)
Pro Tip:
Weekdays are less crowded and provide a safer experience. Always drive cautiously and be aware of other thrill-seekers on the road.
Safety Note:
This route can be pretty challenging. It’s not really hard, but some people like to drive fast and can get impatient if they can’t pass you. And there are just a ton of switchbacks. I wouldn’t say the Dragon is recommended for inexperienced drivers.
Make sure your vehicle is in good condition before attempting this drive.
If you get car sick, this one might not be for you. But you will have a chance to have your photo taken by one of the photographers who snaps pictures of you in your vintage ride. You can buy it on the website after!
Conclusion
Hopping in your favorite care and going on fall drives in East Tennessee is a fantastic and unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Take it all in! The leaves won’t last forever and before you know it – it will be cold (and probably not snowy.)
Whether you’re after breathtaking vistas, some rugged off-road terrain, a serene nature trail, or truly adrenaline-pumping curves (I had to drive the Dragon late one night in the middle of winter – talk about getting your blood pumping!), there’s a route for you.
At Get Vintage Vehicles we say start planning your Tennessee trip during peak foliage season, and don’t forget to pack essentials like a camera, snacks, and a sense of adventure.
Start planning your fall drive now and discover the beauty that East Tennessee has to offer.
