Those from Knoxville will pass through Sevierville (“Severe-ville”) on the way to the Smokies. This is Dolly Parton’s hometown — her childhood home is still on Locust Ridge Road.
You can’t have the best small town in the Smokies list without mentioning good ole’ Gatlinburg. It’s the hub of tourism and borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll be surrounded by fall vibes up and down the strip.
Just a short drive away, Tuckaleechee Caverns is where you can see the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” and a 210-foot-tall double waterfall awaits inside. Plus, the Townsend Fall Fest is the true Appalachian way to kick off the harvest season under spectacular canopies of colorful trees.
Leaf-peeing levels up several notches in this small North Carolina town tucked between Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest. Forget the trails and hop on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, with special trips for fall foliage.
Start with a visit to Dale’s Wheels Through Time, a museum dedicated to the history and art of motorcycles and vintage cars. Then, take a ride on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, with the toughest decision being if you’ll head north or south.