It’s fall ya’ll…and that means leaf peeping season!  From October to mid-November, the mountains of East Tennessee are ablaze in color, so escape the crowds and discover our vibrant color.  Reserve a cabin for the weekend or just come up for a drive; either way, there are wonderful memories to be made! We recommend you take in the colors of the Cherokee National Forest with one of the following “color cruises” (and don’t forget your camera!):

Ocoee Scenic Byway

The Ocoee Scenic Byway runs through the Cherokee National Forest and winds alongside the Ocoee River on US Hwy 64. Along the route you will pass Parksville Lake, scenic bluffs of the Ocoee River Gorge, the historic Ocoee Flume Line and the Ocoee Whitewater Center.  Do take the side trip up Forest Service RD 77- this section of the Byway climbs to the top of Chilhowee Mountain and offers five overlooks with spectacular panoramic views of the mountains.  You’ll be surrounded by a patchwork quilt of fall color!

HWY 30

Highway 30 is a scenic, winding road through the heart of Polk County, TN in the Cherokee National Forest. Surrounded by forest on both sides, and running alongside the beautiful Hiwassee River, this route provides some of the best leaf peeping in the region. Rich in both history and color, prepare to stop often with camera ready!