The Smokey Mountains are one of the most remarkable places on earth to experience the leaves changing colors and the crisp mountain air in the fall of the year. In the fall and winter months, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds time in the mountains allow one to reconnect with themselves and each other. It creates a sense of wonder when one watches the sunrise and the “smoke” of the mountains clear as the day gets underway. The beauty of the sun setting over the mountains takes the breath away from any traveler.

During the second week of October through the first week of November the leaves are at their peak color. However, because so many factors come in to play it may vary with wet or drought conditions, temperature fluctuations and elevation. One typically sees fall colors first at the highest elevations and then they work their way down the mountains.

The Smokey Mountain National Park offers many activities like hiking, historical home site tours, picnic spots, scenic drives, wild life sightings and workshops for all ages.

Apart from mother nature, the Smokey Mountains are home to Dollywood. Nestled down in the hills of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Dollywood comes alive. The fall month of October hosts Southern Gospel and Harvest Festival with Southern Gospel performances, every day except Thursdays, throughout the Festival.

If anyone has ever wished they could fly like an eagle now is your chance. Dollywood’s newest amusement attraction is the Wild Eagle, the first winged roller coaster in America! The ride climbs twenty-one stories before dropping and rushing to the forest floor. It swoops and flips through the trees with nothing but air under the feet of the rider. The newest roller coaster in the park opened in 2012.

At Dollywood, there are more than just rides to amuse and delight the mind. There are many craft booths and artisans: wood carvers, blacksmiths, glass blowers, candle makers, slate tile works, leather smiths, carriage works and sweet shop. The artisan's hand-made items make a wonderful souvenir or gift for someone dear. The park prepares for the Christmas season in November each year. With the holiday season approaching the park's schedule becomes irregular, check with the park for the dates they are open.

Dollywood Vacations offers complete vacation packages for the family including cabins or hotel rooms and tickets to both the Dollywood Park and Dollywood Splash Country. They also include Dixie Stampede tickets in some select packages. Package pricing is the most economical way to enjoy these three parks and enjoy a private cabin with breath-taking views.

Whatever requirements your vacation may have, Dollywood seems to have it all together. It is a mountain paradise, perhaps you will join us this fall or winter. Could a Smokey Mountain Christmas be in your future?