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Don’t make these mistakes when visiting the Smoky Mountains in October

You won't want to miss the Smoky Mountains in October

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Great Smoky Mountains in October
David Hertle / Unsplash

October is one of the most magical times at Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s right around the corner! If you’ve never been to the Smoky Mountains during this time, it can be daunting to plan your trip and prepare everything properly. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Smoky Mountains in October, as well as some common mistakes that people make while at the park.

Here’s what you need to know about the Smoky Mountains in October

Smoky Mountains in the Fall
Suzanne D. Williams / Unsplash

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, and it’s known for its incredible biodiversity and stunning landscapes in October. Since it’s home to many kinds of trees, such as maple, birch, and oak, the Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most well-loved places around the country for leaf peeping.

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There are more than 800 miles of trails in the park, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes. Arguably, the most difficult part of the Appalachian Trail runs right through this park, and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart. That said, there are plenty of other hikes that are suited for beginners, such as the Laurel Falls Trail, which ends at a gorgeous waterfall view.

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There is no entrance fee for the park, but you will be required to purchase a $5 parking tag from the National Park Service. Your tag must be displayed on the front passenger side of your dashboard or windshield when you leave your vehicle for longer than 15 minutes.

Common mistakes when visiting the Smoky Mountains in October

Fall in the Smokies
NPS / NPS

Not planning ahead

Winging it might just cost you when you visit the Smoky Mountains in October. Accommodations can fill up fast, so your trip might be cut short if the demand is high on the day you visit. Plan in advance if you are thinking about camping or attending one of the ranger-led activities like Clingmans Dome. Check the official website for road and hike closures, events, and other activities.

Not planning ahead could also cost you your shot at viewing the fall foliage. To make sure that you arrive during the peak of the season, consult a fall foliage prediction map to make an informed decision.

Underestimating crowds and traffic

There are many entrances into the park, and some are better than others when it comes to traffic. The Sugarlands entrance in Gatlinburg is the most popular since it is close to many of the park’s main attractions, like Newfound Gap Road and the Alum Cave Trail. Gatlinburg is also a major tourist hub, so that will contribute to your experience in October. If you’re looking to avoid waiting in lines, try the Townsend Entrance near Cades Cove.

Ignoring weather conditions

Even though October is technically fall, you may experience an incredible range of weather at the Smoky Mountains National Park. The lowest point is near Abrams Creek, at 876 feet above sea level, and the highest point is at Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet. This means that the weather can vary, and you may experience road closures due to dangerous road conditions. Pay attention to the NPS website for any early ice or snow warnings.

Overpacking or under packing for hikes

Because of the difference in elevation, you also might experience a range of temperatures, so pack accordingly. Dress in layers for maximum comfort. A moisture-wicking merino wool base layer, an insulating layer such as fleece or a down jacket, and a waterproof or windproof outer layer will go a long way. Wear sturdy, close-toed footwear, and bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a map.

Disturbing wildlife

One of the biggest mistakes that you could make at any national park is disturbing the wildlife. You are required to stay at least 100 yards away from predators like wolves and and bears, and 25 yards from other wildlife. If you struggle with distances, there’s a camera filter for that!

Furthermore, you should never, ever feed wildlife. Even squirrels can become aggressive when they become habituated to humans, and heartbreakingly, several animals have been euthanized because of that. Carry out what you bring in, and stay on marked trails for your safety and for theirs.

Disregarding National Park Service (NPS) restrictions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park can have serious consequences for both visitors and the environment. These regulations are designed to protect wildlife by preventing dangerous human-animal interactions and ensuring animals do not become habituated to human presence or food.

Ignoring safety rules, such as maintaining proper distances from wildlife or adhering to trail closures, can lead to hazardous encounters and put visitors at risk of injury. Violating these rules can result in fines, citations, or even arrest, and undermines efforts to preserve the park for future generations. Don’t be that guy.

Follow this advice, and you’ll be well on your way to exploring the Smoky Mountains at its finest.

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Sarah Joseph
Sarah Joseph
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