Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Peaks Late October
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is gearing up for its 2026 fall foliage season, with peak colors expected between October 28 and October 31. According to the More Than Just Parks Foliage Tracker, the park's higher elevations, ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet, will see peak colors around October 18, while lower elevations, from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, will peak around October 30. The park's diverse tree species, including northern red oak, red maple, and sugar maple, will create a vibrant display of gold, crimson, and bronze hues. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips based on elevation and timing to experience the best views.
