Fall in Love with Autumn in East Tennessee
Saying goodbye to summer means welcoming the beautiful colors of fall. Autumn is traditionally a time to hunt and gather the bounty of the land. Hunters are “in the woods,” while gatherers are harvesting the bounty of apples, pears, and nuts that hang heavy on the trees ready to be picked. Others are awaiting the resplendent colors of the season when the mountains are a rich tapestry of orange, reds, and yellows, and the river shorelines are abloom with wildflowers in the majestic colors of purple and gold.
When the air turns crisp and the hills glow with shades of amber and gold, East Tennessee’s 9 Lakes region comes alive with the spirit of fall. It’s the season for hayrides and pumpkin patches, yes—but it’s also the perfect time to embrace outdoor adventure and savor the flavors of the season.
Adventure on the Water
Fall is an unbeatable time to explore the lakes and rivers. Flatwater paddling offers a peaceful way to take in the changing colors, with reflections dancing across calm waters. Whether you launch a kayak at sunrise or take a late afternoon float, the cooler air and brilliant scenery make every paddle unforgettable.
Rankins Bottom on Douglas Lake in Newport, TN is recognized as one of the Audubon’s important birding sanctuaries. Bring your binoculars and your birding book. It is not uncommon to see shorebirds such as plovers, sandpipers, great egrets, and occasionally pelicans and storks. Guided tours are available.
Melton Hill Lake in Oak Ridge is best known for its championship rowing course. Often overlooked is the quiet serenity that this “river-like” lake affords paddlers. If you don’t own gear, this is a perfect lake for novices. The Adventure Outdoor Center rents equipment through the month of October by appointment.
Tellico Blueway is nestled in the Cherokee National Forest. Eleven miles in length, the route will take you along wildflower-covered banks and towering limestone bluffs. The underwater structure of the blueway is a habitat for osprey and eaglets. Download a map here.
The skies are blue and the water is warm. What better way to experience the changing seasons and fall colors than on a gentle paddling trip?
Trails Dressed in Gold
Crisp days invite hikers and bikers to hit the trails. Miles of pathways wind through forests that transform into a tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. From gentle riverside strolls to heart-pumping climbs, there’s a trail for every pace—and every photo-worthy moment.
Classic Farm Fun
Of course, fall wouldn’t be complete without “down on the farm” traditions. Corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin patches offer timeless fun for families. For little ones, nothing compares to wandering a field to find that just-right pumpkin—a memory (and photo) to last a lifetime.
Blackburn Farm Pumpkin Patch– Lenoir City- hayrides, corn maze, and sweet treats.
Deep Well Farm in Lenoir City, TN- Hayrides, corn maze, and pumpkin patch
Echo Valley Corn Maze in Jefferson City- Pumpkin patch, pumpkin cannon, 3 mazes, one kid’s maze, and evening bonfires.
Kyker Farms Corn Maze– Sevierville- :Pumpkin patch, hayrides.
Maple Lane Maze in Greenback- Pumpkin patch, hayrides, special events, and a haunted barn.
Narramore Farms– Kingston- Harvest Festival- pumpkin patch, wagon rides, corn maze.
Oakes Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Corryton, TN will be opening their season on October 1. Corn Maze, pumpkin patch, and hayrides will be limited, so buy your tickets online.
All of these mazes are family-owned farms, so please respect the requirement to social distance and/or wear a mask when visiting these attractions.
Refuel with Local Flavor
After your outdoor adventures, treat yourself to local fare. Farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafés, and seasonal food festivals showcase the best of East Tennessee’s harvest. Think crisp apple cider, hearty soups, and sweet pumpkin treats that make the season taste just as good as it looks.
All these outdoor activities will surely work up an appetite. In the 9 Lakes, you can find hearty southern cuisine or playful takes on traditional fall fare. The bounty of the season is reflected in the menus of these eateries:
Located in what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Carvers Orchard, a family business has been growing apples for generations. Overlooking 40,000 apple trees is the Apple House restaurant legendary for its catfish and home-style breakfasts- the perfect place to fuel up before or after hiking the trails of the Smokies. Don’t forget to buy one of their legendary apple hand pies.
Motorcycle riders know that a planned ride needs a planned stop. In the fall, the Cherohala Skyway is a popular ride for leaf peeping and scenic waterfalls. A tasty platter of southern pit style BBQ is a nice ride break. Bradley’s Pit BBQ and Grill in Sweetwater has both outdoor and indoor seating. Stretch your legs and enjoy a meal. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner.
The regions’ food truck scene is an eclectic blend of fusion and tradition inspired by the personalities of their owners. A crisp fall afternoon paired with the aroma of grilled sausage is street food at its best. Chicago is known for its unique take on sausages and you experience a Vienna dog in Knoxville at Chicago Hotdog and Sausage Company. This tailgate has something for every taste.
Make This Fall Unforgettable
Whether you’re paddling calm waters, exploring golden trails, or enjoying a hayride under the big Tennessee sky, the 9 Lakes region is where fall memories are made. Adventure, tradition, and flavor come together here—waiting for you to discover.
