Is there anything better than fall hiking? Just as the temperature is nearing perfection, leaves begin changing colors, and the foliage drops, you get clear, crisp views of the Southeastern countryside from forest-covered ridges to its majestic waterfalls. There is no question that Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas have some of the most colorful fall leaves, and what better way to experience their beauty than a hike? While it was difficult to narrow down the list, we’ve picked three locations that are a must-visit this fall season, along with a nearby favorite cabin that is currently on the market.
Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the jaw-dropping peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains would make even avid mountain-westerners swoon. Which is why two of our top picks are within this colorful mountain range
1. Alum Cave Trail — Mount Le Conte, Tennessee
Located south of Gatlinburg and near North Carolina’s border, there is no shortage of wonders worth seeing and experiencing. It may take you the better part of a day to summit the range’s third-highest peak at 6,593 feet. Via the Alum Cave Trail, you will pass through a ‘cave’ that’s actually a concave bluff, but you’ll see why it is the most hiked trail in the Smokies.
2. Laurel Falls Trail — Cove Mountain, Tennessee
Next up is another Great Smoky Mountain trail, and it’s hard to say which is prettier, so we won’t even attempt it. The Laurel Falls Trail is considered an “easier” hike, which is perfect for when you don’t want to spend the entire day hiking but still want the panoramic views Tennessee has to offer. The hike is 2.4 miles out-and-back and will take you roughly an hour and 6 minutes to complete.
Photos courtesy of Engel & Völkers Knoxville
Photos courtesy of Engel & Völkers Knoxville
4821 Highland Place Way, Pigeon Forge, TN — Listed at $2,000,000
Spanning across 3960 square feet, this impressive cabin is perfect for hosting each of your family members and more. The residence has 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, a private indoor pool with a waterfall, a theatre room, and multiple decks for everyone to take in the winter sunsets — a glass of wine in hand. Located in Pigeon Forge, you’re immersed in the Smoky Mountains while a short distance from everything else Tennessee has to offer.
3. Whiteside Mountain, North Carolina
Located just between Highlands and Cashiers, NC, and in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, you will find the Whiteside Mountain trail. The hike is 2.5 miles round trip and moderately rough with its hilly terrain. The trail offers spectacular 700 ft high cliff walls. On clear days, from the highest summit, you can see South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. Pro tip: if you look close enough, you can spot peregrine falcons that nest in the mountain’s cliffs.
Photos courtesy of Engel & Völkers Highlands Cashiers
Photos courtesy of Engel & Völkers Highlands Cashiers
87 Salt Rock Ct Highlands, NC 28741 — Listed at $4,250,000
After an extensive renovation, down to the insulation, this impressive 4-bedroom/ 4-bathroom residence is a staycation dream. Stunning views from the private porch overlook Shortoff Mountain and Eyebrow Ridge, so you don’t need to wander far to admire the foliage. Outfitted with a private wine cellar, a guest cottage, and handcrafted solid white oak doors, the details in this home will take your breath away. Nestled right in the mountains, this cabin is nothing short of impressive.
As always, if you need any expertise jumping into today’s real estate market, we are only a phone call away.
