The fall foliage begins to appear in mid-September at the higher elevations. Keep in mind: that elevation is also responsible for rapid changes in the weather pattern, meaning you should pack layers no matter when you visit. Summer is hot with temperatures in the 80s, but normally less humid than surrounding areas due to the city's high elevation. July is the busiest month of the summer season, while weekends in October draw the largest crowds in the fall. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are summer (June, July and August) and the month of October, when the fall foliage is at its zenith. The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and October.
