Autumn Weekend in Gatlinburg

We don't really have any more travel plans for the rest of the year after returning from Malaysia but the parents-in-law had a week-long stay at Gatlinburg and invited us to go over for the weekend. The last time I visited Gatlinburg was with the university back in Feb 2009, and we thought this would be a good time to revisit and catch the end of the fall foliage at the Great Smoky Mountains. Thanks to the PIL for the free accommodation! :)

4-6 November 2016: Autumn Color in the Smokies - Gatlinburg

Nov 4: Drove 4.5 hours up to Gatlinburg after work on Friday to meet up with the parents. The 1-bedroom villa at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa was well equipped with a full kitchen and ample space, perfect for the 4 of us. Best of all, great view of the smoky mountains from the balcony.

Nov 5 (Sat): The itinerary for the day was to drive through the mountains. Thanks Donny for driving us around all day. Since we were there late in the season, the leaves at the higher elevation areas have already fallen but fortunately, there are still some colors at the lower elevation areas such as Newfound Gap Road and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, all within close proximity to Gatlinburg town.

Stumbled upon the beautiful Chimneys Picnic Area along Newfound Gap Road.

Beautiful creek full of boulders


Huge log perfect for photos. :)



So pretty!! Oh this is actually a washroom...haha!!

 
I was busy being the photographer while waiting for the rest to use the washroom.


Love the colors of Fall!

Panoramic views of the smokies.

And of course, photos to prove we were there...lol! :P

Back in the crowded Gatlinburg town for a free tour of the Sugarlands Distillery. 

Dinner at Cherokee Grill & Steakhouse. Had our dinner the night before at the Smoky Mountain Brewery.

Mom bought this jigsaw puzzle and we completed it within one night, while watching the Alabama game. :P

One last pic to wrap up this short but relaxing weekend trip. :)