Fall Hikes, Fiery Foliage and Holiday Gatherings at Norris Lake

When the leaves start to turn in East Tennessee, Norris Lake changes. The boats thin out, the water goes still and the hills around every cove light up in red, orange and gold. Then November and December arrive, and the lake house becomes the perfect place to bring everyone home for the holidays.

Here's how to make the most of fall hiking, foliage and holiday gatherings at Great Escape Norris Lake.

When to see the best fall color

Fall color around Norris Lake usually peaks from late October into early November. The exact timing shifts each year with the weather, so plan a long weekend in that window and you're likely to catch the hills at their brightest.

The best part? You don't have to go far to see it. The vaulted ceilings and large windows at Great Escape frame the lake from every floor. Our three covered decks are the perfect place for morning coffee as the fog lifts off the water.

Fall hikes near Norris Lake

Cool, dry days are made for hiking. A few favorites within driving distance of the house:

• Cove Lake State Park. About 30 minutes away, with easy, flat walking trails along the water. Great for families and little legs.

• Norris Dam State Park. About an hour away, with wooded trails, overlooks and a look at the historic dam that created Norris Lake.

• Cumberland Trail. Sections of this long-distance trail run through the Cumberland Mountains near LaFollette, with rocky overlooks and big fall views for more experienced hikers.

• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. A longer day trip, with river gorges, arches and some of the most dramatic scenery in the region.

Hiking tips for fall: dress in layers, start early because the days are shorter, and bring a headlamp just in case. Check trail conditions and park hours before you go.

See the foliage from the water

Some of the best views of fall color come from the lake itself. Take the kayaks out from our dock on a calm morning and paddle the cove. The trees reflect off the water, and you'll often have it all to yourself.

Come home to the hot tub

After a day on the trail, the hot tub deck is calling. There's no better way to rest tired legs than a soak under a clear, cool November sky.

Thanksgiving at the lake

Thanksgiving is all about the table, and Great Escape was made for big ones.

• Two full kitchens. The turkey can roast in one while the sides come together in the other. No more juggling oven time.

• Room for everyone. 9 bedrooms, including 5 king bedrooms, 2 master suites and a kids' bunk room with 4 full-size bunks.

• 5 full bathrooms. Even with a full house, mornings stay calm.

• Three living rooms. Football in one, a movie in another and conversation in the third.

• A game room. Foosball and air hockey tournaments make the time between dinner and pie go fast.

Not in the mood to shop and cook for 20? Ask about our concierge services, including grocery delivery and catering.

Christmas and New Year's on Norris Lake

December at the lake feels like a holiday card. Picture the whole family together in one house, with lake views from the windows, a movie night in the living room and hot cocoa on the deck.

A few ideas to make it special:

• Bring your own ornaments and decorate a tabletop tree together

• Hold a family gift exchange in the great room

• Plan a holiday movie marathon from our movie library

• Take a day trip to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg for holiday lights and shows

• Ring in the New Year from the hot tub

For families who live in different states, a lake house in the middle of the Tennessee hills makes a great meeting point. Everyone gets their own space, and nobody has to host in their own home.

Work a few days, stay a few more

With high-speed fiber internet, it's easy to turn a holiday weekend into a longer stay. Answer a few emails with a lake view, then join the family for a hike in the afternoon.

Reserve your fall or holiday dates

Fall weekends and holiday weeks are some of the first dates to go, especially for a home that sleeps a large group. Check availability for November and December or book Great Escape Norris Lake on Airbnb. Planning a big Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering? Contact us and we'll help with groceries, catering and anything else you need.