Happy Autumn, Leaf-Peepers! While it might not feel like fall just yet, leaf color has already begun in the surrounding higher elevations. Keep in mind that weather patterns may slightly alter the timing, but no matter where you end up you’re sure to find great views and fun times.
Week of September 23 – September 29
- Areas to visit: Highest elevations, including Mount Mitchell, Craggy Gardens, and Grandfather Mountain
- What to expect: At elevations above 5,000 feet, trees like yellow birch, American beech, and mountain ash will begin turning bright yellow and orange. Early hints of red from sugar maples may also appear.
Week of September 30 – October 6
- Areas to visit: Blue Ridge Parkway (north of Asheville), Black Balsam Knob, Roan Mountain, and Graveyard Fields
- What to expect: The colors intensify in the 4,000 to 5,000-foot range, with deep reds from the sugar maples, golden hues from birches, and brilliant yellows from tulip poplars. Blue Ridge Parkway at higher elevations will be ablaze with early color, offering panoramic views.
Week of October 7 – October 13
- Areas to visit: Pisgah National Forest, Max Patch, Craggy Gardens (mid-elevations), and Mount Pisgah
- What to expect: Mid-elevations between 3,500 and 4,500 feet are now in full swing, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows spreading throughout. The Appalachian Trail areas, particularly around Max Patch, offer stunning ridge-top views with a burst of autumn color.
Week of October 14 – October 20
- Areas to visit: Downtown Asheville, Biltmore Estate, DuPont State Forest, and Lake Lure
- What to expect: Lower elevations (2,000 to 3,000 feet) are now in full color, with reds and oranges from sugar maples and dogwoods, along with golden hues from poplars. This is also prime time to visit DuPont State Forest, known for its waterfalls and stunning fall scenery.
Week of October 21 – October 27
- Areas to visit: Chimney Rock State Park, Lake James, Hendersonville, and Weaverville
- What to expect: By late October, lower elevations surrounding Asheville will be peaking. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Chimney Rock with Lake Lure’s reflections of autumn leaves. Weaverville’s rolling hills and nearby farms will be bursting with color.
Week of October 28 – November 3
- Areas to visit: Flat Rock, Tryon, Brevard, and Asheville neighborhoods
- What to expect: The colors will begin to fade at higher elevations, but Asheville itself and nearby areas will still have plenty of fall color. This is a great time for a relaxing drive through Asheville’s historic neighborhoods or to explore Brevard and its famous waterfalls.
Week of November 4 – November 10
- Areas to visit: Lower elevations like Lake Jocassee and Table Rock State Park
- What to expect: The final touches of fall can be seen in the farthest southern and western parts of the region, with some lingering yellows and oranges in the lower valleys and foothills.