Spectacular Fall Colors Come to the Blue Ridge Mountains
Golden and crimson mountains stand out against sapphire blue skies. Even on a rainy day, the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding landscape stand out, ablaze with colors from millions of trees. Fall in North Carolina is an experience visitors return to again and again. With gradual elevation changes from the Foothills and the Central Mountains to the forests of the Far West to the High Country, the colors gradually change across our region throughout September and November.
Hundreds of miles of scenic byways and backcountry roads wind through the region, with overlooks and turnouts offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Along the way, farm stands offer all things apple, including cider, donuts, and jams. Pumpkins, squashes, and corn are abundant seasonal offerings. Locals and leaf peepers seek out corn mazes, hay rides, and fall festivals, making Western North Carolina the place to be when the air turns crisp and the leaves fall.
How Can There Be This Much Color?
Elevation and cooler nights dictate Nature’s timeline for foliage changes. Leaf colors emerge as chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the underlying yellow, orange, and red pigments. Fall color appears first in the reds of sourwoods, dogwoods, and red maples. The yellow, orange, and red of walnut, tulip poplar, and other maples, beech, and birch show up next. The season ends with the darker reds and browns of oaks. The show progresses from the High Country down the Parkway into the Balsams and the Nantahala mountains.
Check out these links to scout out the best shows through the peak weeks in October.
NC State College of Natural Resources
Explore Asheville Fall Forecast
See the Fall Colors On the Road and On the Trail
Blue Ridge Parkway fall foliage is one of the most popular experiences for visitors and residents alike that want to enjoy the incredible colors of autumn and beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Some of these sites are featured in spectacular photography on romanticasheville.com, shared with us by permission of Mark File.
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Waterfalls
- Grandfather Mountain
- Chimney Rock
- North Carolina Arboretum
Consider taking the less traveled roads, and you can escape some crowds.
