Leaf
Reports
Tips & Facts
Scenic Drives
Fall Color Leaf Guide
One of the most beautiful times of the year in Western North Carolina is Autumn. The
mountains seem to come alive with color. People travel from miles around just to catch a
glimpse of the splendor. Peak foliage viewing depends on many factors. The most
important factor is elevation. Trees of the same species, can peak weeks apart depending
on their location. Cooler slopes, that face the north, will peak much earlier than slopes
facing the sun. Certain species of trees also peak earlier than others. In addition, an
early frost and unusually wet or dry summers will affect the process differently.
Estimated Peak Viewing Times
|
Higher Elevations |
October 1 - 15 |
Lower Elevations |
October 15 - 31 |
Scenic Drives
Looking for that perfect autumn vista? Choose one of these scenic drives and wind
your way through the Western North Carolina mountains splashed with the hues of
autumn. You may also want to consider one of these craft excursions to understand
the beauty that captures the hearts and imaginations of the region's artists and
crafts
people.
Craggy Gardens
Craggy Gardens is a wonderful place for viewing the late summer wildflowers and
bright scarlet colored berries of the mountain ash. Bring a picnic lunch, hike some
of
the Parkways many trails and take in the panoramic views of the Blue Ridge
Mountains. To reach this area, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north from Asheville
for about 20 miles. (One way driving time: 45 minutes.)
Grandfather Mountain
From Asheville take I-40 to Hwy 70 at the Old Fort exit. Continue east on 70 to
221 north. Take 221 to Linville Falls area. Pass the Blue Ridge Parkway and at the
intersection of 181 and 105 look for a billboard directing you to Grandfather
Mountain. View the native animal habitats, enjoy hiking and picnicking and test your
courage on the mile high swinging bridge which also provides a great vantage point
for viewing autumns rich colors. (One way driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes.)
Mount Mitchell
Take the Blue Ridge Parkway north. Exit NC 128 from the Parkway to Mount
Mitchell State Park. This peak, the highest east of the Mississippi, provides
sweeping views of autumn color on the slopes below. In addition to expansive
views, the Park offers an observation tower, hiking trails, picnic areas, a natural
history museum, and a restaurant. (One way driving time: 45 minutes.)
Mount Pisgah/Graveyard Fields
Take the Blue Ridge Parkway south from Asheville toward Mount Pisgah, where
you will find picnic areas, hiking trails and a restaurant. Mount Pisgah was
originally
part of the 100,000-acre Biltmore Estate bought in the late 1800s by George W.
Vanderbilt. Continue on the Parkway to Graveyard Fields (milepost 418) where you
can take moderate 2.29 mile hike. Yellowstone Falls can also be seen from an
overlook on the Parkway. Return to Asheville on the Parkway heading north. (One
way driving time: 45 minutes.)
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