UPDATED FOR FALL 2023
It’s almost time for Leaf-Peeping. We’re lucky to get to enjoy fall foliage and color season for several weeks thanks to the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains’ many 6,000-foot peaks. Wondering where and when to see fall foliage?
Here’s your 2023 guide to peak fall colors in NC and Leaf Peeping 2023
When it comes to what drives that fall color we all know and love, elevation and weather are the key factors. Elevation is key to early leaf color, starting at the highest peaks and working its way down. Cold, sunny weather speeds up the color changes and warm, wet weather slows things down. To help you start planning your trip to leaf peep, we’ve put together a list of places to visit that coincide with leaves changing. As expected, color changes are a little unpredictable, so check online before going.
Here’s a great map from SmokeyMountains.com that shows the leaf color progression by week, starting in September and going thru to late November. Peak color for us is mid to late October.
Please check back for updates before you head out for viewing and for tons of info on your visit, please head to the BEST website for the scoop on the NC Mountains, our friends at www.RomanticAsheville.com.
According to this year’s map, partial fall color could arrive to the NC/TN border the week of October 3.
Early October starts at 6,000 ft.
Graveyard Fields
Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Graveyard Fields is under 6,000 ft but because of the unique plant species, you will find changing leaves earlier in the season which means signs of fall in late September.
Rough Ridge
This beautiful hike gives you amazing views of Grandfather Mountain and Linn Cove Viaduct, with distant views into the Piedmont. The higher you hike, the better views get. The total elevation climb from the parking area is 480 ft.
Mid October Color around 4,000 – 5,000 ft.
Grandfather Moutain
Another early bird when it comes to leaf season thanks to its high elevation. Drive up or hike to the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge for beautiful views all around the mountains from the summit. On your way back down, be sure to stop by Mildred’s Grill for a bite to eat and then walk over to the park’s wildlife habitats to see the black bears, or head to nearby Banner Elk for lunch and easy strolls.
Beech Mountain
At an elevation of 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in the eastern USA, making it an early location in the fall color season usually by the first week of October. Expect a variety of things to do and see, including hiking, shopping, dining and more. From here, Romantic Asheville recommends you head south to head to the Waterrock Knob and Black Balsam areas for great color views.
Mount Pisgsah
Just 26 miles southwest of downtown Asheville is where you can find even more breathtaking views. The popular 1.5-mile (one-way) strenuous hike to the 5,721-ft summit will have scenic fall views around the second week of October. The hike is in the forest and will get a bit rocky in the second half, so wear good shoes and plan accordingly.
Shadow of the Bear
For unique scenic views, head to Shadow of the Bear, where you can see a bear-like shadow come out from hibernation for 30 minutes daily (on sunny days) between 5:30-6:15 p.m. from mid-October through early November. While you’re there, check out fun things to do in Jackson County to get the most out of your trip.
Mid to Late October Color Around 4,000 – 2,000 ft.
Mountainous areas surrounding Asheville with 3,000-4,000 feet elevation show the most color the third week of October. If you’re looking for an easy scenic drive, head to Blue Ridge Parkway.
Looking Glass Rock
The Looking Glass Rock Trail, located off the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, is an extremely popular and very walkable hike (from the Brevard area). The trail climbs about 1,700 ft. in just over three miles, but the views from the top are well worth it. Head down around the third week of October for ultimate fall color.
Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway
Hiking not your thing? Don’t worry, this 76-mile mountain drive will give you all the fall views you need. The Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway is filled with beautiful mountain scenery along with rich history in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can drive a popular 15 -mile section, or drive the entire winding route and stop at the many places along the way. It’s a great way to explore Pisgah National Forest, and places like Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and Looking Glass Rock.
Bryson City
Spend a day or two adventuring in Bryson City, approximately 70 miles southwest of Asheville. With much of the county being the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s a lot to do for nature lovers, including waterfalls, hiking, rafting, and of course food and shopping. Head there the third week of October for the most fall foliage which will make for stunning views.
End of October to Early November When It Ends
Biltmore Estate
We never miss an opportunity to visit the Biltmore Estate, but this time of year, it’s easy to go and not solely focus on the home. When the leaves are changing the property is absolutely gorgeous and definitely worth the short drive to Asheville. Be sure to block out a good amount of time to explore the property and take in all the beautiful mountain views.
Lake Lure
From the lake you can see surrounding leaves and the reflections on the water towards the beginning of November. The lake is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains in the Hickory Nut Gorge. From certain points you can spot Chimney Rock which is another scenic spot to visit this time of year.
South Mountains
About 70 miles from Asheville lie the South Mountains, a great place to enjoy nature. Known as a “jewel” of a state park in the mountains according to Romantic Asheville, you can find elevation of 3,000 feet, along with a waterfall dropping 60 feet and more than 40 miles of trails. To get beautiful fall foliage, visit during late October to early November this year.
Heading outdoors to check out the leaves?
We’d love to see where you end up. Tag us on Instagram @ScoopCharlotte when you share your adventures.
