Natural History Wanderings

Great Smoky Mountains Association posted the following fall color update for  October 15

Fall colors are at or near peak at many locations in the Smokies. They are at peak at elevations above 4,000 feet throughout the park and on sunny ridges where early-changing trees like sourwood, blackgum, and chestnut oak predominate. At the lower elevations of the park some trees are still green, but colors should peak over the next two weeks.

Little River and Laurel Creek roads have excellent color right now. Cades Cove is surrounded by mountains that are nearly at peak. If you want to beat the crowds and enjoy fall splendor, try the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Foothills Parkway East and West, Heintooga Ridge and Balsam Mountain roads, and the Deep Creek and Greenbrier areas of the park. Suggested hikes include Little River Trail, Deep Creek Trail, Abrams Falls, and Hen Wallow Falls.