Natural History Wanderings

The Great Smoky Mountains Association has a new fall color report for October 10, 2014

Fall color season is continuing its slow progression in the Great Smoky Mountains. The very highest elevations are showing some impressive golds from yellow birch and American beech trees and a few nice pockets of reds from maples. Overall though, it looks like the peak of color in the Smokies will be on the late side this year. At the higher elevations above 4,000’, this is predicted to be October 12-20.

Along Little River Road, and elsewhere at the lower elevations, early-changing species like blackgum, sourwood, dogwood, sumac, black walnut, buckeye, poison ivy, and Virginia creeper are showing nice color.This is a great time to take a drive on Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Balsam Mountain Road. Little River and Laurel Creek roads also offer pleasant fall scenery. A hike to Andrews Bald on Forney Ridge Trail or along the Appalachian Trail toward Silers Bald would be time well spent. Although there are some cloudy days in the forecast, the moody light often enhances the quality of colors to both the eye and camera.

Look for peak color at the lower and mid elevations at the very end of October and into early November. The warmer, wet weather over the weekend should keep the pace of change on the slow side. Remember, though, it’s much better to be early for the peak of colors in the Smokies, than late.

See older reports at Fall Leaf Color Updates | Great Smoky Mountains Association