Natural History Wanderings

Romantic Asheville has the following

Blue Ridge Parkway & Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast 2016

The number one question is: “When is the peak color?” No matter when you plan an autumn visit in October or early November, you can take a short drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway or other mountain roads to find the best color of fall leaves. Elevation and weather are the biggest factors in the color show. Leaves begin their color change on the highest peaks and gradually work down to the lowest elevations. An early frost speeds up the show and warm weather prolongs it.

Where to Find Color Week-by-Week

• October 2-9: Highest elevations north of Asheville above 5,000 feet show the most color, especially in the Mount Mitchell, Craggy Gardens, Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain, Rough Ridge, Waterrock Knob and Graveyard Fields areas.

• October 8-16: Color will increase in elevations greater than 4,000 feet, including the areas near Mount Pisgah, Black Balsam, and Devil’s Courthouse southwest of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It will also be peak color in the Highlands area, including Whiteside Mountain with plenty of waterfallsto enjoy, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including hikes to Alum Cave and Chimney Tops.
• October 14-23: Many of the surrounding mountains around Asheville show plenty of color, especially in the 3,000-4,000 foot elevation range. Take the Parkway north or south from Asheville. A great hike in Pisgah National Forest would be Looking Glass Rock or Cradle of Forestry. North of Asheville, head to Linville Gorge with hikes to the top of Table Rock and Hawksbill Mountain. West of Asheville, Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge will shine.
• October 20-29: The city of Asheville (2,000 feet elevation) shows the brightest colors, along with areas around Hendersonville and Brevard. This is the perfect time for a waterfall hike in DuPont State Forestor leisurely walk at the NC Arboretum. This is also the peak leaf color for Biltmore Estate.
• October 25-November 5: The color show concludes in the Chimney Rock area (elevation of 1,300 feet). Ride to the top of Chimney Rock or take a boat tour on Lake Lure. Also best color at Lake Jamesand South Mountains State Parks, along with Rutherford County.
• November 1-8: The foothills around Rutherfordton and the Tryon Foothills Wine Country will be peak.