Here Are the Best Times and Places to View North Carolina’s Fall Foliage in 2025

Every year, like thousands of others, we wonder: When do leaves change color in North Carolina? And then come exciting plans of driving the scenic byways from the mountains to the coast, stopping in between to taste the local flavor.

Luckily for us, our friends at SmokyMountains.com have provided us with an excellent resource! SmokyMountains.com utilizes a refined data model that relies on a combination of factors, including historical temperature and precipitation, forecasted temperature and precipitation, the type of tree commonly found in that geographic region, historical trends in the area, and user data.

With this handy North Carolina fall foliage map for 2025, let's look at some places for prime leaf peeping:

Kuwohi Observation Tower Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Folks, there's nothing higher in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park than the Kuwohi Observation Tower Trail, formerly known as Clingmans Dome. You'll have a stunning view from a staggering 6,643 feet when the colors first appear in late September or early October. We can see them from the handy observation tower, which is only a steep half-mile walk away, showcasing phenomenal views.

Craggy Pinnacle Summit, Blue Ridge Parkway (and all of the Parkway, for that matter)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular places to see the fall foliage in North Carolina. This trek is a bit of a challenge, but in only a mile, our eyes have access to the most stunning sight for fall in North Carolina. Find out more about this hike on the AllTrails Craggy Pinnacle Trail web page.

Nantahala Scenic Byway, Bryson City

Depending on which end we're on, the Nantahala Scenic Byway journey begins at Bryson City, traveling 45 miles to Marble, or vice versa. Take in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Nantahala River, and the Nantahala Gorge. The route is filled with exciting activities, including zipline trails, train rides, and rafting. More information about this adventure can be found in the North Carolina Byways Scenic Guidebook.

Half-Mile Farm by Old Edwards

And while you're up high in the state, consider Highlands for some more of the first peeks of autumn in North Carolina. Stay at Old Edwards Inn Half-Mile Farm, a luxury country inn surrounded by picturesque countryside that's an idyllic spot to soak in those fall colors. Read further on the Half-Mile Farm Facebook page.

The College Town Ride, Davidson

This creative route connects the lovely, rural Piedmont landscape, which peaks in mid-to-late October, through historic sites, including the Davidson College campus and other notable buildings, and a thriving downtown area. As one of the most peaceful towns in North Carolina, you might be inspired to pack up and move here after your visit!

Falls Lake State Recreation Area, Wake Forest

This serene space offers seven access areas to the reservoir. Spend the night at one of the 300+ campsites, ride a bike on the trails, and the fall also brings the cool migrating butterflies. For more information, visit the Falls Lake State Recreation Area web page.

Nags Head Woods Preserve, Kill Devil Hills

On the lovely coast, fall comes a little later. This 3.3-mile trail is so pretty in November. Get the details about the Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge Trail on the AllTrails website.

This barely scratches the surface of all of the amazing places in North Carolina to see the fall foliage. What's your favorite spot to collect the colors? Share this article with your fellow leaf peepers!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.

Feature Image: Zehra - stock.adobe.com