This Dreamy Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Fall Foliage In All Of North Carolina
With leaf season predicted to peak anywhere from October 12 through November 4, 2019 (depending on elevation and location) planning now on when and how to view the best fall foliage in North Carolina is advised. The Tar Heel State is home to stunning vistas, like Linn Cove Viaduct, and rolling foothills, like Hanging Rock, that each offer a unique perspective of the breathtaking autumns we’re so well known for. Follow this road trip map to discover some of the best things to do in fall in North Carolina and to make the most of our stunning leaf season.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
If you're in the Piedmont and unable to get to the mountains for leaf season, Hanging Rock State Park transports you straight there. Walk down to Lower Cascade Falls for some serene moments then hike to the top of Hanging Rock for breathtaking panoramic views while dangling your feet off rocky outcrops. Suggested viewing time is October 12 - 28.
Address: 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016
Theres no doubt about it, Linn Cove Viaduct is easily one of the most photographed and traveled Blue Ridge and Blue Ridge Parkway destinations come fall. This bridge dangles you off the edge of the mountains while providing stunning views with each twist and turn. Keep driving on the Blue Ridge to get new perspectives of Linn Cove, or visit nearby Grandfather Mountain afterwards. The peak fall foliage is expected from October 12 - 28.
While many think of fall as being surrounded by towering trees decorated in yellow, orange and red leaves; Roan Mountain provides a whole new perspective. Situated on the TN/NC border, this small mountain chain is home to grassy balds and rocky outcrops. It's a very 'Sound of Music' experience with panoramic fall colors all around you, but you're standing in a wide-open field. It's a very unique experience. Suggested viewing time to see the best fall colors is October 12 - 28.
The 'Grand Canyon of the East' is the perfect place to make the most of fall in spectacular fashion. Wiseman's View - two various stone overlooks leaning you over the gorge, are accessed VIA a short walking trail from the parking section. Make a long weekend out of it by pitching a tent nearby then visiting Linville Falls. Suggested viewing time is October 12 - 28.
Is there really a better place to make the most of fall views than the highest peak east of the Mississippi? With easy accessibility (a quick drive to the top and walk to the overlook) visiting and taking in fall colors is incredibly accessible but forever memorable. Suggested viewing time is October 12 - 28.
This state park not only features the famous 'Chimney' (and the 400 or so steps to the top) but the towering Hickory Nut Falls, miles of hiking trails, and unique rocky scenery dating back to the first formation of the Blue Ridge. Of course, for prime color viewing you won't mind that trek to the top of the Chimney. Suggested viewing time is October 12 -28.
Address: 742 Chimney Rock Park Road, Chimney Rock, NC, 28720
While you'll be doing plenty of driving in search of leaves, how about letting someone else take the wheel. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is perfect for a unique all day trip either on the Tuckasegee or Nantahala Gorge excursion. Make a long weekend of the journey by booking a room in Bryson City and exploring all that this quaint mountain town has to offer. Suggested viewing time is October 12 - 28.
Address: 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC, 28713
You don't have to be a native to know the Blue Ridge Parkway is painfully cramped come fall. A great alternative is Cherohala Skyway. Starting near Robbinsville, the skyway provides stunning views of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and perches you atop scenic vistas (and some of the oldest mountains in the Appalachian range) like Little Huckleberry Knob, Hooper’s Bald, Laurel Top and John’s Knob.
Read our full guide here. Suggested viewing time is October 12 -28.
I’m SO excited fall and foliage season are quickly approaching, but now it’s time to start planning where to see fall colors in North Carolina this year! How do you plan to view foliage this season? Where are some of your favorite places?
What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in North Carolina?
Peak leaf peeping in North Carolina is dependent upon many things and it’s always impossible to predict the exact date the leaves will begin their transformation. However, factoring in many of the expected variables, the Farmers’ Almanac predicts that in the regions of North Carolina that are more aligned with the mountain ranges, the peak dates should occur between October 12th and October 28th, 2019. For those seeking a rusty red, bright yellow, and even burnt orange landscape nearer to the North Carolina coast, the dates will be slightly later, with a peak occurring sometime between October 19th and November 4th, 2019.
What are the best places in North Carolina to see fall foliage?
Of course, the best places to see fall foliage in North Carolina are those that offer a long-range view of scenic mountains with color splashed all over their slopes. Virtually anywhere in Western North Carolina will have some place nearby that takes visitors high enough in elevation to enjoy the splendors of fall. For more specific suggestions of places to see fall colors in North Carolina, follow the Fall Foliage Road Trip in the article above.
What are the best North Carolina hikes to take in the fall?
Autumn is one of the best seasons for hiking in North Carolina, especially when the colors are peaking in the mountains! For some of the best mountain trails to see fall foliage, head to Chimney Rock State Park, Hanging Rock State Park, and of course, the highest peak east of the Mississippi: Mt. Mitchell. Additionally, all of the trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway will immerse you in the bright colors of fall – if you time your hike for the peak fall foliage dates.
Emory was born and raised in North Carolina. She enjoys writing, photography, filmmaking, travel, wine and cheese. You can find more of her work on emoryrakestraw.com
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