Asheville, North Carolina – Fall color is about to paint the North Carolina mountains in vibrant reds, oranges, and golds as leaf season begins its annual descent from the highest peaks to the valleys below. With elevation playing a key role, knowing when and where to go is essential for catching peak foliage at its most brilliant.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, elevations above 5,000 feet—such as Mount Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain, and Clingmans Dome—typically reach peak color between October 1 and October 9. These areas will show the earliest and most dramatic change, with cool nights accelerating leaf transition.
Between October 9 and 16, mid-elevations from 4,000 to 5,000 feet, including stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offer ideal conditions for foliage viewing. Bright color pockets will begin filling in across ridgelines and trails in popular spots like Beech Mountain and Waterrock Knob.
Peak color will drop to the 3,000 to 4,000-foot range between October 16 and 23, bringing vivid hues to Pisgah National Forest, Maggie Valley, and Banner Elk. Finally, lower elevations—Asheville, Cherokee, and Lake Lure—will likely see their best color between October 23 and November 6.
Those planning weekend drives or hikes should consider altitude when choosing routes. Weather can shift the timing slightly, especially if strong winds or early frosts hit the region. Visitors are urged to book accommodations early and travel safely on scenic byways, especially on fog-prone mornings in higher elevations.
Color progression will continue to be monitored through early November. Further updates will be issued if weather trends alter expected peak windows.
