Brilliant Fall Colors as Foliage Peaks in Asheville

Leaf season is at its peak in Asheville while lower elevations are just beginning to see signs of the annual show. In Asheville, red oaks have joined the parade, looking absolutely gorgeous with a deep red hue. Japanese maples are far from subtle with leaves ranging from orange to crimson. Beeches and hickories continue to display a golden yellow, while dogwoods and sourwoods hold strong with their own shade of red. Now is a great time to visit because not only can you see great color, but you can also get into the early holiday spirit as annual events like Christmas at Biltmore begin this weekend.

Choice Viewing Locations

Two excellent places to view fall color in Asheville are Biltmore Estate and the North Carolina Arboretum, due to the exceptional diversity of plant life, seasonally landscaped gardens and stunning scenic vistas. The Arboretum's Director of Horticulture Alison Arnold notes that many colors are brightening the landscape, including brilliant reds from maple trees, blazing oranges from black gum and persimmon trees, and glittering gold from a variety of shrubs and perennials. Maples are showing a full spectrum of reds, yellows and oranges. The beautyberry shrubs have turned royal purple, basking in the bronze orange of the dawn redwood and bald cypress.

Late Bloomers

Lower elevations are privy to reaching peak late in the leaf season. At Chimney Rock Park, located in the scenic Hickory Nut Gorge, the foliage is expected to last through mid-November. Chimney Rock offers an incredible vantage point of Lake Lure and Bills Mountain, both surrounded by spectacular fall color. Lake James, also set at the foot of the mountains, is another great place to view the foliage.

Scenic Joyrides

Experience a brilliant spectrum of fall color on the drive to Chimney Rock along Highway 74. Another fun road that is bursting with fall color is the Asheville corridor of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Even at higher elevations where leaves have fallen, the absence of leaves makes for stunning views of the foliage at lower elevations. Nearby Black Mountain is also at its peak, with incredible yellows and vivid reds.

Updates

Foliage experts and attractions from around the region are providing weekly updates for leaf peepers. Check back soon for updates on where to find the best color in Western North Carolina. And, as you’re out this fall in the Asheville area, share your fall photos with us.

Insider Tips

Fall Harvest Tailgate Flavors of the Week: At the

markets this week you will find fresh squashes, potatoes, mixed greens, pastured pork and lamb, free-range chicken, grass-fed beef, and farm-raised rainbow trout.

Budget Tip: You don't have to spend a lot of money to have an enriching vacation experience in the Asheville area. In fact, you can enjoy time with your family and friends this fall at many area attractions without spending a penny. For more information, check out our free fall activities.