Fall Foliage ESP

Good news for fall color hunters! Early climate indicators have triggered predictions that fall 2008 could produce the most colorful leaf season in years in Western North Carolina.

Dr. Gary Walker gave us the scoop. He specializes in Cliff-Face Ecology and Plant Population Genetics at Appalachian State University...and, since we specialize in scenic drives, harvest events and budget-friendly fall adventures, we will defer to the expert on this one. Here's what he had to say:

“The environmental conditions leading into autumn are the best we’ve seen in years here in Western North Carolina, possibly setting the stage for the brightest leaf color show in recent history. Comparatively, the high country has had a wet summer and now temperatures are beginning to cool. Dry, cool weather from here on out and, ideally, an early frost in September would produce intense, widespread fall color at all elevations.”

We told you it was good news! To keep up with how the color forecast is shaping up, check back for weekly color reports here and at FallintheMountains.com, beginning September 22. We'll be gathering info from Dr. Gary and other foliage experts throughout the region to help you locate the best and brightest color from week to week.

One Stop Info & Savings Shop

Looking for great vacation deals? You can find them at the Asheville Visitor Center. The Visitor Center located at 36 Montford Avenue should be your first stop when you arrive in the Asheville area. Here you’ll find maps, coupons, hiking trail and attraction brochures, free Wi-fi, attraction tickets and a gift shop filled with Asheville merchandise.

Knowledgeable volunteers will help you find special deals and coupons, exciting attractions, unique shopping and independent restaurants. Volunteers are Asheville residents who love talking with visitors about their interests and making recommendations, so come on in for a chat. Best of all, there's even a concierge on hand to help with any last minute lodging needs.

Get up close and personal with Asheville by taking one several tours offered in the Visitor Center. Two fully narrated trolley tours leave from the center throughout the day taking you to many of the must-see destinations like Historic Biltmore Village, the River Arts District and downtown Asheville. One even allows you to hop on and off all day at designated stops so you can take a break for some shopping, try an only-in-Asheville beer, taste our world famous trout caviar on freshly baked bread or just try to save some gas.

Feeling more adventurous? See Asheville aboard a Segway with Moving Sidewalk Tours. Wes, your knowledgeable guide, will help train you on the Segway until you feel like you've been riding for years. Then you're off on an unforgettable experience through downtown. Don’t be surprised if you get lots of waves and thumbs up.

So come by and say hello. You may just discover that there's much more to Asheville than you realized. And don't worry, we'll help you plan that return trip too.