The rich colors of fall are getting ready to start display in North Carolina’s mountains. The changing hues have been known to captivate those who see them, and this year promises a captivating show! You can expect everything from deep reds mixed with vibrant oranges or yellows to make for something different every year, yet still special. Here is the 2023 Leaf Peeping Color Forecast for Black Mountain, Asheville, Biltmore & More
Our favorite websites that are updated regularly with current fall color conditions:
- FOLIAGE NETWORK
View a weekly updated southeast regional map - GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
One of the fun things I love is seeing the daily photos of the current fall color along the upper levels of the Blue Ridge Parkway! - ASU FALL COLOR GUY
Includes weekly fall color reports written by Appalachian State University’s Department of Biology.
Current Forecast as of 09/12/2023 but remember Mother nature is always subject to change!
September 25 – October 2
At elevations reaching 6,000 feet and above, sporadic and subdued autumn colors will emerge. The vistas from these heights will predominantly feature lush greenery, as the lower elevations dominate the scenery.
During this period, early fall foliage is expected in Graveyard Fields and Rough Ridge, both are nestled along The Blue Ridge Parkway. Graveyard Fields, renowned for its vibrant display, is often among the first areas in the entire Blue Ridge Mountains to showcase autumn hues, with vivid reds and oranges gracing the landscape at its peak.
October 2 – 9
The peak of fall foliage arrives for locations situated above 5,000 feet. This encompasses renowned spots like Clingmans Dome, Grandfather Mountain, Mount Mitchell, Waterrock Knob, Graveyard Fields (the initial site to transition on the Parkway), and Beech Mountain, NC.
Additionally, this period embraces the higher elevations of The Blue Ridge Parkway (between Asheville, NC, and Cherokee) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
October 9 – 16
The zenith of fall colors unfolds at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet. This includes nearly all locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway and most higher elevation zones within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Don’t miss the breathtaking views at Linn Cove Viaduct, which radiates with autumn beauty.
October 16 – 23
Peak foliage time begins to descend to lower elevations, spanning from 3,000 to 4,000 feet. This enchanting phase encompasses places like Pisgah National Forest, home to attractions such as Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls, Dill Falls, Wildcat Falls, and numerous other waterfalls.
Other noteworthy areas during this timeframe include Linville Gorge, Nantahala Gorge, and charming towns like Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, Maggie Valley, and Waynesville, NC.
October 23 – 30
At elevations from 2,000 to 3,000 feet, peak foliage graces various cities, including Black Mountain, Swannanoa, Asheville, Brevard, Bryson City, Cherokee, Hendersonville, and more. Notable destinations encompass Dupont State Forest, the elegant Biltmore Estate, and the picturesque Cades Cove.
October 30 – November 6
Finally, the culmination of fall colors arrives at the remaining lower elevations, covering places like Charlotte, Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, and other lower-elevation mountain areas. It’s the grand finale of nature’s colorful display.
