Forecasters say fall foliage in the mountains may not be quite as
spectacular this year because of abundant rainfall. But leaf peepers in Hot Springs will still find plenty of blazing orange, red
and yellow vistas in the weeks to come. Here’s a condensed guide on
what to expect.

Depends on the tree

The peak color change time in WNC traditionally is in the middle of
October, although the sourwood and tulip poplar trees change earlier,
in late September to early October, with deep red and yellow leaves,
respectively. Next come the deep purple color of Bradford pears and red
of dogwoods.

Mid-October brings the red, yellow and orange of maples, and the yellow
of birches and cherries, followed in late-October by the yellow and red
of oaks and sweetgums, yellow of hickories and bronze of beeches, and a
variety of other color shades in the vines, shrubs and smaller trees
beneath the forest canopy

When and where to look

October 3-14: Highest elevations north of Asheville above 5,000 feet
show the most color, especially in the Mount Mitchell, Craggy Gardens
and Grandfather Mountain areas. See the former Land of Oz Theme Park on
Oct 3-4.

October
11-21: Color will increase in elevations greater than 4,000 feet,
including the Mount Pisgah, Black Balsam, Devil's Courthouse, Waterrock
Knob and Graveyard Fields, southwest of Asheville on the Blue Ridge
Parkway. It will also be peak color in the Highlands area, with plenty
of waterfalls to enjoy, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

October 18-27: Many of the surrounding mountains around Asheville show
plenty of color, especially in the 3,000-4,000 foot elevation range.
Take the Parkway north or south from Asheville. A great hike would be
Looking Glass Rock or Cradle of Forestry.

October 24-November 3: The city of Asheville (2,000 foot elevation)
shows the brightest colors this week, along with areas around
Hendersonville and Brevard. This would be the perfect week for a
waterfall hike in Dupont State Forest or leisurely walk at the NC
Arboretum. This is also the peak leaf color for Biltmore Estate.

October 27-November 7: The color show will conclude in the Chimney Rock
area (elevation of 1,300 feet). Ride to the top of Chimney Rock or take
a boat tour on Lake Lure.

source: romantic
asheville