Fall is officially here (even if the weather doesn’t feel like it yet), which means it’s time for pumpkins, apples, crisper air, gorgeous hiking trails, and changing the leaves. There’s no better place to take in the beauty of the changing leaves than in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Although the mountain range extends from Georgia to Pennsylvania, many of its most majestic peaks and breathtaking views lie within the borders of the Tarheel State. So, if you’re looking for some of the most beautiful places to see fall colors in the Blue Ridge, check out these top spots around early October.
Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain, located near Linville, NC, is the highest peak in the eastern portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts like climbers and hikers. But, it’s also one of the best places to see fall colors in NC, thanks to its vast diversity of plants and trees. This variety of trees grows at different elevations in the area, with some parts reaching 2,000 feet and others reaching over 5,000 feet. You’ll see all the fall colors, including bright yellows and oranges, blood reds, rusty reddish-browns, and even deep hues of wine and purple.
Linville Falls
Just about a 20-minute drive from Grandfather Mountain is another beautiful spot for fall colors – Linville Falls. This breathtaking waterfall drops a dramatic 90 feet from the top to Linville Gorge below and is considered one of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina. Although you will have to get out of the car to capture the best views, there are two trails to choose from – one is strenuous, and one is easily accessible to almost everyone. There are plenty of overlooks you can stop along the way, including Chimney View and Erwin’s View, which are great places to take in the fall colors.
Mount Mitchell
After you finish at the orchard, it’s off to Mount Mitchell – the highest peak in the Eastern United States, where you can take 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery. Although you can hike to the summit of Mount Mitchell via one of several hiking trails, you can also take a scenic drive to the top and walk a short (0.25 mile) paved road to the observation deck, where you can see for about 100 miles in every direction.
Looking Glass Rock Overlook
Whether you’re looking toward the famous view of Looking Glass Rock from the Blue Ridge Parkway, or you decide to venture the trail that takes you to the top, you’re bound to have good views of the fall foliage either way. Although only professional climbers should attempt to climb the actual rock face, you can take the Looking Glass Rock Trail, a moderately difficult trail, for just over three miles, where you can enjoy fantastic views from the top.
Black Balsam Knob
The Black Balsam area has some of the most amazing bald mountains in the Blue Ridge and Southern Appalachians. It doesn’t mean you can’t still find some gorgeous views of the fall colors here. Although the summits are almost entirely treeless above 6,000 feet, you’ll still see beautiful views of the changing leaves in every direction you look. Plus, since you can hike for nearly three miles without trees obstructing the scenery, you can easily snap Instagram-worthy pics while you’re there!
The Orchard at Altapass
If you want to take your leaf-peeping tour of the Blue Ridge to the next level, make sure you stop in at the Orchard at Altapass, located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway between Linville Falls and Mount Mitchell. The Orchard at Altapass is not only a 105-year-old fully operational apple orchard but also serves as an Appalachian Cultural Center that celebrates the people and arts of the Blue Ridge Mountain area. In addition to taking in beautiful views of the surrounding colors, you can take a hayride, pick your own apples, enjoy live music, and sample lots of homemade goodies, including sandwiches, snacks, ice cream, and fudge.
