Fall Color is arriving in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina in the Asheville area. Peak color along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in the Great Smoky Mountains is expected in mid October. So far in 2016, fall color is running about a week later than usual due to our recent warm weather. The first places to see color are the highest ridges, including Mt. Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain and Mt. Pisgah – with the most color during the second week of October.

For a week-by-week fall foliage forecast, go to www.romanticasheville.com/fall.htm. Also, see frequent photo reports at www.romanticasheville.com/fall-color-report.

The fall color season along the Blue Ridge Parkway will last about 4-5 weeks. While the highest sections of the Parkway will peak in early October, the views down into the valleys will last much of the month. The color show will conclude in the lowest valleys, including the Lake Lure and Chimney Rock areas and the foothills of Rutherford County.

Favorite things to do during the autumn season including hiking, waterfalls and scenic drives. There are many state and national parks to explore, including Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gorges State Park and DuPont State Forest. Get outdoors and enjoy!