October 24, 2017

2017 Fall Foliage in Asheville – Late Color

The Blue Ridge Parkway in the Fall
Fall in Asheville has been simply gorgeous so far. Though we can’t say we’re surprised – the colors of autumn in Asheville always have us in awe. But this year has been different. 2017 has been overall warm and rather rainy, which fall color forecasters say is the perfect combination for a vibrant fall landscape. In fact, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information , 2016 was Asheville’s warmest year to date… and so far the 2017 recordings are coming close. Luckily for those of us who anticipate the fall foliage of Asheville, a drier soil means brighter fall color!

Find Peak Color In Asheville – October and NovemberFind Peak Color In Asheville – October and November
As it is the end of October, we’ve officially said goodbye to summer and welcomed fall in Asheville with open arms. The cool fall air has rolled in through the Blue Ridge Mountains and painted our land vibrant hues of yellow, red, orange and gold. We’re extremely lucky to experience these color changes for over a month in Asheville, due to our elevation and climate. So while this does give you a bit more time to seek peak color, if you are planning to take a trip to observe peak fall foliage in Asheville, the time is now! Here are a few of our favorite spots to experience the colors of late October and early November.As it is the end of October, we’ve officially said goodbye to summer and welcomed fall in Asheville with open arms. The cool fall air has rolled in through the Blue Ridge Mountains and painted our land vibrant hues of yellow, red, orange and gold. We’re extremely lucky to experience these color changes for over a month in Asheville, due to our elevation and climate. So while this does give you a bit more time to seek peak color, if you are planning to take a trip to observe peak fall foliage in Asheville, the time is now! Here are a few of our favorite spots to experience the colors of late October and early November.

Rough Ridge Hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Rough Ridge is by far one of the best spots to see brilliant fall color, and one of the coolest peaks, dare we say, ever! Tucked in the Pisgah National Forest, the farther you hike on this trail, the better the views become. There is a boardwalk as well as benches and several large boulders along the trail. These natural boulders are such a beautiful and relaxing way to sit down and take in the views. Speaking of views, make your way to the incredible overhang peak and you will be able to see Grandfather Mountain, Linn Cove Viaduct, and even the Piedmont! Unfortunately, pets are prohibited on this section of the Tanawha Trail – but the spectacular fall colors you will experience make it absolutely be worth it.

Graveyard Fields Hike & Waterfalls
The Graveyard Fields, which got its name from the tree stumps that cover the land resembling gravestones in a graveyard, is one of the best hikes in Asheville to experience the fall foliage. The whole loop is about four miles and includes two gorgeous waterfalls. The upper falls are our favorite during the fall! Peak color at the Graveyard Fields is mid-October; so get out there while you can!Graveyard Fields Hike & Waterfalls

Table Rock
Table Rock has a reputation for being one of the best climbs in the southeastern United States. It is also one of the most recognized peaks in the Blue Ridge Mountains, overlooking the Linville Gorge. We recommend this hike for the outdoorsman who is a little more advanced or looking for a challenge. While the whole loop is only about 2.2 miles, there are some steep climbs that can get a bit strenuous. But the journey is worth it when you reach the 3,950-ft. peak! As the foliage is currently changing, from the top of Table Rock you’ll see the Gorge’s green forests splashed with crimson and gold.

Fall Foliage Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Right now, sassafras, magnolias, birches, and witch hazels are peaking. So if you venture down the Blue Ridge Parkway this weekend in Asheville, you’ll see colors of orange, red and yellow splashed along this scenic drive. Red maples too are beginning to turn color, while sugar maples are already losing their leaves. Fall color can be found all along the Blue Ridge Parkway this month and into mid-November depending on your elevation. For some of the absolute best views, stop at these miles markers along the Blue Ridge Parkway:

  • Milepost 350.4: Green Knob Overlook. The hike to the Green Knob Lookout Tower is only about a half-mile and the current colors are spectacular.
  • Milepost 355.4: Mt Mitchell. It’s a short and simple hike on a ¼-mile paved trail to the Observation Deck atop Mt Mitchell. Mt Mitchell is the highest peak in the eastern United States! So, bring a jacket and a picnic for a brilliant 360-degree view from the top.
  • Milepost 451.2: Waterrock Knob. If you’re searching for the best place to see the peak fall foliage combined with the colors of a brilliant sunset, then take a hike up to Waterrock Knob off the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are prime picnic spots nearby the large parking area. But if you hike to the top of the 6,292-peak, you’ll experience one of the best sunsets North Carolina has to offer!

So, if you’re planning to come to Asheville this fall, the time to see peak color is now! As we said before, our city will be vibrantly covered for a little over a month, so book your trip soon so you don’t miss out! Regardless if you’re visiting Asheville specifically for the color or not, you won’t be able to miss its beauty every time you go outdoors.

Unique Asheville Experience – Book Your Stay at one of The Carolina Jewel Luxury Properties
The scenery of fall color and the cozy local atmosphere in Asheville makes for the perfect getaway for family and friends. The Carolina Jewel is a historic “gem” in the beautiful North Carolina Mountains where you will find a blend of history, nature, and convenience.

If you are looking for the ultimate Asheville experience, spend a weekend at any one of our beautiful properties.

T he Carolina Jewel Tree House - Custom built and nestled among the Reems Creek Valley forest, it is unlike anything else you have ever seen. Each season is different in the Tree House, but fall is a kaleidoscope of colors! And with the Blue Ridge Parkway just 5 miles from this Asheville Tree House, you’ll be able to explore all the peak fall foliage effortlessly!

The Carolina Jewel Farm House – Our main farm house is a beautiful five-bedroom rental property perfect for large groups. All suites are private and elegantly themed after precious jewels. During your stay in the Carolina Jewel Farm House, you’ll be able to enjoy the peak fall foliage of Asheville from one of the properties five Victorian porches.

The Carolina Jewel Creekside Cottage – Your perfect fall Asheville getaway can be found in our Crystal Creekside Cottage. A cozy atmosphere with high open ceilings and ultra-comfortable bedrooms, the Creekside Cottage is ideal for a small family or two couples. While it remains on our property, the Cottage is located just across the creek underneath a canopy of trees – the perfect place to experience peak fall foliage in Asheville.

Family reunion, couple’s getaway, or bachelorette weekend in Asheville? Reserve the entire Carolina Jewel Estate – The Victorian Farmhouse and the Creekside Cottage which together accommodate 17 people!

To book your stay at one of The Carolina Jewel Luxury Properties, click here .

Image source: Romantic Asheville