7 Best Spots for Fall Foliage Near Asheville, NC
There’s something truly magical about the way autumn transforms the landscape near Asheville, North Carolina.
As the summer heat fades, the Blue Ridge Mountains burst into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the most breathtaking places to witness the beauty of fall foliage.
I still remember the first time I drove along the Blue Ridge Parkway in late October.
The mountains seemed to be on fire but in the most mesmerizing way possible.
The crisp air, the rustling leaves, and the vibrant colors all around—it was like stepping into a painting.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to soak in every moment of this natural spectacle.
Whether you’re a local looking for new spots to explore or planning a trip to the area, I’ve got you covered.
In this article, I’m sharing the seven best spots near Asheville where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of fall foliage.
Trust me, these places will leave you in awe and might just become annual pilgrimage spots for you too.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
No list of fall foliage spots near Asheville would be complete without mentioning the Blue Ridge Parkway.
This iconic roadway is renowned for its stunning vistas, especially during the fall.
As you drive along the winding road, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, draped in a sea of autumn colors.
One of my favorite stops along the Parkway is the Craggy Gardens.
At an elevation of over 5,000 feet, the views from here are nothing short of spectacular.
The contrast between the blue sky and the fiery foliage below creates a scene that’s almost surreal.
If you’re up for a short hike, the Craggy Pinnacle Trail offers even more breathtaking views.
For those looking to take it slow, the Blue Ridge Parkway is perfect for a leisurely drive with plenty of overlooks where you can pull over and snap some photos.
Early morning or late afternoon light will give you the most dramatic shots.
Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates a good scenic drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit during the fall.
2. Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell is not only the highest peak east of the Mississippi River but also one of the best places to experience fall foliage in North Carolina.
The views from the summit are nothing short of awe-inspiring, with rolling mountains covered in a patchwork of autumn colors as far as the eye can see.
On a clear day, you can see up to 85 miles away, giving you a true sense of the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, I highly recommend the hike to Mount Mitchell’s summit.
The trail is relatively short, but the elevation gain can be challenging for some. However, the effort is well worth it.
As you ascend, you’ll pass through different forest types, each offering its own unique fall foliage experience.
The mix of hardwoods and evergreens creates a stunning contrast of colors that you won’t want to miss.
After soaking in the views, you can stop by the Mount Mitchell State Park Museum to learn more about the area’s natural and cultural history.
There’s also a small restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat while enjoying the scenery.
3. Graveyard Fields
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Graveyard Fields is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the fall foliage.
Despite its somewhat eerie name, this area is incredibly beautiful, especially in the fall.
The name comes from the tree stumps scattered across the valley floor, which resemble old, crumbling gravestones.
The Graveyard Fields Loop Trail is a relatively easy hike that takes you through a stunning landscape of open meadows, streams, and waterfalls.
During the fall, the meadows are ablaze with color, making it a photographer’s dream.
The trail also leads to two waterfalls—Lower Falls and Upper Falls—both of which are worth a visit.
The contrast between the white water and the surrounding fall foliage creates a scene that’s both peaceful and picturesque.
Graveyard Fields is also a great spot for a family hike, as the trail is well-maintained and not too strenuous.
Just be sure to arrive early, as this area can get quite busy, especially during peak leaf season.
4. DuPont State Recreational Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest, located just outside of Asheville, is another fantastic spot to see fall foliage.
This 10,000-acre forest is home to a variety of landscapes, including dense woodlands, rushing rivers, and scenic waterfalls.
The forest’s diverse tree species create a vibrant display of fall colors that is sure to impress.
One of the highlights of DuPont State Recreational Forest is the hike to Triple Falls.
This three-tiered waterfall is one of the most photographed spots in the area, and for good reason.
The trail to Triple Falls is relatively short and easy, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
As you make your way to the falls, you’ll pass through forests that are ablaze with color in the fall, providing plenty of opportunities for photos.
For those looking for a longer hike, the High Falls Loop Trail is a great option.
This trail takes you to both High Falls and Triple Falls, as well as several other scenic spots in the forest.
The views from High Falls, in particular, are stunning, with the waterfall framed by vibrant fall foliage.
5. Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is one of the most beautiful and expansive forests in North Carolina, and it’s a prime spot for fall foliage.
With over 500,000 acres of forested land, Pisgah offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and leaf-peeping.
One of my favorite spots in Pisgah National Forest is Looking Glass Rock.
The hike to the summit is challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
As you look out over the mountains, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of fall colors that seems to stretch on forever.
Another great spot in Pisgah National Forest is the Pink Beds Loop Trail.
This relatively flat trail takes you through a beautiful forest of hardwoods and evergreens, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
During the fall, the forest floor is carpeted with colorful leaves, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a leisurely hike.
If you’re looking for a scenic drive, the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway is a great option.
This 79-mile route takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Pisgah National Forest, with plenty of pull-offs where you can stop and take in the views.
6. Biltmore Estate
While the Biltmore Estate is best known for its stunning mansion, the estate’s gardens and grounds are also a fantastic place to see fall foliage.
The estate’s 8,000 acres of land include a variety of landscapes, from formal gardens to wooded trails, all of which are at their most beautiful during the fall.
One of the highlights of a fall visit to the Biltmore Estate is the walk through the estate’s gardens.
The Walled Garden, in particular, is a must-see, with its vibrant displays of fall flowers and foliage.
The nearby Azalea Garden is another great spot for leaf-peeping, with its towering trees and winding paths.
For those who want to explore the estate’s grounds further, there are several miles of hiking and biking trails that take you through the estate’s forests and along the French Broad River.
The views from these trails are stunning, with the estate’s grand architecture providing a striking contrast to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
While it’s a bit of a drive from Asheville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is well worth the trip, especially during the fall.
The park’s diverse ecosystems create a stunning display of fall colors, with different species of trees changing color at different times, resulting in a prolonged leaf season.
One of the best spots to see fall foliage in the park is Clingmans Dome. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The drive to Clingmans Dome is beautiful in itself, with plenty of pull-offs where you can stop and take in the views.
If you’re up for a hike, the Alum Cave Trail is a great option.
This trail takes you through a beautiful forest of hardwoods and evergreens, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The trail is relatively challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
Conclusion
There’s something undeniably magical about fall in Asheville.
The combination of crisp air, vibrant foliage, and stunning landscapes creates an experience that’s truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking through Pisgah National Forest, or exploring the grounds of the Biltmore Estate, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty of the season.
I encourage you to explore these spots and take your time soaking in the beauty around you.
Each location offers its own unique perspective on the fall season, and you may find yourself discovering new favorites year after year.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, as these are memories you’ll want to capture and relive.
Enjoy your fall foliage adventure and be sure to share your experiences with others who appreciate the beauty of nature.
