No matter where you are in the Tar Heel State, you’ll find that fall in North Carolina brings with it brilliant hues, breezes that feel as if they’ll whisk you away, and a calm serenity as you enjoy both to the fullest. We’re fortunate to live in such a gorgeous state to experience it all beginning in just a few weeks. Until then, dazzle your sense of adventure with an enticing look at 12 of the best places to experience fall in North Carolina.
1. Linn Cove Viaduct - Blue Ridge Parkway
Linn Cove Viaduct, 3218 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Newland, NC 28657, USA
Fall in North Carolina simply isn't complete without at least one trip to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Linn Cove Viaduct can be found at milepost 304.4. The last section to be completed on the Blue Ridge Parkway is also one of the most photographed. Autumn is especially beautiful from this vantage point on the Parkway. See if you agree!
It's difficult to pinpoint the best time of year to visit America's Castle, but if you have the chance to visit in the peak season for leaf peeping, it's a sight to behold. Did you know that the Biltmore is the largest privately-owned estate in the entire country? And, it's also rumored to be one of the most haunted places in North Carolina.
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3. Graveyard Fields - Canton
Graveyard Fields 418.8, Graveyard Fields, Canton, NC 28716, USA
Head to Transylvania County to visit the highest mountain valley in the state. Graveyard Fields valley itself is more than 5,000 feet in elevation and is surrounded by mountain peaks above 6,000 feet. You'll find it along the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 418.8. One of the best ways to experience this beautiful landmark in North Carolina is the 3-mile trail.
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4. Price Lake - Blue Ridge Parkway
Julian Price Memorial Park, Milepost, 297 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
Julian Price Park sits at the base of Grandfather Mountain. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing here, and for those wanting to spend more than a day, there's a campground operated by the National Park Service. Imagine waking up to these vivid colors! Price Lake in North Carolina is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 296.7.
5. Mingus Mill - Oconaluftee Valley, Cherokee
Mingus Mill, Mingus Creek Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Situated along Mingus Creek and found a short distance from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, this 1896 grist mill is a must-see, especially when surrounded by the vibrant hues of autumn. While you're in the area, be sure to check out some of the most picturesque views in North Carolina.
6. Pilot Mountain State Park - Pinnacle
Pilot Mountain State Park, 1721 Pilot Knob Park Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043, USA
The westernmost end of the Sauratown Mountain range in North Carolina is marked with the towering Pilot Mountain. A visit to this legendary guidepost at the peak of the fall season is a guarantee you'll walk away with spectacular images to remind you of the day. It's easy to see why Pilot Mountain is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in North Carolina.
The centerpiece and namesake for this popular state park is a stunning backdrop for the season change each fall. Photos are lovely, but they can never really make the same impact as seeing it in person. Plus, while you're there, you can hike through a former historic homestead in North Carolina.
8. Crabtree Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway - Grassy Creek
Crabtree Falls, 39000 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Marion, NC 28752, USA
One of the most popular waterfalls on the parkway is basked in the glow of yellow, orange, and rusty red hues once the peak of the leaf-peeping season arrives. Time your visit perfectly to see it at its best. Hiking to Crabtree Falls in North Carolina is a short and strenuous trek you won't soon forget!
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9. North Carolina Arboretum - Asheville
The North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806, USA
Found within the Pisgah National Forest, the arboretum has miles of walking trails and cultivated gardens and is aglow with color during the height of the fall season. And, if you happen to be in the area during wintertime, don't miss the famous winter lights garden walk in North Carolina!
The American Tobacco Trail follows an old rail line built in the 1970s for the American Tobacco Company. It passes through 22.6 miles of the Research Triangle, including the city of Durham. When it comes to unique day trips in North Carolina, this trail is definitely one you'll want to experience.
Start your colorful adventure in Robbinsville when you hop on the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile road that travels 18 miles before entering the state of Tennessee. Many consider the Cherohala Skyway to be the most beautiful drive in North Carolina, and it's no mystery why!
An easy, 1.3-mile hike leads to an astounding view of the tallest waterfall in North Carolina (at 411 feet). Hit this trail in the height of the season for an immersive hiking experience to dazzle your sense of adventure. Can't get enough of waterfalls in the Tar Heel State? Check out this incredible 2-day itinerary for exploring the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina - including Upper Whitewater Falls!
Where is your go-to spot for enjoying everything that fall in North Carolina has to offer? And will you be going there this year, or does the pandemic have you considering just staying home? We’d love to know, so join the discussion in our Facebook comments!
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fall in North Carolina
Beth C. |August 17, 2022
Where can I go to see the fall foliage in North Carolina?
If you're someone who celebrates the arrival of autumn every year, you'll be thrilled to hear that North Carolina is an excellent state for leaf-peeping. To see the fall foliage in North Carolina, you can visit just about any region of the state, although the mountains are where the foliage seems to shine brightest. Some of our favorite places to visit in North Carolina during the fall include Hanging Rock State Park, the Linn Cove Viaduct, Roan Mountain, Linville Gorge, and Mount Mitchell. If you're planning to visit any of these spots, keep in mind that they're popular and tend to draw significant crowds during the fall season. Our advice would be to visit early in the day or during a weekday!
