We know you’re heading west to see stunning fall color, but look beyond the Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks and you’ll discover more incredible ways to experience the season.
blowing rock
In Search of Fall Color in the Blue Ridge Mountains
An Appalachian State University professor explores the mountains to find the telltale shades of autumn. Then he shares on social media the best places to find the most color in nature.
The High Country: Nature’s Art
The spectacular views in North Carolina’s High Country aren’t just inspiration for writers, painters, and sculptors. Those landscapes — the rugged gray face of Grandfather Mountain, the vibrant fall leaves, the deep green meadows — are brushstrokes on Earth’s own canvas.
Written in Stone: North Carolina’s Rock Formations
According to Cherokee legend, when the Earth was created, the Great Buzzard flew low over the flat land, his beating wings sculpting mountains and valleys below. Today, science offers its own explanations for our state’s geological marvels.
3 Ways to Decorate For Fall
Fill your home with gorgeous gourds, hand-woven baskets, and fall-scented candles from three talented North Carolina artists and makers.
8 Scenic Drives in the North Carolina Mountains
Need inspiration for your fall leaf-peeping trip? During a drive on these winding scenic byways — with plenty of stops for waterfalls, hikes, museums, delicious food, and gorgeous views along the way — the journey is the destination.
Our State Knows Best: Leaf Peeping
We talked to three biologists about how and when to plan a trip to see peak fall color in North Carolina, their favorite hikes and overlooks, and why our mountains are one of the best places in the country to see stunning autumn leaves.
Sip and Stay at Hellbender Bed & Beverage
A Blowing Rock B&B switches things up, focusing on beverages instead of breakfasts and paying homage to a beloved salamander found in the waters of western North Carolina.
Natural Beauty in Blowing Rock
Marvel at Blue Ridge beauty from horseback, cast a line in a flowing mountain river filled with speckled trout, and uncover sparkling gemstones while on guided adventures in the High Country.
