2023 NC Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast

Welcome to the breathtaking beauty of North Carolina's High Country, where nature's most exquisite artwork takes center stage each autumn. As the summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures, the landscape undergoes a spectacular transformation, painting the mountains with a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues. The annual fall foliage display in the North Carolina High Country is a sight to behold, drawing visitors from near and far to witness this stunning seasonal spectacle. Use this peak leaf prediction report and links to current foliage reports to help you navigate this Fall in the NC Mountains.

Peak Leaf Color Forecast by Elevation

Leaf color prediction forecasts are done based on elevation. Higher elevations will see color earlier due to the cooler temperatures. Some things to consider that affect leaf color are the amount of rain, wind, and heat the High Country receives during September and October. That is something we cannot predict! Here is a breakdown by elevation:

• Last Week of September - 6,000 Elevation (Mt Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain)
• 1st Week of October - 5,000 Elevation (Beech Mountain, Rough Ridge Trail MP 302.9)
• 2nd Week of October - 4,000 Elevation (Banner Elk, Jumpingoff Rocks Trail MP 260.3)
• 3rd Week of October - 3,000 Elevation (Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, Price Lake MP 297)
• 4th Week of October - 2,000 Elevation (Wilkesboro, Stone Mountain State Park, Yadkin Valley Overlook MP 289.8)

Current 2023 Fall Leaf Color Reports

The High Country of North Carolina offers the best in Leaf Peeping. Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway with its views of peaks and valleys and visiting the small towns of the Blue Ridge Mountains can give you an elevation change that ensures you see fall color at some point! Here is a list of websites that are updated daily or weekly with current fall color conditions that can help you plan your trip:

1. ASU FALL COLOR GUY
   Read weekly fall color reports written by Appalachian State University’s Department of Biology. You can also view his Fall Color Map and essays on the science of fall leaf color.
2. GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
   Starting late September, the most popular outdoor attraction of the High Country will start posting daily photos of the current fall color! This is a great way to gauge the color change along the High Country section of the Blue Ridge Parkway!
3. SUGAR MOUNTAIN FALL LEAF REPORTS
   See weekly fall color photos and updates on the website. Follow on Facebook for even more fall photos.

For more fall fun, join the Fall Lovers League of the High Country Facebook group HERE!