Important Update: As of 9/27/2024, the North Carolina sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway are closed indefinitely because of significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The Virginia sections of the parkway connecting to Skyline Drive are open. Learn more in our Blue Ridge Parkway Guide.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular places to see the incredible Blue Ridge Parkway fall colors and for good reason. There is no better time to drive the parkway than during the amazing color transformation where the surrounding mountains and valleys display vivid shades of red, gold, yellow, orange and green.
Jenn and I have spent countless hours travelling the Blue Ridge Parkway during the fall color season. We've been just about everywhere on the parkway, and explored many of the less traveled destinations, and of course waterfalls. This guide is intended to be your virtual companion to finding and seeing the peak colors and ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience for you on this famous mountain road.
Now, grab your pumpkin spice latte, a jacket and your camera, and let's go find some peak fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway!
Best times to see the Blue Ridge Parkway Fall Colors
Fall Colors at Graveyard Fields MP418.5
Determining the best times to see fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a bit more complex than it seems. Fall Colors progresses downward in elevation through the month of October.
Peak colors begin at the highest elevations in early October, and progress downwards through the end of October on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Because the elevation of the Blue Ridge Parkway varies so much, the best times to see fall colors will depend on where you are visiting and the elevation of that location.
The timing of peak fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway varies by elevation and location. For 2024, based on current data and historical trends that we have, here are the expected peak weeks:
Elevation | Peak Time | Locations |
|---|---|---|
Above 4,000 Feet | Early October | Areas such as Graveyard Fields, Mount Pisgah, and the higher sections near the Great Smoky Mountains |
2,500 to 4,000 Feet | Mid to Late October | Craggy Gardens, Linville Falls, and Peaks of Otter typically peak during this time. |
Below 2,500 Feet | Late October to Early November | Areas near Asheville and the lower sections of the Shenandoah Valley |
Understand that these dates are just estimates. There is no easy formula for forecasting fall color in the Blue Ridge Mountains, even if you are at the right elevation for the projected peak times.
The Blue Ridge Parkway has slopes facing east and west, with elevation ranging from under 650 feet at James River in Virginia to over 6,000 feet near Mt. Pisgah in North Carolina.
To add to the complexity even more, "peak color" is often subjective. As peak color for one person may differ from others.
If visitors expect to visit one specific location on a specific day in October, they may leave the parkway frustrated when the colors weren't what they expected.
Now, with all of that said, the Parkway is still one of the very best places to see peak fall color. Why?
Well, the parkway having changing elevations allows visitors to drive a longer distance, and experience different elevations and see some sections that are at our near peak. If you visit the planned destination, and don't find peak color, drive a few miles down the parkway to a higher elevation, and you'll likely see them. There are several top spots for seeing fall color on the Parkway.
Our best advice, from years of experience driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the peak fall colors, is to target a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway instead of a specific location, and drive the entire section. You'll see more beautiful scenery and views, and increase your likelihood of seeing vivid, peak fall colors.
Visit our 2024 Fall Color Forecast & Guide for peak date ranges by elevation.
How will the color be this year?
Draught and temperature conditions in September of each year primarily drive the fall color schedule.
However, with that being said, the forecast by elevation seldom varies for than a few days each year. What varies greatly is the color. Some years deliver very vivid colors, with reds, yellows, oranges and greens. Other years deliver many shades or oranges and yellows only.
We even had one year where a tropical storm blew through and blew nearly all the leaves down. Mother nature is hard to predict!
To keep you updated on the color progression each year, we publish weekly updates in our Fall Forecast & Guide. You can check there for updates, or sign up for our weekly newsletter to receive weekly updates in your inbox!
When should I visit Blue Ridge Parkway for fall colors?
Again, the best time is in October. Color progression usually begins at Graveyard Fields at MP418.5 and areas above 6,000 feet, then progresses downwards to the lowest elevations in Virginia towards the end of October and into early November.
There is no single best time to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is, however, an optimal time period, where most of the Blue Ridge Parkway will have color and you can easily drive to see that color.
That is from mid October to the end of October.
During those 2 weeks, in the second half of October, there are always beautiful fall colors to see on the Blue Ridge Parkway, in North Carolina and Virginia.
Where is the best part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall?
Talk about subjective! We've seen some pretty heated disagreements in our Blue Ridge Mountain Life Facebook Group about this. The bottom line is that there really isn't one particular part of the parkway that is the best.
We would say that most people would agree that the areas around Linn Cove Viaduct and Grandfather Mountain are stunning and very popular, as well as areas between Asheville, NC and Cherokee.
But don't limit yourself. There are many other stunning sections of the parkway that are beautiful in the fall.
See our 22 Best Stops for Fall Color on the Blue Ridge Parkway for more great places to visit!
Why does fall color vary year to year?
The science behind the intensity of fall color and time of peak color vary and are complex. The colors observed each year result from environmental factors and the genetic composition of plants.
Graveyard Fields at MP418.5 is a great example of genetic composition. While Graveyard Fields isn't the highest section of the parkway, it's the first to turn color because of the unique plants that grow there. Mainly blueberry bushes which turn a vivid red color each year.
The most desirable fall color for an area develops during autumn's shorter, bright and cool days, with cool nights that don't drop below freezing, and with ideal rainfall. Sufficient rainfall also results in longer leaf retention and enhanced coloration.
On the flip side, cloudy, wet, and warm weather or extremely low temperatures during early fall can mute the normally vivid color display.
Planning your trip
To fully enjoy your fall adventure along the Blue Ridge Parkway, careful planning is a must.
From finding the perfect place to stay and enjoying locally owned restaurants to ensuring your safety on the winding mountain roads and parkway, this section will guide you through everything you need to know for an exciting and memorable trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway during peak fall colors!
Finding the right place to stay is key to a successful fall trip when traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here are some recommendations for towns near the Blue Ridge Parkway:
- Asheville, NC - Asheville is a central hub for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC. It offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Consider staying near downtown for easy access to local dining and attractions, or opt for a cabin rental in the surrounding mountains for a more secluded and rustic experience.
- Boone, NC - Boone is an excellent base for exploring the northern sections of the Parkway. The town offers a range of lodging options, fantastic restaurants and lots to see and do, all within easy reach of popular spots like Grandfather Mountain and the Linn Cove Viaduct. Our favorite place to stay when we visit is at the Blue Ridge Tourist Court.
- Blowing Rock, NC: This charming mountain town is a great base for exploring the northern sections of the Parkway. With a range of lodging options, including historic inns and rustic cabins, Blowing Rock provides both convenience and scenic beauty and it's one of our favorite mountain small towns! We love staying at Chetola Resort and Meadowbrook Inn.
- Maggie Valley, NC: Known for its beautiful setting and close proximity to the southern sections of the Parkway. Maggie Valley offers a range of accommodations, from quaint motels to mountain lodges, making it a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
- Roanoke, VA: Roanoke, known as the "Star City of the South," offers a vibrant mix of arts, culture, and outdoor activities. It's an excellent place to stay for visitors looking to explore the central parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway, with many hotels, restaurants, and things to see and do.
- Sparta, NC: Sparta provides a quieter, more rural experience, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. With options ranging from country inns to vacation rentals, Sparta offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to the Parkway.
- Waynesboro, VA: Ideal for those exploring the northern end of the Parkway, Waynesboro offers easy access to the Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive. Look for comfortable hotels or vacation rentals with views of the surrounding valleys.
- Waynesville, NC: Located near the southern end of the Parkway, Waynesville offers a mix of small-town charm and proximity to outdoor activities. Choose from rustic cabins, cozy inns, or well-appointed hotels that provide easy access to nearby attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains.
Tips for seeing fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination during the fall, attracting thousands of visitors seeking to witness the breathtaking foliage. We've been travelling the parkway during all seasons, and especially in the fall. Along the way, we've learned a few tips to make your visit far more enjoyable:
- Visit on Weekdays: Crowds are significantly smaller on weekdays compared to weekends. Planning your visit for a Monday through Thursday can help you avoid the busiest times.
- Early Morning or Late Afternoon Visits: Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon not only helps avoid crowds but also offers the best lighting conditions for photography. The soft, golden light (called golden hour) during these times enhances the vibrancy of the fall colors.
- Explore Lesser-Known Areas: While iconic spots like Grandfather Mountain and Mabry Mill are must-sees, consider visiting lesser-known sections of the Parkway. Areas like Waterrock Knob, Apple Orchard Mountain, and Thunder Ridge offer equally stunning views with fewer visitors.
- Plan for Multiple Days: Instead of a single-day visit, consider spreading your trip over several days. This allows you to explore different sections of the Parkway at various times, giving you a better chance to see peak colors without the rush.
- Check Weather and Road Conditions: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and fog. Before setting out, check the forecast and road conditions. The National Park Service provides regular updates on closures and detours along the Parkway.
- Layered Clothing: Temperatures can vary widely, especially at different elevations. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to the changing conditions throughout the day.
- Drive Safely: The Parkway’s winding roads and steep grades require careful driving, especially during peak season when traffic can be heavy. Stick to the speed limit, be cautious on curves, and watch for wildlife, particularly at dawn and dusk. To keep traffic moving and as a courtesy to others, please pull over to allow faster moving traffic to safely pass.
