The fall colors in Asheville, North Carolina tend to start teasing in late September – at the highest elevations – and then start to make their way down into the lower mountains and valleys over approximately a six-week period. And with those changing colors comes a colorful palette of fall festivals and a whole lot more.
Top 10 things to do in the fall in Asheville
Enjoy the View on a Scenic Drive
Take a Sunday Drive. There’s no shortage of scenic drives in Asheville. Whether you choose to hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway to take in the views along the numerous overlooks; take a spin on Highway 19 to the charming towns of Burnsville and Spruce Pine; or visit Lake Lure via Highway 64, the views along the way will certainly reveal numerous reasons to take pause – and of course – a few pictures too. And if you’ve got a convertible – better yet. Get your Cary Grant or Grace Kelly on! Don a cheeky neckerchief and hit the road like a classic movie star.
Hike in Pisgah National Forest
Laced with trails, Pisgah National Forest offers stunning hikes amidst brilliant foliage. Trails like the Cradle of Forestry or Looking Glass Rock will surround you with reds, oranges, and yellows. Indulge your senses for a real treat.
Stroll through the Biltmore Estate Gardens
Visit the iconic Biltmore Estate to explore its beautifully-landscaped gardens. The estate’s expansive grounds provide a picturesque backdrop to the vibrant fall colors.
Book an Adventure
Whether zip-lining through a canopy of trees or rafting down the French Broad, you’ll see the fall colors in Asheville from a unique perspective. French Broad Adventures offers a host of adventure packages that include canyoneering and off-road e-biking too.
Visit Local Farms
Explore nearby farms that offer fall activities, including hayrides, pumpkin and apple picking. Farms like Sky Top Orchard not only feature beautiful foliage, but also stunning mountain views. And if you want some cheese to go with those apples – check out Edible Asheville’s “Artisanal Cheese Tour” in mid-October. You’ll taste great cheese and take in beautiful spots along the way.
Picnic in a Local Park
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy fall foliage within the city. Asheville’s tree-lined streets and parks offer a brilliant display of autumn colors without leaving urban limits. You can bike or walk its many greenways too. Take a picnic or have a local company curate one just for you and your group. The Asheville Luxury Picnic Company specializes in picnic pop-ups!
Ramp Up Your Photography Skills
Join a photography tour in Asheville to capture the essence of fall. Expert guides can lead you to hidden gems and provide tips on how to best frame that scene in your lens. Capture the light, achieve ideal color saturation and more with WNC Photo Tours and Asheville Photo Tours – both popular picks.
Watch the Sunset at the Grove Park Inn
This historic inn, set atop Sunset Mountain, is just two miles from the center of downtown, and offers some of the best views of downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond. Grab a drink on its Sunset Terrace which overlooks its infamous golf course and spa and soak it all in.
Get High
A tour with the Asheville Balloon Company allows visitors to drift gently over the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, offering panoramic views of the fiery colors that blanket the trees. After landing, guests can celebrate their adventure with a traditional champagne toast.
Photo credit via Facebook: Asheville Balloon Company.
Go to a Fall Festival in Asheville
Come the fall and Asheville really fills up with art, music and food festivals. The LEAF festival is a classic – and technically – it’s not in Asheville, but nearby Black Mountain – about 15 minutes away. It’s all about celebrating music, culture and the arts. The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands features more than 200 artists and Asheville Art in the Park boasts many one-of-a-kind works of art and takes place on three Saturdays in October.
So, which leaf-peeping/fall adventure(s) will choose?
You don’t have to pick just one. There are so many Asheville things to do during fall. Come embrace the season with us and book your stay at one of these charming Asheville vacation rentals.
Feature photo via Facebook, Biltmore Estate.
STAY WITH US THIS FALL
BOOK Cascade Cottage
Escape to a tranquil haven just outside Asheville, perfect for relaxing after adventures downtown or hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains. This brand-new home offers modern comfort with rustic charm and is conveniently located near top attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Chimney Rock, and the Biltmore Estate. Unwind on the front porch in the evenings, stargazing or enjoying quality time with loved ones.
BOOK Lakeside Mountain Retreat
Escape to a cozy studio condominium at Mill House Lodge, surrounded by the natural beauty of Flat Rock and Hendersonville, North Carolina. Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this retreat offers comfort, a kitchenette, and seasonal access to a swimming pool and tranquil lake for fishing and kayaking. With nearby hiking, local shops, and attractions like the Carl Sandburg Home, it’s an ideal base for a relaxing getaway.
BOOK Luxury Tranquil Oasis with Breathtaking Views
This luxurious three-bedroom, four-bathroom home offers breathtaking 180-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just 10 minutes from Asheville. The modern mountain retreat includes a large deck with a hot tub, fire pit, and outdoor dining space, as well as high-end amenities like Tempur-Pedic mattresses, smart TVs, and an EV charger. Accommodating up to eight guests, the home is perfect for relaxing getaways with privacy and stunning scenery above the treetops.
Happy fall y’all!
