FALL IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS NC – THINGS TO DO, EVENTS & MORE
The fall season brings along welcomed changes to the Smoky Mountains. While we’re sad to see summer go, the lower temperatures make enjoying the outdoors here even more enticing, along with the cascade of warm colors that engulf the landscape. Some of the area’s most popular events also happen in the fall, including the Apple Harvest Festival in Waynesville and the Maggie Valley Fall Art and Craft Show, giving leaf-peepers one more reason to plan an adventure to the Smokies during the season. Also happening this fall: the annual Monarch migration through our mountains! Read on to learn how to make the most out of a fall trip to the Smokies!
2025 Fall Color Guide
When autumn arrives in the Western North Carolina Mountains, the number one question on everyone’s mind is: Have the leaves started to change? And just as importantly, when will they be at their peak?
While there’s no precise formula for predicting the changing leaves, there are a few key indicators that help us anticipate nature’s spectacular display. The best fall color typically results when we have:
Bright, sunny, and cool days
Cool (but not freezing) nights
Steady, moderate rainfall throughout the growing season
In contrast, overly wet, warm, or cloudy conditions—or an early cold snap—can dampen the intensity of the colors.
It’s also important to remember that even areas at the same elevation may change at different times depending on factors like sun exposure, soil composition, and microclimates.
Every year is a little different, and that’s part of the magic.
FALL FUN CAPTURED BY YOU
2025 Fall Color Timeline
Early October: High Elevations (5,000+ ft)
This is the peak window for some of the highest and most breathtaking viewpoints in the region. For vibrant color above 5,000 feet, visit:
These locations are ideal for early leaf peeping and provide some of the most iconic fall scenes on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Mid-October: 4,000–5,000 ft
Color reaches its full gloryin mid-elevation zones, including:
Most areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Major portions of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This is a prime time to explore scenic drives and mountain hikes with brilliant reds, oranges, and golds blanketing the ridgelines.
Late October: 3,000–4,000 ft
As the season progresses, fall color begins to brighten the towns and valleys of Haywood County. Many areas within our charming communities still sit at higher elevations, so you’ll catch a varied tapestry of color throughout.
Keep your camera ready, this is when downtown strolls and valley views shine.
Early November: Below 3,000 ft
If autumn lingers, the final bursts of color emerge at the lowest elevations. This period often brings a rich finale to the fall season, sometimes extending well into November. Even if you’ve missed earlier peaks, this is still a beautiful and peaceful time to enjoy the change of seasons.
Looking to take your leaf-peeping to new heights? Check out our blog on Haywood County’s 13 peaks above 6,000 feet, because fall looks even better from the top.
Favorite Spots for Fall Color
Lake Junaluska
Lake Junaluska offers amazing fall views courtesy of its surrounding mountains. Take in the beauty with a leisurely stroll around lake on a paved 2.6-mile trail that is also perfect for riding bikes, walking the dog, or taking a jog. Cast a line for a relaxing day of fishing or enjoy the remaining warm weather with kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding. This is a perfect place for a relaxing retreat, or a getaway filled with adventures.
Black Balsam Knob
Black Balsam Knob is a tree-less bald that sits above 6214 ft. in elevation and gives wide sweeping views of surrounding mountain ranges. There are several trails accessible from this point on the Blue Ridge Parkway and plenty of areas to explore. A great short hike for families, day hikers, photographers. This section of trails includes some of the most spectacular mountains and balds in the Southern Appalachians
Graveyard Fields
Graveyard Fields offers plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of the season. Rushing waterfalls and cool, clear streams are a favorite highlight along this moderate 3.2 mile hiking trail found at Milepost 418.8. The unique layout of the trail offers the feeling of being smack-dab in the middle of all the fall time beauty. Here’s a tip—go early or during the week because the parking area can often be crowded.
Elk in the Fall
During fall season, also known as “rut,” male bull elks perform their legendary bugle calls to attract female cows and other bulls. At this time, bull elks can be seen sparring with one another in an overall attempt to impress female elk. This annual ritual typically begins in early- to mid-September and can last into the early weeks of October.
The elk of Cataloochee Valley are most visible at dawn and dusk, so plan accordingly. (Psst: it’s a great time to catch up on our best elk watching tips!) Pack a picnic breakfast or dinner and explore the historic valley while you wait. Travel back in time with visits to turn-of-the-century homes, a schoolhouse, and a church that tell the story of one of the original pioneer settlements in Haywood County.
Fall Shopping Favorites
Waynesville
Carve out some time to visit Waynesville for your fall necessities. Main Street is bustling with boutiques, fine art galleries, gift shops and more. Located in one of Waynesville’s charming neighborhoods, Hazelwood Soap Co. has fresh soaps and lotions made with natural ingredients that you will absolutely fall for. Lastly, get your pick of appetizing apple treats like turnovers, donuts, and fritters at Barber’s Orchard. Sounds pretty sweet to us!
Maggie Valley
If you are a shopper who likes everything to be in one place, visit Market Square this fall for a lineup of Smoky Mountain shops for all to enjoy. Located nearby, you can find a gallery of handmade pottery and crock drums at Different Drummer Pottery. Looking to spice up your shopping trip? Visit Maggie Valley for local beer tasting at Bearwaters brewing Creekside. Shop among the fall decor that lines the street and makes for a memorable experience.
canton
This hidden gem of a town is a must-stop for seasonal shopping. Specialty shop, Maddie’s on Main, is home to handmade gifts, vintage collectables, décor and more. For the latest fall fashions and locally made treasures, Clementines Boutique is a mom-and-pop shop with the best gifts to share. Don’t forget to top off your shopping spree with a sweet treat from Grateful Table. Canton truly has the pick of the patch.
Signature Fall Events
From artful craft shows to toe-tapping bluegrass festivals and mouthwatering celebrations of local flavors, fall is the perfect time to experience the rich Appalachian culture in Haywood County.
Discover all the ways you can make the most of the season, browse our complete list of fall events and happenings on the Events page of our website.
