Where to See Fall Foliage Near Asheville
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Omni Grove Park Inn
The most elegant place to stay in Asheville is the beautiful Omni Grove Park Inn. While most Omni properties are fabulous, the mesmerizing mountains surrounding this Asheville resort really place this property on a whole new level. Featuring an award-winning golf course and spa, wonderful restaurants, and the most gorgeous lobby, there is no better place to stay.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at the Blue Ridge Artisanal Buffet featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Blue Ridge mountains. Grab a drink at the lobby bar and sit by the massive fireplace or enjoy a drink on the terrace as you gaze at the lovely fall scenes surrounding you. The property feels like it is in the middle of nowhere, although you are just minutes away from the excitement of one of the South’s favorite foodie cities.
- Location: 290 Macon Ave, Asheville, NC
- Peak color: Mid-late October
North Carolina Arboretum
The best place within the city limits to work up a sweat is the 434 acre North Carolina Arboretum. A bit pricey with a $16 parking fee, although there is no entrance fee. While the Bonsai Garden and Quilt Garden are both fantastic, what really sets this arboretum apart from others is the well-maintained hiking network, which includes 10 miles of trails. Here, you can get in a great workout in rustic natural surroundings, minus the long drive to the Parkway or Pisgah National Forest.
It’s never overly crowded here, and thus, hiking the serene trails comes as a welcome break. After a few days putting up with rowdy downtown crowds and traffic, you will definitely enjoy this natural oasis. During the fall season, the deciduous trees all dazzle in the most brilliant of hues. Overall, this is a beautiful place for an easy-moderate fall hiking experience. As I lived a mere 10 minutes away, I was able to hop on the trails here at least twice a week. I really love the foliage here – definitely my favorite place to leaf peep!
- Location: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC
- Peak color: Late October
Flat Rock
This quick loop hike along the Parkway features surprisingly spectacular views considering the short distance. With fewer crowds than surrounding destinations like Rough Ridge and Grandfather Mountain, Flat Rock is the perfect alternative for anyone who doesn’t want to hassle with crowds and parking. From the expansive flat overlook, you will enjoy picture-perfect views of the region including beautiful Grandfather Mountain. This hike is at its’ best during the colorful fall season. Time your visit just right to enjoy one of the more colorful autumn vistas along the Parkway. And bring with a picnic or book – this one is quiet enough to plan for some relaxation time.
- Location: Milepost 308.3
- Peak color: Mid October
Dupont State Forest
The Dupont State Forest is home to several incredible waterfalls. Two of these can be found along a wonderful trail known as Triple Falls. In addition to two towering 125 foot waterfalls (High Falls and Triple Falls), you will also come across the small but mighty Hooker Falls. A covered bridge and beautiful leaf peeping add to the ambiance during the fall season. This one gets pretty crowded, and thus, a weekday visit is your best bet to find parking. On an interesting side note, The Hunger Games filmed in the area!
- Location: 89 Buck Forest Rd. Cedar Mountain, NC
- Peak color: mid- Late October
Asheville Botanical Garden
This free, but lovely local botanical garden is a quiet place to escape the tourist traffic for a bit. Within the 10 acre space, you will find many plants native to the Southern Appalachian area. Although this garden can easily be walked in its’ entirety in less than a half hour, it’s a great place to relax, picnic, or bird watch. Fall is the most beautiful time to visit as the grounds are covered in a medley of seasonal hues. Parking and admission are both free, although donations are appreciated. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop – lots of great birding books to pick up!
- Location: 151 W T. Weaver Boulevard, Asheville, NC
- Peak color: Late October-early November
