Spring has sprung, summer has spun, and now the Asheville fall foliage show has begun! If you’re a fan of autumn colors and haven’t experienced the season in Asheville yet, you’re missing out. Not only do we have some of the most stunning leaf-peeping in the country, but our fall season is one of the longest and most diverse in the world!
Western North Carolina is one of the nation’s most popular fall destinations – and for good reason. Our leaves begin changing color around the end of September and continue through to early November. The change begins at the higher elevations, then slowly spreads down into the valleys. We typically see the most vibrant colors in mid to late October and early November.
As you can imagine, all of this makes the Asheville fall foliage season very popular. Consequently, now is a good time to make your autumn getaway plans at Bent Creek Lodge!
Asheville Fall Foliage Attractions
The Asheville region is known for its gorgeous natural vistas. Views that only become more breathtaking when dressed in autumn’s multi-hued splendor. One of the best ways to take in the season is with a fall foliage drive, and a great place to start is along our stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is now open from the Folk Art Center to Chereokee, NC at the southern end of the parkway. 85 miles of absolutely stunning fall foliage, with lots of overlooks and trails – and all less than a mile from our Asheville bed and breakfast.
Pisgah National Forest is another popular destination for seasonal color. Located south of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it is home to Mount Pisgah, Looking Glass Rock, a variety of scenic waterfalls, and many other natural attractions.
Mid-October is a great time for a drive along US 19, between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, NC. The lovely, winding roads display the season’s hues and lots of roadside Americana. BBQ shacks, souvenir shops, lookout towers, and more. Add variety to your trip by returning on US 276, through Pisgah National Forest to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Other late season fall foliage hotspots include Chimney Rock Park and the Vance Birthplace in Weaverville, NC.
Our neighbor, the North Carolina Arboretum, is a must-see attraction all year long but it is particularly beautiful in autumn. Located just three minutes from the Lodge, NC Arboretum offers miles of peaceful and scenic hiking trails through their carefully nurtured forests and gardens.
Of course, if the neighboring Arboretum and Parkway are alive with the seasons cheery hues, you can bet that Bent Creek Lodge is, too! Our quiet, little triangle of forest and landscaped grounds, located just south of downtown Asheville, surround you with autumn colors. Relaxing and entrancing views you can enjoy from our decks and porches or with a pleasant stroll along the Lodge trail.
2025 Asheville Fall Festivals & Events
Beautiful as they are, nature’s most colorful season isn’t the only reason to check out an Asheville autumn. This season also sees cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and plenty of fun events and attractions to enjoy. Below we’ve included just a few of the many seasonal attractions you can enjoy:
Asheville Greek Festival – September 26-27
Blue Ride Pride Festival – September 27
Oktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K – September 27
Asheville Haunted Trail – weekends in October
Burnpile Music & Beer Fest – October 4
Asheville VeganFest – October 4-5
Asheville Art in the Park – October 4, 11, & 18
The Lovely Asheville Fall Festival – October 11-12
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands – October 16-19
Fall LEAF Festival – October 18-19
Wicked Spooky 5k – October 25
Fall is also a great time to pick apples, sip hot cider, and enjoy other harvest activities. North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producer in the nation, and nearby Henderson County is the state’s largest apple-producing county. Head out to Henderson County’s Apple Valley, on US Highway 64 between Hendersonville and Chimney Rock to visit area orchards, farmers markets, and more. Great seasonal fun!
Autumn is also a wonderful season for visiting Biltmore. The estate is always lovely but the fall foliage takes its beauty to a whole new level. In fact, if there’s any downside to Asheville fall foliage, it’s that it attracts large crowds, especially mid-October. Because of this, we recommend visiting in late September, early November, or enjoying a weekday getaway.
Whatever your choose, now is the time to book your Asheville fall vacation at Bent Creek Lodge. See you soon!