Fall is one of the most magical times to explore the Carolina Mountains. As the summer heat fades, crisp air, golden light, and a palette of red, orange, and gold take over the landscape. From early fall’s leaf-chasing adventures to late fall’s cozy vacation rental getaways and holiday events, the High Country offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, Lansing, Jefferson, Sparta, Wilkesboro, or heading north to the bike or hike the Virginia Creeper Trail, here’s how to make the most of your fall mountain escape.
🍁 Early Fall (September through mid-October)
Peak Foliage, Festivals & Outdoor Adventures
1. Leaf Peeping on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Starting in late September, the leaves begin their show—especially along higher elevations like Mount Jefferson, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Elk Knob State Park. Scenic overlooks, winding drives, and trails like the Rough Ridge or Cascade Falls offer Instagram-worthy views.
2. Hike Mount Jefferson, Elk Knob or Paddy Mountain
These three state parks near West Jefferson and Boone offer moderate hikes with big payoffs. Cooler temperatures and bright foliage make this the ideal time for a mountaintop picnic.
3. Explore Downtowns
Wander the charming towns of West Jefferson, Boone, Blowing Rock, Lansing, Sparta and Wilkesboro, where you’ll find local art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, cider tastings, and unique shops. Don’t miss Ashe County Cheese in West Jefferson or the Spice & Tea Exchange in Blowing Rock.
4. Cruise the Virginia Creeper Trail
Just over the North Carolina–Virginia border, the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus is one of the best fall bike rides in the region. Rent a bike, and coast downhill through canopies of changing leaves and along streams and bridges to the quaint town of Abingdon where you will be shuttled back to Damascus.
5. Fall Festivals
Celebrate the season at events like:
Brushy Mountain Apple Festival (Wilkesboro, early October)
Autumn Leaves Festival (nearby Mount Airy)
Lansing’s Ola Belle Reed Festival (early September, with Appalachian music and heritage)
Boone Heritage Festival (late September)
🍂 Late Fall (late October through mid-November)
Peaceful Trails, Cozy Vacation Rentals & Holiday Prep
6. Late Season Hikes & Scenic Drives
By late October and early November, the leaves have moved to lower elevations—making towns like Sparta, Wilkesboro, and Lansing perfect for peaceful leaf walks along trails like New River State Park or Stone Mountain State Park.
7. Cozy Up in a Rental
With the chill in the air and the leaves mostly down, late fall is the ideal time to book a cabin with a hot tub, fireplace, or fire pit. Sip coffee on the porch or relax with a blanket and a book as you listen to the wind in the trees.
8. Holiday Kick-Off Events
Start feeling festive with early holiday events like:
Blowing Rock’s Holiday Stroll (mid-November)
Wilkesboro’s Candlelight Ghost Tours
Sparta’s Mountain Heritage Festival with crafts, music, and food
9. Fly Fishing & Quiet River Time
The New River, flowing through Ashe and Alleghany Counties, offers peaceful fly fishing and kayaking in late fall—without the summer crowds. Outfitters are still open for equipment rental, and the water is clear and calm.
10. Small Town Relaxation
Late fall is perfect for enjoying the quiet charm of these mountain towns. Grab a pastry at a local bakery, sip wine at a tasting room in Lansing or Sparta, and enjoy the peaceful pace before winter sets in.
🍎 Bonus Tips for Fall Travelers
Dress in layers – Mountain weather changes quickly!
Book early for peak foliage (late Sept to mid-Oct)
Bring your camera – Even roadside stops are photo-worthy
Support local – Shop small for handmade gifts, jams, pottery & more
Whether you’re chasing fall colors on the Creeper Trail, sipping cider in Boone, or cozying up in a cabin near West Jefferson, early and late fall are both exceptional times to explore the Carolina Mountains. The views are spectacular, the air is fresh, and the memories made here will last long after the leaves have fallen.