We don’t know about y’all, but our team (except for Grace) has been loving these cooler temps + cloudy, moodier days we have been experiencing unseasonably early this year. Fall weather might be slowly creeping up on us, but it always seems like when the leaves start changing – they go fast. According to this map from Smoky Mountains National Park, peak season in the Upstate and Western North Carolina we will be roughly between the first and second week of October.
So we’re letting you in on some of our team’s favorite spots to go leaf watching to make sure you’re prepared with beautiful local locations to check out this year’s fall foliage. And if hiking is right up your alley, bookmark our hiking guide for more unbe-leaf-able views (and you thought we could get through this piece without a leaf pun).
Editor Ana’s Top Pick – Cataloochee Valley
🚘: ~2 hours
“I really considered keeping this one a secret, but because it’s so good I’m begrudgingly sharing (so don’t scare my elk). When I visited several years ago, the autumn colors were beautiful, there was fog hanging over the valley, and the elks were bugling to one another. Talk about a peaceful scene. And for your history lovers, there are also some historic structures in the Valley.” Additional COVID-19 information.
Editor Grace’s Top Pick – Blue Ridge Parkway
“This might be a pretty non-unique answer, but when I think ‘places to see the leaves,’ I immediately think of the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re not really into hiking, then this is the one for you since you can enjoy the views without ever having to leave your car. Also a perfect excuse to create the perfect fall playlist.” Additional COVID-19 information.
Intern Alexx’s Top Pick – Bald Rock
🚘: ~45 min.
“This short little drive is one of my favorite day-trip getaways. My mom + I used to drive up to Bald Rock when I was a kid just to get a quick glimpse of this gorgeous view. Whether you’re looking for the perfect fall evening picnic spot or a coffee morning sunrise, I recommend this spot to everyone. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to buy some jams from local farmers when you get there." Additional COVID-19 information.
Some more options:
Biltmore Estate
Biltmore’s sprawling grounds, gardens, and views make it the perfect urban locale to view the colors of the season. Additional COVID-19 information.
The Blowing Rock
The Blowing Rock is a must for incredible scenery + photos. While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by Boone for some local eats + shopping. Melanie’s is a great spot for brunch, Our Daily Bread is a go-to lunch option, and Lost Province Brewing Co. or Basil’s are perfect for dinner. Additional COVID-19 information.
Campbell’s Covered Bridge
🚘: ~40 min.
This bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in South Carolina. The surrounding open areas + burbling of Beaverdam Creek make for the perfect spot for a fall picnic.
Carl Sandburg House
🚘: ~50 min.
If you’re looking for a fun fall day trip, head up to Hendersonville to visit the goats at the Carl Sandburg House + hike Glassy Mountain trail. Then make your way over to Marked Tree Vineyard for a wine tasting + some views. Additional COVID-19 information.
Jones Gap State Park
🚘: ~45 min.
Jones Gap gets pretty busy, but here’s a #ProTip. You can access Falls Creek Waterfall without going into the park itself to avoid some of the Rainbow Falls crowds. Additional COVID-19 information.
Lane Pinnacle hike
This hike is relatively easy (but narrow) and provides some stunning panoramic views after hiking through the largely wooded path.
Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell is a favorite spot year-round and is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 ft. It’s always freezing because of the elevation and has limited cell service/dining options, so bring a jacket and pack a picnic. Note: The climb to the top of the summit is relatively short + paved, but steep. Additional COVID-19 information.
Poinsett Bridge
🚘: ~40 min.
This bridge is believed to be the oldest surviving bridge in the state. If you’re searching for some medieval fall vibes, look no further.
Saluda
🚘: ~50 min.
We love visiting Saluda – the drive is beautiful, the town is quaint, and the tiramisu at The Purple Onion Cafe is something special. Time your visit to eat dinner at George Hincapie’s Restaurant 17 on your way back to town.
SC Botanical Garden
🚘: ~40 min.
This botanical garden near Clemson is perfect for you Tiger fans or anyone else looking to get outside this fall but not get too adventurous. Additional COVID-19 information.
Table Rock State Park
🚘: ~40 min.
This one speaks for itself. Table Rock is a well-known, local staple, because it has some of the best views around. Note: Hike is relatively strenuous. Additional COVID-19 information.
Tennent Mountain
🚘: ~2 hours
Tennent Mountain would be perfect to see some fall foliage at every turn. Keep this one in mind too for picking blueberries + blackberries when they’re in season.
Be sure to tag us in your pictures when you venture out to one of these local destinations (or any of the other special spots the Upstate has to offer).
Disclaimer: Travel estimates are based on distance from downtown Greenville. Be sure to check the individual park websites for hours, closures, and COVID-19 updates before heading out.
