mid fall scenic drives

In mid-fall, the fall color is moving to new elevations and there are many splendid scenic drives and day trips for soaking in the autumn beauty. Here is some suggested fall scenic drives for early to late October.

Waterfall Country

From Asheville, head south on the Blue Ridge Parkway and exit onto US 276, following it south. Along the way, stop by Sliding Rock, the Cradle of Forestry with its many interpretive exhibits and special programs, and Looking Glass Falls. The Looking Glass Rock trailhead (parking on the left), provides access to a 3.1 mile trail set amidst brilliant fall color. Continue on 276 to NC 280 north to NC 191 along the banks of the French Broad River past the Biltmore Square Mall and the Western North Carolina Farmers Market and on into Asheville.

Hot Springs

Take a trip to Hot Springs via NC 63 west through Leicester and to Trust, where NC 209 intersects with NC 63. Take NC 209 north to Hot Springs and return by following US 25/70 to Weaverville, and connect with I-26 which leads back to Asheville.

Maggie Valley and Cherokee

US 19 from Maggie Valley to Cherokee boasts several excellent leaf-viewing sites. To get there take US 19/23/74 west from Asheville. A return trip to Asheville via US 276 through the Pisgah National Forest to the Blue Ridge Parkway offers many overlooks from which to enjoy the autumn panorama.