2020 Fall Foliage Schedule & Fall Leaf Forecast for Asheville, N.C.

In the coming weeks, the brisk mountain air will help paint the leaves of the Blue Ridge Mountains in brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges.

The first hints of fall typically arrive in the mountains in late September. The fall leaf season often extends well into the month of November.

In general, the fall leaf schedule begins with color showing in highest elevations (above 6,000 feet). Fall color then makes its way down the mountain sides into the valleys and foothills during the following weeks. Check out our interactive fall color map to see the fall color progression for yourself.

Not only is fall a time for beautiful foliage, it's one of the most exciting times of the year in terms of festivals, events and openings. Please note that with social distancing guidelines, some events may be canceled or have different offerings in 2020.

And, check out our guide to the top 10 ways to experience fall in Asheville. As you plan your visit, here are five things to know about fall in Asheville.   

When is peak fall color?

That's the question many visitors ask us each year. The answer may surprise you! 

There is no single peak time for fall color in the Asheville area. That's one of our top 5 things you need to know about fall in Asheville. 

The development of fall color is largely dependent on elevation. Because there is such a wide variety of elevations near town, Asheville enjoys one of the longest and most vibrant fall color seasons in the nation. The timing of the fall color change also depends on the species of trees and plants found in each area. See our guide to the science behind fall color to learn more! 

Visualize the progression of fall color through the Blue Ridge Mountains with our interactive fall color map and schedule.

How can I receive fall color reports by email?

Sign up using the form on this page! 

The color reports will help keep you up to date on where to find the best and the brightest colors during your visit. Even if you're not planning a vacation during fall, you'll find lots of travel inspiration in the form of photos, recommended drives and hikes and fun events and festivals.

Scroll down to read our weekly report and, during the fall season, to find out what events and activities are happening this week in Asheville.

ASHEVILLE FALL COLOR REPORT

As we gear up for the 2020 fall color season, we are looking back on the beautiful 2019 season! Thank you for following along with us last season, and for sharing your beautiful photos of this special time in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Our weekly fall color reports will resume in September 2020.

Please join us in looking back at some of our favorite photos of the 2019 season. And, be sure to scroll down to see our favorite photos submitted by our fans on Instagram!

Highway 276 winds through Pisgah National Forest. Photo taken October 29, 2019 by Jason Tarr.

A stand of colorful trees near Mills River. Photo by Jason Tarr October 29, 2019

A colorful mountain ridge as seen from the East Fork Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo taken October 29, 2019 by Jason Tarr. 

Two young children play under golden trees at the North Carolina Arboretum. Photo taken October 29, 2019 by Jason Tarr. 

Colorful leaves float in water at Graveyard Fields on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo taken October 16, 2019 by Jason Tarr.

Looking Glass Rock is framed by fall color at the Pounding Mill Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo taken October 14, 2019 by Jason Tarr. 

Golden hour light illuminates the foliage at Rough Ridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo taken October 12, 2019 by Jason Tarr.

Fall color as seen from the entrance ticketing gate at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Photo taken November 6, 2019 by Jason Tarr. 

Fall surrounds Chimney Rock as seen from Pulpit Rock at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Photo taken November 6, 2019 by Jason Tarr.

How can I experience fall in Asheville this week?

Check back as we get closer to the 2020 fall color season!

See fall fan photos from 2019 below!

Share your photos with us throughout the season by using #VisitAsheville when you post!