Leaf Watchers Updates
September 12th, 2006
October 29th, 2007 - Although we have been experiencing a dry summer with drought conditions, there is good news! The leaves are displaying brilliant colors this year…just a little later than usual. This year brings an extended “leaf season” with color continuing through the first week in November and possibly further, depending upon elevation.
These photos were taken October 20th and show colors dominated by the deep reds of Dogwood, Sumac and Sassafras trees. Last week’s cooler evening temperatures produced additional and brighter colors including oranges and yellows from Beech, Poplar, Oak and Maples. Take a look at the beautiful yellow colors on this Beech tree found in the parking lot of Chestoa View. The distance view of Short Off Mountain is dominated by greens and reds. Look closely and you will see the Orchard at Altapass in the distance ahead of the red Sassafras trees. These photos were taken on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Mileposts 315 and 345.
The lower elevations are also changing. The lake photo was taken inside the city limits of Marion. Both Old Fort and Marion have colors popping out everywhere! The less traveled back-roads of Highway 80 and Lake James have displayed approximately fifty percent of their colors. Fishermen have a spectacular view of the mountain colors this time of year, particularly during the third and fourth weeks of October. Lake James’ water levels are down, however, the fishing is good and the views of the Linville Mountain region are even better.
Fall is an excellent time of year to combine leaf watching with historical attractions. The above photograph of Andrews’ Geyser is a great example. The public park is lined with a variety of tree species inside the Pisgah National Forest. The North Carolina Civil War Trail marker shown here describes one of the last skirmishes of the war. The trail is close by.
When planning a visit for local color, review this page and/or contact our office at 888-233-6111. The dry summer conditions will affect this year’s “leaf season” and changes take place at different times at different elevations. Information is also available on the N.C. State tourism site, www.visitnc.com and click on the fall foliage report.
When planning a leaf hike, please keep these conditions in mind:
Please do not feed wild animals, particularly bears. When you see young animals, particularly bear cubs, without a mother it may be tempting to offer them food. They have not been abandoned, the mother is close by. Doing so creates dangerous circumstances for the animals as well as for the humans. Following hiking guidelines and regulations creates a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The hiking guide is in our directory along with maps to identify the various regions of the county.
HUNTING SEASON - GUNS are allowed beginning November 19th through December 14th. When planning a hike, be sure to wear bright colors, preferably orange. Pick up a copy of the North Carolina Wildlife Commission’s guidebook listing all hunting and fishing areas in the state. This is helpful information when planning a hike. Copies are available at our visitor center in the Old Fort Train Depot or at the McDowell Visitor Center located on the Highway 221/226 By-pass. Call our office at 888-233-6111 or your destination site for more details.