RCW Fall Leaf Color Report – Week of September 1, 2025

Fall color season is officially underway in the mountains of western North Carolina. While most areas remain green, the first splashes of red are beginning to appear, especially in the High Country and Great Smoky Mountains. Dogwoods, sourwoods, and blackgums are leading the way with subtle reds and burgundy tones.

In the High Country around Boone, Blowing Rock, and Grandfather Mountain, color is about 5%—noticeable but far from peak. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway between Asheville and Linville, early pops can be seen at waterfalls and overlooks, but the canopy remains mostly green. The Smokies are also around 5%, with dogwoods brightening valley edges and the elk rut adding to the fall atmosphere.

Closer to home, the foothills from Morganton to the South Mountains are just starting to show hints of change (2%), while the Yadkin Valley and Uwharrie range remain almost fully green. In Rowan County, color change is less than 1%, limited to a few red dogwoods and blackgums along roadsides and neighborhoods. The peak window for our area is still weeks away, typically late October into mid-November.

With cooler nights setting in and no major wind events yet, conditions look favorable for a vibrant season ahead. Expect color to ramp up quickly by mid-September in the highest elevations.

Where to Go Now: For early season views, head to Rough Ridge, Beacon Heights, or Mt. Mitchell. In the Smokies, Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap are worth the drive. Locally, Sloan Park and Dunn’s Mountain offer the earliest Rowan County glimpses.

Stay tuned for next week’s update as the mountains take their first big leap toward peak fall color.