RCW Fall Leaf Color Report – Weekend of October 17–19, 2025

Fall color has moved down the mountains, creating one of the most colorful weekends of the season across western North Carolina. The High Country is now past peak, with most ridge leaves dropping but strong color lingering in valleys. The Blue Ridge Parkway from Linville to Asheville is at peak, glowing with oranges, golds, and reds—an ideal stretch for weekend drives.

In the Great Smoky Mountains, color is also peaking, providing rich ridge-to-valley contrast and great photo opportunities. The Foothills are next in line, sitting around 55–65% color with excellent viewing in the South Mountains and around Lake James.

Closer to home, Rowan County is showing around 20–25% color, with dogwoods, red maples, and blackgums creating beautiful pops of red and orange. Neighborhoods, parks, and lake areas are turning noticeably more vibrant each day.

With mild afternoons, cool mornings, and light breezes, this is one of the best weekends of fall to explore color across the region.

Where to Go This Weekend:

• Blue Ridge Parkway (Linville to Asheville section)

• South Mountains State Park

• Dunn’s Mountain & High Rock Lake in Rowan County