RCW Fall Leaf Color Report – Week of September 13, 2025

Fall color season is taking its first real step forward across western North Carolina. The High Country is now showing 20–25% color at elevations above 4,500 feet, with red maples, sourwoods, dogwoods, and blackgums providing splashes of burgundy and crimson. Leaf drop is around 10% in exposed areas, but valleys are still mostly green.

Along the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville through Linville, color remains in the 10% range, with scattered dogwoods and yellowing poplars. In the Great Smoky Mountains, color is more noticeable—about 15%—with a striking mix of green, red, and yellow. Cataloochee Valley is also buzzing with elk rut activity.

In the foothills, change is just beginning. South Mountains State Park and Lake James are showing early dogwood and hickory hints, while Stone Mountain and Pilot Mountain remain largely green. Rowan County has only the first 1–2% of color—mostly roadside dogwoods and blackgums.

With cool nights and healthy foliage, the setup remains favorable for a strong color season. Expect the mountains to accelerate quickly over the next week, especially at higher elevations.

Where to Go This Weekend: Rough Ridge and Beacon Heights (BRP) are excellent early spots. In the Smokies, Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome offer patchy but colorful views. Locally, Sloan Park and Dunn’s Mountain are starting to show their first signs.

Stay tuned for next week’s report as western NC moves closer to peak color.