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For just a few weeks each year, certain parts of the United States present a breathtaking exhibition of the most vivid colors on Nature’s palette. People drive great distances just to see the show, as leaves make their annual change from summer’s green to their rich fall hues. In terms of pure, awe-inspiring natural beauty, there’s nothing else that even comes close.

Of course, in the South it’s the magnificent fall foliage North Carolina that’s the “must-see” on everyone’s calendar. That’s because the many elevation differences within relatively small areas allow for a much greater variety and a longer viewing season. The dramatic new colors appear first in the High Country around Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk elevations (3600 to 5000 feet) in late September or early October. And over the next few weeks, you see them work their way down to The Coves (1040 to 1700 elevation).

Residents at The Coves Mountain River Club know the Lenoir North Carolina weather is just perfect in the Fall as the leaves start to change. If you’re at The Coves’ Pisgah Mountain Lodge by Wilson Creek, you have a front row seat as the foliage of sugar maples and mountain maples begins turning to red, crimson and orange. Beech and yellow birch trees treat the viewer to a panorama of yellows. And you’ll notice even more red becoming visible on serviceberry, red oak and high-bush blueberry.

At the high Banner Elk elevation, you also get to see the local fall-flowering species that provide so much additional color. The yellow skunk goldenrod and roan goldenrod are in bloom, and wavy-haired aster and eastern agueweed and white-wood aster add some blue shades to the mix. Look for the reds of serviceberry, red oak, high-bush blueberry and mountain ash berry. As a natural backdrop to all this beauty, there are the native evergreens such as Fraser fir, red spruce and Catawba rhododendron.

One of the great things about fall foliage North Carolina is that there’s no “peak color” period as in other parts of the country. Again, because of the varying elevations, you can arrive any time between September and November and find plenty to see and do. The wonderful Lenoir North Carolina weather insures that whether you want to hike and enjoy the fresh air or take a scenic drive through a forest of stunning beauty, the high Banner Elk elevation offers you the best viewing experience and plenty of pleasant surprises. Imagine turning a corner and finding yourself suddenly standing at one of the many massive waterfalls, ten feet high or taller, framed by the most stunning combination of color you’ll ever encounter outdoors.

In addition to the the changing of the leaves and the iconic views, including Table Rock, Round Mountain and the South Mountains, the fall season in Western North Carolina is a celebration in itself, complete with pumpkin fests, corn mazes and warm apple cider. That’s why people who don’t live there yet keep returning year after year.

It’s also one of the reasons The Coves is a popular mountain community. Who wouldn’t want to wake up each morning surrounded by such spectacular natural vistas? And there are so many activities for residents to choose from. You’re living far enough away from the city to take advantage of hiking trails, lake and river activities, or just breathing in that fresh mountain air while basking lazily in the wonderful Lenoir North Carolina weather. But you’re still within easy driving distance of nearby towns and cities for shopping and cultural activities. No matter what your interests, you’ll find that owning a home at The Coves Mountain River Club offers you the kind of rich, rewarding life you’ve always dreamed you’d have.

By the way, if you’re planning a visit this fall, be sure to make your arrangements early. As at any popular vacation destination, the best bed and breakfasts, family-owned inns and hotel chains are booked up early and/or get more expensive as the season approaches.

And while you’re there, make time to stop and see us for a private tour. Enjoy a glass of wine and take pictures of some of the best views available of the stunning fall foliage North Carolina.  

Call us directly at 828.754.0700 to schedule a tour.

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84-page complimentary Western North Carolina Visitor’s Guide, which gives you more information about living in the foothills of North Carolina.