Fall in North Carolina is truly something special. With all the autumn colors and the rustic scenery, it makes for a perfect time to get outside and explore some more of what this beautiful state has to offer! I highly encourage you to add some of these things to your fall bucket-list this year!
1. Take a drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best spots to see the leaves changing during fall! Typically, mid to late October is when you can see the best fall colors. Although, this can vary depending on your elevation. (Higher elevation areas tend to see color changes earlier than lower elevation areas!)
Here are some overlooks you can stop at along the Blue Ridge Parkway!
Caney Fork
Fork Ridge
Roy Taylor Forest
Wash Creek Valley
Cove Field Ridge
2. Visit Max Patch Mountains
Max Patch, located in the Pisgah National Forest, is a beautiful 350 acre stretch of open land that sits at 4,629 feet tall. It is one of the most popular Appalachian trail hikes in North Carolina, known for its expansive grassy summit and incredible panoramic views. It makes for the perfect spot to have a picnic, catch a sunrise or a sunset, play some frisbee, hike, or simply take in the beautiful North Carolina mountain scenery. The main trail is a moderate, 1.5 mile loop full of tall, wispy grass, wildflowers, wild blueberries, and blackberries and — during October — all the beautiful fall colors!
3. Hike at Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell, standing at 6,684 feet tall, is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. An observation deck allows for visitors to see the incredible scenic views that this high elevation has to offer. There are several trails to hike, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the trails extend into the Pisgah National Forest and lead to backpacking sites. Mount Mitchell offers hiking, picnicking, tent sites (for backpackers only), firewood, and seasonal amenities such as: concessions, a restaurant, a classroom, and a lounge.
4. Check out Some of NC's Waterfalls
North Carolina has hundreds of waterfalls to check out. Here is a list of some of my personal favorites for the fall!
Looking Glass Falls: This is a 60 ft. waterfall that's located in Brevard, North Carolina. It is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in our state, and October is a popular time to visit because of the leaves' colors!
Dry Falls: A 75-ft. tall waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest. It flows over a cliff, allowing you to walk behind the falls and stay dry! For peak fall colors, visit Dry Falls during the second week of October!
Whitewater Falls: The highest waterfall east of the Rockies, with a 411 ft. plunge! The fall colors really highlight the waterfall, making it a must-see during the fall!
Crabtree Falls: Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, this waterfall is at the top of many people's lists because of its photogenic qualities. The bright lighting, heavy waterfall, and surrounding fall foliage make for a perfect fall photo!
5. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Visiting a pumpkin patch is arguably one of the most popular fall traditions. Many of us pick pumpkins to carve jack-o-lanterns, bake homemade pumpkin pies, or use them in fall displays. Luckily, North Carolina has so many pumpkin patches to choose from! Whether you're looking to stay in the Union County area or stop by a pumpkin patch on your trip to the mountains, here's a list of pumpkin patches to visit for fun fall activities, including pumpkin picking, hay rides, corn mazes, and apple picking!
Located in/around Union County:
The Union Exchange: 2022 New Town Rd, Monroe, NC 28110
Hunter Farm: 13624 Providence Rd, Weddington, NC 28104
Wise Acres Organic Farm: 701 Hartis Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079
Country Daze Corn Maze: 416 Joe Lee Helms Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079
Hall Family Farm: 45 W Rebound Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720 Hodges Family Farm: 3780 Rocky River Road, East Charlotte NC 28215
Simpson's Pumpkins & Trees: 7661 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Charlotte, NC 28226
Located in the NC Mountains:
Grandad's Apples: 2951 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
The Nix Pumpkin Patch: 3726 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
New River Corn Maze: 556 Laurel Gap Ridge, Boone, NC 28607
Harvest Farm: 3287 NC 194 Valle Crucis, NC 28691
Lantern Farm: Doe Meadows Dr, West Jefferson, NC 28694
Steps Hillcrest Orchard: 170 Stepp Orchard Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28792
6. Try Some Fall Goods from a Local Cafe
photo credits: @rawcrunchandcoffee on instagram
Fall treats are the best, and there are several local cafes that offer some amazing fall treats. From baked goods to pumpkin spice lattes, there's something for everyone!
Shopping local is always a good idea! You're helping give back to your community by supporting local businesses, plus it's a fun way to try new things and find your new go-to spots for all the perfect fall goodies!
Here are a couple places to check out:
Raw Crunch and Coffee: Raw Crunch and Coffee is an organic coffee shop located in Indian Trail, NC. They offer organic house-made syrups, organic milks, and locally roasted, organic coffee blends. They are also the makers of Raw Crunch® bars: handmade nutrition bars made from real food such as nuts and seeds. Pictured above is their Pumpkin Spice Latte & Organic Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Raw Crunch® bar.
Burr & Berry Coffee: Burr & Berry is listed as one of the top 100 Coffee shops in the US by Yelp. They are an independent drive-thru and walk-up coffee shop, with two locations, one in Indian Land and one in Charlotte! Although they offer seasonal flavorings all year long, they just finished launching their three special Pumpkin Weekly Signatures! They also partner with other local businesses to sell delicious baked goods such as: donuts, croissants, muffins, pastries, & more!
photo credits: @burryandberrycoffee on instagram
Pictured here is their Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffin Cold Brew, paired with their best-selling pastry: their fresh and locally-baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffin, which can be enjoyed all year round.
They have SO many unique treats & drinks, so check out their instagram @burrandberrycoffee to find out more!
I hope my fall bucket-list gives you some inspiration for what to add to your personal bucket-list! I know life can get hectic, especially during this time of year, but try to find time to embrace this wonderful change of seasons. NC's falls are beautiful, so you don't want to miss out!