The fall leaves of the mountains of Western North Carolina have enticed visitors from all across the nation for many years. When the first hint of cooler weather strikes, the top questions to be heard are always regarding the peak of color and where are the best spots to view the display. Hotel reservations are made and travel plans secured to witness the show that could be equated to the northern lights.
This year the progression has been slowed down somewhat due to the sunny days. Peak fall colors are expected to be within the next week to ten days. Because the color begins at the mountain tops and works its way slowly down the mountain, the lower elevations will hang on for another couple of weeks. Scenic overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway that allow many long range looks into the valleys should hold out until early November.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you plan to visit the Western North Carolina Mountains this year for the end of the fall leaf performance. Such as plan your visit during the week to avoid the weekend throngs of people and the unavailability of accommodations. Many seasoned leaf lookers book their reservations for the next year as they check in/out this year. Also, plan to take a hike through one of the lower elevation trails. Get off the road and experience nature first hand. There are many suggestions to be found on the internet. Remember that fog occurs early in the day, so plan any higher elevations activities to include a lunch picnic. There are many locations that will include a picnic table to embrace the brilliant color show. If you plan to drive up into the mountains, be prepared with a light jacket or sweater as well as a full tank of gas! And never travel without a map! GPS’s are nice to have but the mountains can be tricky! Cameras and binoculars are also a must. Another thing to consider is wearing polarized sunglasses as it will certainly enhance the experience.
Within a short drive there are a host of restaurants in both Maggie Valley and Waynesville to satisfy the taste buds wanting anything from pancakes to fine dining. Joey’s Pancake House is very well known and loved by all as well as The Salty Dog and many others. After you quench your appetite, there are many activities throughout the area. Enjoy your visit Maggie Valley with a friendly game of mini golf, or go mining at the Gem Mine. Relive the past with a visit to the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum or visit the Maggie Valley Opry House. There are so many things to do you will have to return to do them all.
For an interesting change to renting a motel room, you may consider a cabin. Johnson Branch Cabins are beautiful chalets nestled in the heart of Maggie Valley. Here you could reside in the presence of the dazzling array of foliage quickly changing in the WNC Mountains. Don’t wait around and miss the peak of color! Call today!