Fall Leaf Outlook

Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

As the days of temperatures that reach into the mid 80s give way to the cooler days of fall, leaf watchers are eager to see some color. Last weeks burst of wet weather in the higher elevations slowed the march toward full color but this week there has been some progress in the tops of the Smoky Mountains. Those looking for red and burgundy hues will be happy to note that Sourwoods are turning nicely and witch hobble is burning burgundy. Dogwoods, even at the lower elevations, are turning and fuchsia seedpods of magnolia trees and oak acorns are in abundance.

While leaf watchers may still have to wait a couple of weeks for big color changes, other signs of fall are definitely in the air. Weekend foliage followers may want to take a detour this week to Cataloochee Valley or the Oconluftee Visitor Center to see the elks rut. For those that are looking for bear sightings, Cades Cove’s abundance of acorns is providing some spectacular picture opportunities.