Fall Leaf Report for October 5 – October 12, 2015

Staff Photo by Angie Stanley

Last week was a wet one for the Great Smoky Mountains, East Tennessee, and North Carolina. Fortunately, there was little in the way of storms and high winds to shake the changing leaves to the ground, so the oncoming color was not impacted. Those looking for the best change of color will still have to travel to the higher elevations, but the good news is that if you make the trip, you should be rewarded. Newfound Gap is starting to burst with color, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is hitting full throttle.

Just like last week, it is still the early changers that are showing color, but it is more vibrant and widespread this week. Wildflowers are still adding to the mix and even if you don’t see any change of hue in the trees, the wildflowers in the mid and lower elevations are beautiful. This week is expected to bring sunny days and cool nights, with a cold front pouring in late in the week and a dip in temperatures. That should spur the color in the mid and lower elevations, as the trees continue their transformation into a picturesque mash of Fall colors.

If you are looking for a quick fix of color this week, head to the Chimney Tops or Alum Cave. There should be plenty to see, as Fall hues always start at the top of the mountain.