Leaf Report Update – Colors Rapidly Advancing

Smoky Mountain National Park
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

October is finally here and it has brought a spurt of cold weather that is rapidly advancing the changing of hues in the local region. The highest elevations of the Smoky Mountains will enjoy full peak this week, according to the Great Smoky Mountain Association. Reds are burning bright and yellows are plentiful in the higher elevations, thanks to the Yellow Birch and Maple trees changing.

In the lower elevations, change in also occurring though not as rapidly. Here, the cold snap has also helped pick up the pace and some real color is finally making its way into the area. Expert leaf watchers are still predicting a late October and early November peak in the valley but some real color has begun peaking out from Black Walnuts, Sourwoods and Virginia Creeper. A little rain and continued cooling are expected to aid the color change.

Those that are looking for the best and brightest hues should head to the highest elevations this week. Suggested spots for avid watchers are Balsam Mountain Road, Clingmans Dome Road or Little River Road. The more energetic leaf enthusiasts should consider a hike around Thomas Divide Trail.