Watch Them Change

Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

As the month of October moves quickly toward Halloween, oranges are bursting out everywhere with even the valley beginning to burn bright with color. Wet weather has impacted the streams in the Great Smoky Mountains and high winds in the highest elevations have stripped some of the leaves early. Those seeking maximum color should climb to the mid elevations this week, as they currently at the peak of color. Alum Cave and The Chimneys are a great place to see the changing hues, as well as Cades Cove and Abram’s Falls. Color watchers that are looking for a nice drive should check out New Found Gap Road, as it is reported to be bright with color.

In the valley, peak is still several days away, however peaks of what will be are showing up in the some maples and the vines are burning bright red. By the time trick or treaters are donning their costumes, the entire valley should be alive with organs, reds and yellows.