Fall Leaf Report for October 14 – 19, 2015

Staff Photo by Angie Stanley

It looks like the weather will be cooperating this weekend and color should continue to move into the mid and lower elevations in the area. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park began to show some hue changes late last week. Though Cades Cove has yet to have widespread color change, the drive to the cove had significantly more color. Yellows were predominate but a whisper of orange and red could be detected, offering a promise for what is quickly coming. The highest elevations are peaking and some are even slightly past peak, but don’t fear because the Fall foliage show is nowhere near over yet.

A significant cooling this weekend is expected to pick up the pace even in the valley, so by early next week the color difference should be significant. Trails near Tremont will make for a nice hike this week. But, in actuality, even the most faint changing of the hues make for a pretty picture and the forecast this week is near perfect for a hike or leisure drive. As it is only now mid-October, it appears that the picturesque, signature Autumn landscape may peak a bit early this year. Be sure to take advantage of all of the beautiful colors that will be blanketing the area, as cool nights and mild days usher in the best of Fall!

Staff Photo by Angie Stanley