North Carolina Fall Foliage 2025: Peak Color Expected in Late October for Mountains, Early November in Piedmont

CHARLOTTE, NC – Fall is fast approaching, and North Carolina residents are already asking when the leaves will hit peak color this year. According to WCNC’s seasonal outlook, peak foliage across the mountains is expected on October 22, with the Charlotte area and Piedmont following in early November.

Mountain Colors Peak First

On average, the North Carolina mountains reach their peak in mid-to-late October, with higher elevations such as Boone and Blowing Rock seeing color changes earlier in the month. This year’s forecast points to Oct. 22 as the date when the Blue Ridge Parkway should be at its most vibrant.

A combination of factors determines just how spectacular the colors are — cool nights, sunny days, and steady soil moisture. Without those, leaves risk turning brown and falling early.

Charlotte and Piedmont Lag Behind

In the Charlotte metro and Piedmont, peak foliage usually lags a few weeks behind the mountains. This year, the best time to see fall colors in those areas is expected around Nov. 3, giving residents a bit more time to plan weekend drives and hikes.

An NWS forecaster explained,

“If we get crisp nights without an early freeze, paired with plenty of sunshine, the colors will be brilliant. But if storms or warm spells stick around, the timing could shift.”

Stress Showing Up in Some Trees

Even before September, forecasters have noticed what they call “foliage stress” in parts of western North Carolina. In Boone, for example, orange and yellow leaves have been spotted weeks ahead of schedule. Experts say drought, flooding, or strong winds can pressure trees, forcing them to change color or shed leaves too early.

A Boone resident observed,

“It feels like the season is starting early this year. Some of the trees in my yard are already dropping leaves.”

Tourism Tied to Fall Color

This year’s leaf season is especially significant for mountain communities still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s flooding and damage. Local businesses, particularly small shops, restaurants, and lodges, are counting on fall tourism to help drive economic recovery, WCNC reported.

Do you plan to visit North Carolina’s mountains this fall to see the foliage and support local businesses? Share your plans in the comments and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.