It's that time of year again. The days are shorter, the nights are getting a little cold and the leaves are starting to change color. From October and usually lasts about six weeks, the leaves will change to red, orange, yellow, brown and other colors too numerous to mention.

Whether 're an experienced "Hound of the road or planning their first tour of fall foliage, the questions are the same. Where to find more colors vibrant? That roads and scenic roads offer the best opportunities for your viewing pleasure? Where are the best places to watch the show?

The best places to see autumn colors bright and stunning mountain views are inspiring here in the mountains of western North America Carolina. The hills and mountains around Asheville is recognized worldwide for his "act of autumn color. This area is constantly posts high on "best places to visit" list because it's natural beauty and southern charm. Many believe that fall is the best time to be here.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a perennial favorite. Breath-taking panoramic views and the road carpet of forests are abundant in this timeless oasis. But if you are driving keep your eyes on the road. The stunningly beautiful sights along this unit can be very distracting. And in those elevations, not to run off the road. Stop in the so-called "viewpoints" to take his eye turn or switch drivers occasionally if possible. During leaf season the Blue Ridge Parkway can become a little tight. For off the beaten path you might consider the drive through Hickory Nut Gorge, or The Pacolet River Scenic Byway.

In early October the leaves start to change in the higher elevations along the Parkway, beginning around Mount Mitchell, highest peak east of the river Mississippi. , Following the path you will find campsites, picnic areas, trails, waterfalls and recreation areas. The Parkway also passes right through Asheville, so there is a wide range of interesting destinations and nearby shopping.

Popular destinations include North Asheville Grandfather Mountain Linville Falls and along U.S. 221 near Boone, Craggy Gardens on the highway, and Roan Mountain on the Tennessee border. West can Nantahala River rafting, see the largest dam on this side of the Rocky Mountains in Fontana Lake, or climb up to "Cold Mountain" made famous by the book and film of the same name. Also west of Asheville are the towns of Cherokee and Maggie Valley, which offers a wide range of Indian crafts and eclectic shops. To the southeast, near Hendersonville, you'll find Lake Lure, (where "Dirty Dancing" was filmed), and Chimney Rock Park, which boasts one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, in 404 meters .. And southwest of Asheville, near Brevard, several popular amusements, such as the Dupont State Forest, Looking Glass Falls, and the Forest Discovery Center in Cradle of Forestry Historic Site.

More near Asheville, color views abound at Mount Pisgah and Graveyard Fields along the boulevard. Magnificent views architecture and aesthetics are combined in Biltmore House and Grove Park Inn. For a variety of native vegetation nearby, stop in at the Carolina Botanical Garden North, just off the Parkway at mile 393 or the Botanical Gardens of Asheville, near UNCA.

Driving through a great way to see lots color, but you can get more out of it if you are totally immersed in the experience. As mentioned earlier, you can take a walk or go rafting in under colorful canopies. You can enjoy a panoramic train trip in the Great Smoky Mountains Railway in Dillsboro, or if you want a completely different, you could find yourself flying into account above all in a hot air balloon. Remember that you may have to book most of these trips in advance.

If you plan a visit overnight, remember that local presentation also becomes very crowded. Consider making reservations at the advance or plan their trips Sunday through Thursday, if possible. You may even want to stay in places a little further away from the busiest routes.

Items you may want to bring along include a warm jacket, camera, food, drinks, a cooler, a map, a cell phone and perhaps binoculars. And remember to top off your gas tank once in a while.

The Mountains of North Carolina are definitely the place you want to be when the leaves are changing. But beware, once here, you may never want to leave.

About the Author:

James Rice is a lifelong resident of western North Carolina. Visit
Leaf Links
for links to resources with more detailed fall foliage information, including more scenic drives and destinations. Also try the
NCmountainfun.com
home page for more area attractions.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – The Best Places to See Spectacular Fall Leaf Colors

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