The Best Towns for Leaf Peeping in the South

By Kellie Walton 

Fall is in the air, marked by cool breezes, pumpkin spice lattes, and leaves changing from green to crimson and gold. One of the coziest times of year is also one of the best to travel, and seeking out cities that embody all the best autumn ambience is a sure way to soak in the season. Pack up your checkered flannel and grab a piping hot cup of coffee for the road, we’re putting together the ultimate list of southern cities that come alive with autumn views each year.  

From rolling mountains dotted with fall colors to bourbon-rich cities with towering trees, here are some of the south’s most prominent destinations for leaf peeping.  

Dahlonega, Georgia 

Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Dahlonega, Georgia, comes alive each fall with stunning foliage. Head to nearby Amicalola Falls State Park, which may be home to the highest waterfall in the state but is also regarded for its trails that route through towering hardwood trees. Hike to the falls for a dose of both water and autumn leaves. Also worth exploring is Chattahoochee National Forest, which offers excellent leaf peeping trails that can be explored either by car or foot. The forest crosses the Appalachian Trail, Vogel State Park, and the Southern Highroads Trail. For a dose of entertainment alongside your leaf peeping, head downtown to visit a strip of local shops and noteworthy restaurants lined with colorful trees.  

Dahlonega is also prominently known as a destination for wine lovers, and the Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery is an excellent option for warming up with a glass of red set to a backdrop of changing leaves to match.   
www.dahlonega.org  

Boone, North Carolina 

North Carolina’s mountain town of Boone is a destination no matter the season, with stunning scenery in warmer weather and a plethora of winter sports when a chill is in the air. The Blue Ridge Parkway routes through Boone, which is one of America’s most stunning drives that’s arguably most beautiful in the fall. Make plans to drive the Parkway, stopping at nearby Grandfather Mountain for some of the most stunning leaf peeping views in existence. Here, you can hike trails, cross the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, and take in all the colorful views.  

There are several parks worth visiting for an immersive fall experience, including Moses H. Cone Memorial Park near Blowing Rock, Julian Price Memorial Park (home to the stunning Price Lake), and Elk Knob State Park a short distance away.  

Downtown Boone is an excellent option all its own, home to charming shops and restaurants nestled in between all of the city’s natural beauty.  
www.exploreboone.com  
 

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 

Picture yourself sitting in an adirondack chair on the wraparound porch of a log cabin, with nothing in sight but autumn leaves and the smoke from a campfire in the distance. Does anything sound better once the season changes? Pigeon Forge is the place to be, with no shortage of cabins and chalets available to rent for travelers ranging from couples to multi-generational family reunions. While it may be tempting (and perfectly acceptable) to stay in your cozy cabin for the duration of your trip, plan to explore the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with drivable trails like the Cades Cove Loop Road or Newfound Gap Road. Foothills Parkway is another must, a winding route with unobstructed views of the forest.  

For a dose of adventure, visit Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, for a plethora of family fun. There are tons of rides and attractions ranging from thrill rides to live entertainment, like the brand-new Big Bear Mountain roller coaster or the zooming Barnstormer. There’s also an eagle sanctuary onsite and a dedicated playground for little travelers. While in Pigeon Forge, take the exploration a step further by booking a helicopter tour for the ultimate leaf peeping experience. 
www.mypigeonforge.com  

Asheville, North Carolina 

We’ve already discussed the allure of the Southeast’s Blue Ridge Parkway, which also routes through the North Carolina town of Asheville. Hop off the Parkway and explore the town, which is a premier southern destination in the fall. One of Asheville’s primary draws is its impressive craft brewery scene, so make plans to warm up with a pint (or two) of craft beer from prominent brands like Wicked Weed, Hi-Wire, and Green Man Brewery.  

Other points of interest in Asheville include the sprawling Biltmore Estate, a stunning mansion with surrounding gardens that show off their autumn hues each year. Visit the grounds and tour the mansion for stunning scenery. Be sure to also visit (or book a stay at) the Omni Grove Park Inn. The North Carolina Arboretum, a botanical garden south of the city, also offers stunning tree-lined trails that are a must-see each fall. 

The Pisgah National Forest is also worth a visit, home to scenic hiking trails like the Looking Glass Rock Trail and the Graveyard Fields Loop, which show off not only stunning fall colors, but also cascading waterfalls and mountain views. The towering Mount Mitchell State Park (the highest peak east of the Mississippi River) offers unparalleled panoramic views dotted with fall colors.  
www.exploreasheville.com 

Bardstown, Kentucky 

Kentucky is best known for its bourbon, and Bardstown is the place to be for the best of the best. It’s known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” after all. Warm up from the cold with tastings at nearby distilleries, which include famed brands like Makers Mark, Jim Beam, and Heaven Hill, before setting out on a scenic drive to enjoy all the best leaf peeping.  

Start at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, a 16,000-acre nature preserve packed with hardwood trees that show off their autumn hues. Opt for a guided tour for a more immersive experience. Then head to My Old Kentucky Home State Park, which features rows of manicured gardens and tree-lined pathways welcoming visitors to take a stunning walk through changing foliage. For those that prefer a drive, head any direction around Bardstown for guaranteed leaf peeping.  
visitbardstown.com  

Whitaker Point, Arkansas 

The Ozark National Forest is stunning all year long, but a visit in the fall is extra special thanks to its vast fall foliage. Packed with trees ranging from oaks to maples, hickories, and more, the fall colors are plenty throughout the entire area. Make plans to hike to Whitaker Point, which is accessible by a nearly three-mile hiking trail called the Whitaker Point Trail. The stunning journey winds through the forest and spits out adventurers at the iconic Hawksbill Crag, offering a panoramic reward that’s even more special in the fall atop a cliff that juts out over the canyon below.  

The journey crosses a wet-weather creek offering paths to both the left and right, either of which will lead to the crag. Throughout the trail are plenty of benches providing opportunities to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.  

To note, the Whitaker Point trail can be a bit rocky and steep, so be sure to take proper precautions with footwear and supplies when seeking out Hawksbill Crag. We can assure you, the view is well worth the walk.  
www.arkansas.com