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Few places in the North Carolina mountains have the variety of fall color leaf-viewing options of Banner Elk.
At 3,701 feet above sea level and surrounded by scenic peaks flush with native hardwoods, Banner Elk normally reaches peak color around the third or fourth weekend of October. Leaves begin to change in late September or early October, followed by a vivid progression that stretches into early November.
New in 2025 is the High Country Fall Road Trip, which includes a beautiful section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The driving tour starts in Banner Elk. It features several scenic locales in and around Banner Elk in the North Carolina High Country, including Crab Orchard Falls. To download the map, click here: High Country Fall Road Trip Map.
There are many different ways to view fall color in Banner Elk. One of the best vantage points is the Mile High Swinging Bridge atop Grandfather Mountain. People come from all over the East Coast each fall to take in the panoramic view from Grandfather.
Paddling enthusiasts bring their kayaks and canoes to soak in the splendor on Wildcat Lake, while others hike numerous trails in and around town. More than a half dozen trails at Grandfather Mountain — ranging from easy to strenuous — offer fall color viewing, while another popular place is the high-altitude Emerald Outback trail system.
An adrenaline rush of autumn color is available at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. The coaster, open daily throughout fall, follows a downhill track through a hardwood forest. Riders control the pace of their carts via hand brakes and can soak in views at a leisurely pace or by reaching speeds up to 27 miles per hour.
Banner Elk’s famous Woolly Worm Festival conducts woolly bear caterpillar races the third weekend of October. The races determine which worm receives the honor of forecasting the upcoming winter weather. Learn more about this unique fall festival by clicking here.
A trio of wineries — Banner Elk Winery, Grandfather Vineyard & Winery and Linville Falls Winery — offer outdoor seating with great views of fall color in the North Carolina mountains. Even a simple stroll along the Banner Elk Greenway yields spectacular viewing options.
Another nice thing about a fall leaf-looking visit to Banner Elk is the town’s proximity to peak fall color from early October through early November.
A 15-minute drive in early October up to Beech Mountain puts you at peak color because of its 5,506-foot elevation. In early November, you can drive about 30 minutes down to the Linville Caverns area to view peak colors.
When the autumnal day is done, settle into comfortable lodging and indulge in delicious cuisine from a number of eateries. A bountiful food selection gives Banner Elk its nickname of “the Culinary Hot Spot of the NC High Country.”
For a list of lodging options, click here.