Autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway

It’s the height of color on the south end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

 

We cruised from Balsam to Asheville this weekend with some friends of ours, and every curve, every ridge we rounded brought another gorgeous riot of color.

 

The weather had been specially ordered for our enjoyment; the blue sky and crisp autumn air complimented the natural show perfectly.

 

We couldn’t help but stop at almost every pull-out, because each scenic overlook brought a unique perspective on the vibrant valleys and ridges.

 

Probably partially due to the reopening of facilities on the Parkway after the government shutdown, partially due to the fantastic weather, and partially to the timing of fall color, but the scenic highway was extra busy, overlooks and pull-offs packed with visitors.

 

This section of the Parkway contains the very highest point along the entire 469 mile stretch, at 6,047 feet. The 360˚ views from Devils Courthouse were also worth a mention.

 

What a difference a month makes, the changes visible since our Labor Day visit were astonishing! Another month and the branches will be bare, only evergreens adding color to the winter landscape. We’ll have to return for yet another glimpse into the many faces of this national treasure…