Let’s face it: we live in a drop-dead-gorgeous part of the world. When you drive around Murphy NC, Western North Carolina, and North Georgia, the tree-covered mountains and valleys literally take your breath away. Of course, the landscape changes colors throughout the all parts of the year, except for our reliable evergreens. However, there’s nothing like the brilliance of Fall’s fireworks show of reds, yellows, oranges, and everything in between.
In late September, many deciduous trees’ leaves have already changed from a bright to a muted green shade. Next, the leaves turn a striking orange, yellow, or red color, depending on the tree species. That’s the result of fall’s cooler weather that causes the leaves’ chlorophyll to break down, allowing those other pigments to emerge. Because the leaves don’t all change color at once, our residents and visitors have the privilege of searching for the perfect fall colors for weeks on end.
So how does the 2015 Leaf-Peeping Season look? Well, the experts at Western Carolina University predict an absolutely brilliant fall leaf season full of colors this year. Because leaves are taking in less water through their roots, they’re more likely to produce those stunning red pigments. Add a generally quiet hurricane season, and we’ve got the setup for some fall foliage for the history books. Although they predicted this earlier, we are quite hopeful last week’s rains don’t disappoint the show.
So when can you see these beautiful fall leaves? At elevations above 4,500 feet, you’ll see peak colors during the first two weeks of October. If you plan a trip through the Cherohala Skyway in Graham County, or hike to Wayah Bald and Wine Spring Creek in Macon County, you’ll likely get frame-worthy pictures.
As fall marches on, look for mid-elevation trees (from 2,500-4,500 feet) to put on their showiest costumes. During the third week of October, visit viewing spots along U.S. Route 64 in Macon and Clay counties. Consider the Standing Indian and Shooting Creek areas. In Graham County, NC Routes 28 and 143 from Fontana Village to Stecoah Gap should provide spectacular views.
Lower-elevation viewing will be more spotty, but should include some mid-elevation tree species. During mid/late October (and even early November), you’ll probably find some nice colors while driving along Joe Brown Highway in Murphy, NC or U.S. Route 64 in Cherokee County and Clay County.
Of course, the best part of a leaf-peeping trip is getting yourself back in one piece. Keep yourself and your family safe by pulling off to overlooks for videos and selfies. We want to see you for next year’s leaf-peeping season!
And while you’re here, you may decide to call these mountains home! Whether it be part time or full time, we can help you find your home in the mountains. So feel free to search all the available listings for sale in Murphy NC and surrounding or contact us and we will get you the perfect spot! We love it when we have new neighbors and help other discover every amazing season the mountains have to offer.
The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team