Autumn Arrives Late along the Black Mountains

In past years, October 11th would have been the peak of color along the high ridges facing the iconic Black Mountain range, home to Mt. Mitchell, the tallest peak of all. Not this year. Although the colors have begun to roll down from the higher slopes, they are still five to seven days away from their maximum.

With a ridge line above 6,000 feet, the Black Mountains are still the most impressive east of the Rockies.

Above the Blue Ridge Parkway, a few trees are at their peak, but below 4,500 feet, everything is late this year.

The woods are showing much yellow, but the dramatic reds and vermillions are only occasionally seen.

Green is still a dominate color on the steep slopes.

Puffy clouds of fair weather float just above the treetops, casting dark shadows over the forests below.

Wait a few more days before you visit this portion of the Parkway. Next weekend should be really beautiful, with pockets of bright color lasting through October 25th. After a dry summer, the colors should be brighter and deeper than ever, once they actually arrive.

Tags: Appalachian Mountains, autumn, Black Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

• October 12, 2015
• Black Mountains
• 2 Comments