Are you looking for the best spots for fall foliage in the Charlotte area? We are lucky to live so close to the mountains and have so many great spots for leaf-peeping! We've listed our family's favorite places to see autumn leaves that are just a short drive. We love hiking and visiting parks so included those in our list of where to see fall leaves.
Want to know when fall colors will be at their peak in the NC mountains? Check out this fall foliage prediction map from SmokyMountains.com. Simply move the slider at the bottom of the map to get an idea of when leaves will be at peak colors in the Charlotte area and across the United States. No map like this can be 100 percent accurate, of course, but it can give you a good idea of when fall colors will peak.
Here are my family's favorite spots for leaf-peeping in the Charlotte area:
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Chimney Rock State Park
Easy hikes and beautiful views make Chimney Rock a must for fall peeping. Chimney Rock offers programming as well so there is plenty to do while you are there.
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Lake Norman State Park
A short drive from the Charlotte area, Lake Norman State Parks offers hikes, bike trails, and a nature center. There are restrictions in place so please check out their website before heading out.
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Hanging Rock State Park
Just a heads up, their visitors center will be closed starting Oct 5 but the park is still open. In addition to fall leaves, you can fish, rent a canoe, and hike.
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Grandfather Mountain
So much more than just the bridge, Grandfather Mountain is one of the most beautiful spots in the NC mountains. In addition to fall leaves, you can hike, check out daily programs, and visit the nature museum.
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Mt. Pisgah
Mt. Pisgah, is close to Ashville which makes it the perfect start to a quick mountain overnight or day trip. There are several hikes and easy trails nearby which make it an easy visit for families with kids of all ages.
