Asheville Fall Color Report

Asheville Fall Color Report: Week of September 10

The 2025 Asheville Fall Color Forecast is in, and the outlook points to one of the longest and most vibrant leaf seasons in the Eastern U.S. Warm summer weather and a healthy forest canopy are setting the stage for brilliant reds, golds, and oranges that will unfold slowly across the Blue Ridge Mountains.

According to Dr. Howard Neufeld, Appalachian State University’s “Fall Color Guy,” ideal conditions — warm, sunny days paired with crisp, cool nights — could make this year’s show especially vivid and long-lasting. If September and October bring limited wind and heavy rain, expect Asheville’s foliage to truly shine.

Right now, higher elevations are still mostly green, but the first hints of color are beginning to show in spots above 5,000 feet. Expect the real shifts to start later this month as cool nights set in.

🍂 Asheville is known for having one of the nation’s longest fall color seasons, with leaves turning at different elevations from early fall into November.

👉 For a deeper look at what’s new this season — including expert insights, updates on trails and overlooks, and why this fall feels particularly special — check out the full 2025 Asheville Fall Color Forecast.

Views From the Field

Our Fall Color Hunters haven't yet taken to the field for 2025, but here are some photos and videos to get you inspired for what's to come.

Meet Asheville's 2025 Fall Color Hunters

Meet Asheville's Fall Color Hunters -- a group of talented local photographers passionate about capturing the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each week, they'll share updates on when and where to catch the region's best and brightest fall color, plus local insights on what to expect when visiting Asheville during the fall.