{"id":28529,"date":"2026-08-26T17:33:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-26T21:33:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/?p=28529"},"modified":"2026-08-26T17:40:19","modified_gmt":"2026-08-26T21:40:19","slug":"north-carolina-fall-foliage-forecast-and-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2026\/08\/north-carolina-fall-foliage-forecast-and-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"North Carolina Fall Foliage: Expert Forecast and Guide for 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-lead wp-block-paragraph\">Every year, as summer fades, North Carolina\u2019s forests transform into a vibrant display of red, orange and yellow leaves \u2014 a seasonal spectacle that draws millions of tourists to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re wondering when fall foliage will begin in North Carolina in 2026 and how long it will last, the timeline might look a little different than in previous years due to drought, warmer temperatures and excessive rain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These conditions are projected to lean toward above-normal in many parts of the state through November and may create less than favorable conditions for fall foliage, delaying and even muting the color change in parts of the mountains, Piedmont and Coastal Plain.<\/p>\n\n\n<aside class=\"right-aside wp-block-ncst-aside-widget\">\n    \n<a \n    class=\"has-custombg-three-text-color ncst-fact wp-block-ncst-aside-fact\"\n    href=\"https:\/\/herbarium.ncsu.edu\/tnc\/list.htm\"\n          >\n      <span class=\"ncst-icon\">\n            <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M287.38,490.81V398.65a109.71,109.71,0,0,1-22.53-21.09A138.53,138.53,0,0,1,225.13,391v99.94L207.92,512H305l-17.41-21.09Z\"\/><path d=\"M511.1,289.71a51.19,51.19,0,0,0-35.53-48.94,77.51,77.51,0,0,0-37.78-133.11,56.83,56.83,0,0,0-90.51-68.19,67.17,67.17,0,0,0-119.49-5.63A94.71,94.71,0,0,0,85.67,156.71a56.91,56.91,0,0,0-39,46.17A56.93,56.93,0,0,0,34.88,310.8v1a41,41,0,0,0,69.43,30.71A134.54,134.54,0,0,0,268.13,366.2a104.86,104.86,0,0,0,166.49,3.68,41.19,41.19,0,0,0,65.63-48A51.19,51.19,0,0,0,511.1,289.71Z\"\/><\/svg>\n    <\/span>\n              <h2 class=\"fact__heading\">Leaf It to North Carolina<\/h2>\n            <p class=\"fact__support\">\n              The state boasts dozens of tree species that contribute to fall foliage.\n          <\/p>\n        <p class=\"fact__cta\">\n      <span class=\"text\">Read more<\/span><span class=\"arrow-indicator\"><svg class=\"wolficon wolficon-arrow-right-bold\" role=\"img\"  aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<use xlink:href=\"#wolficon-arrow-right-bold\">\n\t\t<\/svg><\/span>\n    <\/p>\n    <\/a>\n\n\n  <\/aside>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cI expect to see a patchwork of fall colors across North Carolina this year,\u201d said\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/rebardon\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/rebardon\/\">Robert Bardon<\/a>, a professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University. \u201cFrom region to region, people may see quite a bit of variation.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bardon, who also serves as the associate dean for Extension in the College of Natural Resources, has been forecasting North Carolina&#8217;s fall foliage season for over a decade, providing reliable predictions that help communities and visitors plan for the peak of the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the following FAQ, Bardon breaks down what fall foliage might look like for each region, when to expect peak foliage and key conditions that can both help and hurt foliage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2026 Fall Foliage Forecast for North Carolina<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1.png\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"A close-up of several maple leaves turning from green to orange and red, hanging from a branch against a blurred background of blue sky and green foliage.\" class=\"wp-image-43389\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1.png 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by trongnguyen\/stock.adobe.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Piedmont:<\/strong> This region may have some of the less favorable conditions for vibrant, long-lasting foliage. Above-normal temperatures across the region could delay color change, while ongoing drought may stress trees and lead to premature leaf drop or muted colors. Southern areas also have a tilt toward above-normal precipitation, which could help ease drought but may add to variability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Coastal Plain:<\/strong> Conditions are similarly mixed. Above-normal temperatures could delay the onset of fall color, while drought across most of the region could stress trees. However, the northeastern Coastal Plain stands out because it is largely outside the current drought area, potentially giving trees there better conditions for vibrant foliage. Southern areas also have a tilt toward above-normal precipitation, which could help alleviate drought.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mountains:<\/strong> The outlook is more favorable in some respects because temperatures have an equal chance of being above or below normal, rather than a clear tilt toward warmth. The biggest divide is drought: the Asheville area is largely drought-free, while much of the surrounding region remains in drought. The Asheville area could therefore have better foliage conditions than other parts of the mountains, particularly if it remains adequately hydrated through the fall. Southern portions also lean toward above-normal precipitation, which could help relieve drought.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ncst-related-stories\">\n    <h2 class=\"related-stories__label\">Related<\/h2>\n    <ul class=\"ncst-component__related-stories-container\">\n      \n<li class=\"ncst-component__bold-link-container wp-block-ncst-bold-link\">\n      <a \n      href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2026\/08\/north-carolina-fall-foliage-forecast\/\"\n      class=\"ncst-component__bold-link text-link\"\n                >\n    <span class=\"text\">North Carolina\u2019s Fall Foliage May Be Patchy, Muted and Shorter This Year<\/span><span class=\"arrow-indicator\"><svg class=\"wolficon wolficon-arrow-right-bold\" role=\"img\"  aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<use xlink:href=\"#wolficon-arrow-right-bold\">\n\t\t<\/svg><\/span>\n    <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n  \n\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"peak-fall-foliage\">Peak Fall Foliage Timeline for North Carolina<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1.jpeg\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40334\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Blue Ridge Parkway has numerous overlooks and pull-offs, providing panoramic views of rolling hills, valleys and forests awash in fall colors. Photo by Kruck20 via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing when fall foliage peaks is essential for anyone hoping to experience the season at its most vibrant. The timing of peak color can vary significantly depending on elevation, weather conditions and location, making it important to plan accordingly. The following general timeline may help guide your planning efforts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Late September:<\/strong> Patchy fall color begins to appear at the highest elevations of the North Carolina mountains, especially above 5,000 feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Early to mid-October:<\/strong> Fall color becomes more noticeable and widespread at elevations above 4,000 feet, including areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mid-October:<\/strong> Peak color typically occurs at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet in the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Late October to early November:<\/strong> Peak color moves into the foothills and the Piedmont region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Early to mid-November:<\/strong> Peak color reaches the Coastal Plain region, marking the final stage of the season\u2019s progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-conditions\">Ideal Weather for Peak Autumn Colors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up view of maple tree with bright orange foliage.\" class=\"wp-image-40333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">In North Carolina, both red maples and sugar maples can display vibrant orange, yellow and red colors during the fall. Photo by Launde Morel via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The duration of the fall foliage season and the intensity of leaf colors are&nbsp;heavily influenced by weather patterns, including temperature fluctuations and sunlight exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cFor the best colors, a combination of sunny days and cool, but not freezing, nights is ideal for a vibrant display,\u201d Bardon said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Cool nighttime temperatures<\/strong> slow the production of chlorophyll, the green pigment in leaves.&nbsp;This breakdown of chlorophyll reveals underlying pigments such as carotenoids, which produce bright orange hues, and xanthophylls, which give leaves their yellow tones.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sunny days<\/strong> enhance the production of sugars in the leaves through photosynthesis. As nights become cooler, these sugars can become trapped in the leaves. This buildup of sugars triggers the production of anthocyanins, a group of pigments responsible for the red and purple hues that appear in fall foliage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"weather-impacts\"><strong>Threats to Fall Foliage<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Brown, withered leaves on a large rock.\" class=\"wp-image-40332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Unfavorable weather and climate conditions can stress trees and cause leaves to drop prematurely, often before they have a chance to develop their full autumn color. Photo by Wes Hicks via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Above-average temperatures<\/strong> can delay the onset of fall colors, causing trees to continue producing chlorophyll longer, which keeps leaves green and delays the revealing of fall colors. This disruption can lead to a later and sometimes shorter display of colorful foliage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Drought conditions<\/strong> can stress trees, causing them to shed leaves prematurely in an effort to conserve moisture, which in turn shortens the duration of the fall foliage season. These conditions can also reduce a tree\u2019s ability to move and store sugars, resulting in fewer reds and purples, and more dull browns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Rainy, overcast weather<\/strong> reduces sunlight and keeps nighttime temperatures warmer, which can delay the breakdown of chlorophyll and postpone the onset of fall colors. It also limits the production of anthocyanins in leaves. As a result, yellows and oranges become more prominent, while reds appear less vibrant or even absent.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tropical storms<\/strong>,<strong> <\/strong>which often bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, can physically damage trees and prematurely knock leaves off the branches. When these storms sweep through an area during the autumn months, the powerful gusts can strip trees of their colorful leaves before they\u2019ve had a chance to reach their peak vibrancy. Additionally, excessive rain can saturate the soil and weaken tree roots, making trees more vulnerable to stress.<\/p>\n\n\n<aside class=\"with-image wp-block-ncst-highlight\">\n    <h2 class=\"highlight__label\">Related<\/h2>\n    <a \n      href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2021\/09\/5-best-places-to-see-fall-foliage-in-north-carolina-without-the-crowds\/\"\n      class=\"highlight__link\"\n    >\n              <div class=\"highlight__image-container\">\n          <div class=\"highlight__image-background\">\n            <img width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" \n              decoding=\"async\"\n              class=\"highlight__image wp-image-18318\"\n              src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27.png\"\n              alt=\"fall foliage along lake\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27.png 1500w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27-768x432.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n            <div class=\"highlight__text-container\">\n        <h3 class=\"highlight__heading\">5 Best Places to See Fall Foliage Without Crowds<\/h3>\n                  <p class=\"highlight__teaser\">From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina offers a vast array of destinations where you can enjoy viewing fall foliage.<\/p>\n                          <p class=\"highlight__cta\">\n            <span class=\"text\">Read more<\/span>\n            <span class=\"arrow-indicator\">\n              <svg class=\"wolficon\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                <use xlink:href=\"#wolficon-arrow-right-bold\"><\/use>\n              <\/svg>\n            <\/span>\n          <\/p>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/a>\n  <\/aside>\n","protected":false,"raw":"<!-- wp:ncst\/dynamic-header {\"block\":\"ncst\/default-immersive-post-header\"} -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/default-immersive-post-header {\"backgroundColor\":\"custombg_three\",\"caption\":\"Photo by Sean Pavone via iStock\",\"displayCategoryID\":460,\"subtitle\":\"Professor Robert Bardon provides his annual fall foliage forecast and breaks down when colors should start, when they\u2019ll peak, and more.\"} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/dynamic-header -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"className\":\"is-style-lead\"} -->\n<p class=\"is-style-lead\">Every year, as summer fades, North Carolina\u2019s forests transform into a vibrant display of red, orange and yellow leaves \u2014 a seasonal spectacle that draws millions of tourists to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains and beyond.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you\u2019re wondering when fall foliage will begin in North Carolina in 2026 and how long it will last, the timeline might look a little different than in previous years due to drought, warmer temperatures and excessive rain.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These conditions are projected to lean toward above-normal in many parts of the state through November and may create less than favorable conditions for fall foliage, delaying and even muting the color change in parts of the mountains, Piedmont and Coastal Plain.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/aside-widget -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/aside-fact {\"svgSlug\":\"tree\",\"heading\":\"Leaf It to North Carolina\",\"support\":\"The state boasts dozens of tree species that contribute to fall foliage.\",\"callToAction\":\"Read more\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/herbarium.ncsu.edu\/tnc\/list.htm\",\"textColor\":\"custombg_three\"} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/aside-widget -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cI expect to see a patchwork of fall colors across North Carolina this year,\u201d said\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/rebardon\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/rebardon\/\">Robert Bardon<\/a>, a professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University. \u201cFrom region to region, people may see quite a bit of variation.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Bardon, who also serves as the associate dean for Extension in the College of Natural Resources, has been forecasting North Carolina's fall foliage season for over a decade, providing reliable predictions that help communities and visitors plan for the peak of the season.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In the following FAQ, Bardon breaks down what fall foliage might look like for each region, when to expect peak foliage and key conditions that can both help and hurt foliage. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2>2026 Fall Foliage Forecast for North Carolina<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":43389,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1.png\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/08\/fall-foliage-trongnguyen-AdobeStock_175420883-1500x844-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"A close-up of several maple leaves turning from green to orange and red, hanging from a branch against a blurred background of blue sky and green foliage.\" class=\"wp-image-43389\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by trongnguyen\/stock.adobe.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Piedmont:<\/strong> This region may have some of the less favorable conditions for vibrant, long-lasting foliage. Above-normal temperatures across the region could delay color change, while ongoing drought may stress trees and lead to premature leaf drop or muted colors. Southern areas also have a tilt toward above-normal precipitation, which could help ease drought but may add to variability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Coastal Plain:<\/strong> Conditions are similarly mixed. Above-normal temperatures could delay the onset of fall color, while drought across most of the region could stress trees. However, the northeastern Coastal Plain stands out because it is largely outside the current drought area, potentially giving trees there better conditions for vibrant foliage. Southern areas also have a tilt toward above-normal precipitation, which could help alleviate drought.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Mountains:<\/strong> The outlook is more favorable in some respects because temperatures have an equal chance of being above or below normal, rather than a clear tilt toward warmth. The biggest divide is drought: the Asheville area is largely drought-free, while much of the surrounding region remains in drought. The Asheville area could therefore have better foliage conditions than other parts of the mountains, particularly if it remains adequately hydrated through the fall. Southern portions also lean toward above-normal precipitation, which could help relieve drought.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/related-stories -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/bold-link {\"text\":\"North Carolina\u2019s Fall Foliage May Be Patchy, Muted and Shorter This Year\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2026\/08\/north-carolina-fall-foliage-forecast\/\",\"isList\":true} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/related-stories -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6],\"anchor\":\"peak-fall-foliage\"} -->\n<h2 id=\"peak-fall-foliage\">Peak Fall Foliage Timeline for North Carolina<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40334,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/blue-ridge-parkway-tunnel-kruck20-istock-1500x844-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40334\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Blue Ridge Parkway has numerous overlooks and pull-offs, providing panoramic views of rolling hills, valleys and forests awash in fall colors. Photo by Kruck20 via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Knowing when fall foliage peaks is essential for anyone hoping to experience the season at its most vibrant. The timing of peak color can vary significantly depending on elevation, weather conditions and location, making it important to plan accordingly. The following general timeline may help guide your planning efforts:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Late September:<\/strong> Patchy fall color begins to appear at the highest elevations of the North Carolina mountains, especially above 5,000 feet.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Early to mid-October:<\/strong> Fall color becomes more noticeable and widespread at elevations above 4,000 feet, including areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Mid-October:<\/strong> Peak color typically occurs at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet in the mountains.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Late October to early November:<\/strong> Peak color moves into the foothills and the Piedmont region.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Early to mid-November:<\/strong> Peak color reaches the Coastal Plain region, marking the final stage of the season\u2019s progression.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6],\"anchor\":\"key-conditions\"} -->\n<h2 id=\"key-conditions\">Ideal Weather for Peak Autumn Colors<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40333,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/orange-maple-leaves-launde-morel-vS_5uvXCtWI-unsplash-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up view of maple tree with bright orange foliage.\" class=\"wp-image-40333\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">In North Carolina, both red maples and sugar maples can display vibrant orange, yellow and red colors during the fall. Photo by Launde Morel via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The duration of the fall foliage season and the intensity of leaf colors are&nbsp;heavily influenced by weather patterns, including temperature fluctuations and sunlight exposure.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cFor the best colors, a combination of sunny days and cool, but not freezing, nights is ideal for a vibrant display,\u201d Bardon said.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Cool nighttime temperatures<\/strong> slow the production of chlorophyll, the green pigment in leaves.&nbsp;This breakdown of chlorophyll reveals underlying pigments such as carotenoids, which produce bright orange hues, and xanthophylls, which give leaves their yellow tones.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Sunny days<\/strong> enhance the production of sugars in the leaves through photosynthesis. As nights become cooler, these sugars can become trapped in the leaves. This buildup of sugars triggers the production of anthocyanins, a group of pigments responsible for the red and purple hues that appear in fall foliage.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6],\"anchor\":\"weather-impacts\"} -->\n<h2 id=\"weather-impacts\"><strong>Threats to Fall Foliage<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40332,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/fall-foliage-stone-wes-hicks-cmAOjPpwZQo-unsplash-1500x844-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Brown, withered leaves on a large rock.\" class=\"wp-image-40332\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Unfavorable weather and climate conditions can stress trees and cause leaves to drop prematurely, often before they have a chance to develop their full autumn color. Photo by Wes Hicks via Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Above-average temperatures<\/strong> can delay the onset of fall colors, causing trees to continue producing chlorophyll longer, which keeps leaves green and delays the revealing of fall colors. This disruption can lead to a later and sometimes shorter display of colorful foliage.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Drought conditions<\/strong> can stress trees, causing them to shed leaves prematurely in an effort to conserve moisture, which in turn shortens the duration of the fall foliage season. These conditions can also reduce a tree\u2019s ability to move and store sugars, resulting in fewer reds and purples, and more dull browns.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Rainy, overcast weather<\/strong> reduces sunlight and keeps nighttime temperatures warmer, which can delay the breakdown of chlorophyll and postpone the onset of fall colors. It also limits the production of anthocyanins in leaves. As a result, yellows and oranges become more prominent, while reds appear less vibrant or even absent.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Tropical storms<\/strong>,<strong> <\/strong>which often bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, can physically damage trees and prematurely knock leaves off the branches. When these storms sweep through an area during the autumn months, the powerful gusts can strip trees of their colorful leaves before they\u2019ve had a chance to reach their peak vibrancy. Additionally, excessive rain can saturate the soil and weaken tree roots, making trees more vulnerable to stress.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/highlight {\"heading\":\"5 Best Places to See Fall Foliage Without Crowds\",\"teaser\":\"From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina offers a vast array of destinations where you can enjoy viewing fall foliage.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2021\/09\/5-best-places-to-see-fall-foliage-in-north-carolina-without-the-crowds\/\",\"callToAction\":\"Read more\",\"imageID\":18318,\"imageURL\":\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/09\/My-Post-27.png\",\"imageAlt\":\"fall foliage along lake\"} \/-->"},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Fall foliage can begin as early as late September in the upper mountain elevations, but weather conditions like drought and warm temperatures could delay the onset of color or cause leaves to drop early.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":171,"featured_media":37214,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"views\/single-immersive.blade.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"source":"","ncst_custom_author":"","ncst_show_custom_author":false,"ncst_dynamicHeaderBlockName":"ncst\/default-immersive-post-header","ncst_dynamicHeaderData":"{\"backgroundColor\":\"custombg_three\",\"caption\":\"Photo by Sean Pavone via iStock\",\"displayCategoryID\":460,\"showAuthor\":true,\"showDate\":true,\"showFeaturedVideo\":false,\"subtitle\":\"Professor Robert Bardon provides his annual fall foliage forecast and breaks down when colors should start, when they\u2019ll peak, and more.\"}","ncst_content_audit_freq":"","ncst_content_audit_date":"","ncst_content_audit_display":false,"ncst_backToTopFlag":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[111,1,102,3,460],"tags":[261,265,362],"_ncst_magazine_issue":[],"class_list":["post-28529","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fer-research","category-hidden-news","category-hidden-newswire","category-research-innovation","category-thought-leadership","tag-fer-research","tag-forest-health","tag-forestry-and-environmental-resources"],"displayCategory":{"term_id":460,"name":"Thought Leadership","slug":"thought-leadership","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":460,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Our more than 200 faculty members are experts in their fields, conducting cutting-edge research to solve urgent challenges at the intersection of the environment, economy and society. Here you will find content highlighting their expertise on a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary issues ranging from the significant rise in forest fires, deforestation and flooding to the need for accelerated innovation to sustainably engineer bio-based materials.","parent":0,"count":88,"filter":"raw"},"acf":{"ncst_posts_meta_modified_date":null},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28529","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/171"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=28529"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28529\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43398,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28529\/revisions\/43398"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37214"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28529"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28529"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28529"},{"taxonomy":"_ncst_magazine_issue","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/_ncst_magazine_issue?post=28529"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}