The many types of native trees have transformed from the green leaves of summer into an overall orange with streaks of red and yellow making the High Country off the chart with color this year. To see the most vibrant fall colors, plan to visit mid-to-late October when the leaves are at their peak. Noted below are a few of the top places for leaf lookers during their fall visit to Ashe County.
Ashe County’s Scenic Backroads
Driving out into the beautiful countryside is an experience for the adventurer. You will find backroads that lead along the Wild and Scenic New River where the leaves on the trees are in contrast with the flowing river or choose the roads that slowly rise upward to view breathtaking long-range mountains. There will be enough time left to travel to the Blue Ridge Parkway or drive to the top of Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area. The overlooks will not disappoint.
Hike Through the Falling Leaves
This one calls out to all nature lovers! There are few things as beautiful as hiking through colorful woodlands and the mountains of western North Carolina are the perfect place to do it. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from within Ashe County. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area, and New River State Park are only a few.
What to do Next?
As you leave nature’s wonderland, visit the town of West Jefferson. You will enjoy the storefronts decked out in celebration of the autumn season.
Begin your seasonal shopping with unique gifts from the many shops that the town has to offer. If art is an interest, there are numerous art galleries including Florence Thomas Art School and Ashe County Arts where you will find treasures from the many artists that live in and around Ashe County.
Ashe County Cheese welcomes visitors to observe cheese making at scheduled times throughout the week. Even if their cheese making schedule does not include the day you are in West Jefferson, this place is a cheese connoisseur’s dream. The cheese store not only sells fresh cheese, but also offers many local homemade items such as jams, jellies, honey, and other goodies.
Whether you want a main meal or just a sandwich there are numerous restaurants, bistros, cafes, coffee shops, and pubs in West Jefferson. Each eatery offers an array of menus. Craft beer at Boondocks Brew Haus offers many unfamiliar and local flavors of craft beer. Also served at Boondocks Tap Room and Restaurant a block up the street from the Brewery.
Take a Scenic Drive to Lansing, NC
Just a short scenic drive from West Jefferson is Lansing, NC. Lansing is a small town with only 156 residents within the town limits, however, it offers a full day of things to see in and around the town.
Begin your morning with fresh coffee or tea with locally made pastry at Old Orchard Creek General Store. Shop for books, artwork and locally made crafts.
Lansing Creeper Trail Park: You can trout fish from The NC Heritage Trout Waters that runs through the park and a one-mile walking trail that takes you along the side of the creek and through the park. If you enjoy challenging mountain biking – a three-mile single track will lead you out of the town and back. Throughout the year, the park is a venue for bluegrass and mountain music.
Venture into the country for local farms that offer lavender, honey, apples, blueberries, ciders, wine, and other items.
Tip: Ask around town and the town folk will be happy to give directions to the farms that are open for business.
Make your visit to Ashe County Soon!
Come to the NC Mountains during the autumn season and stay in Ashe County. It is where the entire area comes alive with vibrant colors, crisp air, and warm fireplaces. Celebrate autumn with these festive activities and traditions. Make sure to capture the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and fun activities by visiting Ashe County this season.
