Autumn Bursts Into Color At Grandfather Mountain, N.C.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

With autumn under way in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grandfather Mountain remains one of the best leaf-looking destinations in the South.

One way guests can enjoy fall foliage this season is Grandfather’s guided walk series, “The Colors of Grandfather,” offered on weekends Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18.

Grandfather Mountain is home to numerous species of plants and hardwood trees that range from pumpkin-colored beech trees to blood-red sourwoods and rusty red oaks.

Already, foliage on the mountain has seen a dramatic change.

“In my experience and opinion, it looks like fall color is progressing about a week early,” said Jesse Pope, executive director of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that oversees the popular attraction. “It’s looking very good thus far. I think it’s shaping up to be the best fall color we have experienced in several years.”

"The Colors of Grandfather” will visit various locations around Grandfather Mountain to showcase a spectacular contrast of autumn hues. These guided walks, led by members of Grandfather’s educational staff, give guests an opportunity to learn more about color change and explore the species of plants and trees native to Grandfather Mountain. Participants will become more familiar with tree identification and will be able to ask questions about the annual color-changing phenomenon.

The programs begin at 1 p.m. and are included with regular admission. For more information about “The Colors of Grandfather," call 800 468-7325, or visit www.grandfather.com.

In addition to the programs offered inside the park in October, fresh fall color photos are posted daily throughout the month on the mountain’s website, Facebook page and Twitter account.

The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, call (800) 468-7325, or visit www.grandfather.com to plan a trip.