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Carolina Fall Foliage
North
Carolina Prepares for Fall Color
Raleigh, NC
– Fall
color predictions are not an exact science. But experts like Dr.
Robert Bardon, extension forestry specialist with N.C. State University
agree, "there really is no bad year for fall color in North
Carolina."
"Leaves
will first begin changing at higher elevations, and colors will vary depending
on the type of foliage and environmental stressors," he added. "Fall
color across the state will be intensified if the fall is dry, with sunny days
and cool nights. These conditions will make the colors even more vivid,"
Dr. Bardon added.
Traditionally,
the Blue Ridge
and Great
Smoky Mountains regions showcase a variety of deep colors. The incredible diversity
of plants and trees, and the changing terrain in the Appalachian Mountains, cause
vibrant colors and the fall season typically lasts longer here. Across
the state, attractions like the Blue
Ridge Parkway offer travelers an unparalleled view of fall foliage. The mountains
of North Carolina range in elevation from 6,684 feet at Mount Mitchell –
the highest point east of the Mississippi, to 2,200 feet in some valleys.
Because the
North Carolina mountains are home to this unique topography and
countless tree and plant varieties, fall color typically begins
in early October and lasts for as long as six weeks. Each tree
and plant variety offers unique color in leaves, flowers and berries.
These colors change at different times at different elevations,
producing stunning reds, golds, yellows and oranges, complemented
by wildflowers like the white and blue asters and the royal purple
ironweed.
In
the fall, North Carolina prepares for weeks of color. To help
travelers preparing for a fall mountain vacation the N.C. Division
of Tourism has established the "Leaf Peepers" program.
Each week individuals across the state report the status of changing
leaves. These weekly reports usually will begin the week of Sept.
19. To view these reports, visit www.visitnc.com
or you can call 1-800-VISIT NC for the latest update. The updates
continue as long as conditions allow.
Courtesy:
North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism, Film, and Sports
Development
More about North Carolina fall colors around the Web:
Fall Foliage Peak in the Southeast
25 Best Places to see fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains
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