Best Places to Photograph Asheville Fall Foliage + Forecast
Asheville, North Carolina, is an absolute dream in the fall. With the mountains draped in vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, it creates the perfect backdrop for wedding, elopement, and engagement photography. If you're planning to capture those special moments surrounded by nature’s most stunning display, Asheville should be at the top of your list.
When to Visit Asheville for Peak Fall Colors
Mid-October to Early November: The Prime Window for Vibrant Fall Foliage
The best time to visit Asheville for fall colors is generally from mid-October to early November. This period offers the peak window for vibrant foliage across the Blue Ridge Mountains. Depending on the elevation, you’ll witness the full spectrum of autumn's beauty, from early blushes of yellow to fiery oranges and deep reds.
The timing of the fall colors in Asheville varies by elevation. Higher elevations, like Craggy Gardens and Black Balsam Knob, start to turn earlier—around mid-October. By the time late October and early November roll around, the valleys and lower elevations near the city hit their full color. This staggered transformation means you can catch breathtaking views throughout the fall season, making it ideal for multiple photo sessions if you desire.
Top 5 Places in Asheville for Fall Colors
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is an iconic spot for capturing fall photos. With countless scenic overlooks and panoramic views, it’s easy to find the perfect spot to frame your wedding, engagement, or elopement shots with the rich tapestry of fall colors.
Biltmore Estate
For a mix of architecture and natural beauty, the Biltmore Estate is unbeatable. The estate’s sprawling grounds offer endless photo opportunities, from romantic shots in the manicured gardens to sweeping views of the colorful forests.
Craggy Gardens
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Craggy Gardens is known for its dramatic views and rugged beauty. At higher elevations, this spot bursts into vibrant color earlier than most places, making it a perfect choice for early fall photoshoots.
Lake Lure
If you’re after a water feature in your photos, Lake Lure is a must. The calm waters reflect the surrounding fall foliage, creating a stunning visual effect that adds depth and vibrancy to any engagement or wedding photo session.
Black Balsam Knob
If you're looking for wide-open views of the mountains in full fall splendor, Black Balsam Knob delivers. Its bald summit provides 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, making it one of the most dramatic and photogenic spots in Asheville.
My Favorite Photography Tips for Capturing Fall Colors
Time Your Sessions Around the Golden Hour
For the best light, I like to plan my photography sessions around the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. The warm, soft lighting during these times enhances the already rich fall colors, creating a magical glow in your photos.
Incorporate the Fall Landscape into Your Shots
I love to use Asheville’s natural fall landscape to enhance my photos. Whether it’s framing a couple against a backdrop of fiery trees or using the fallen leaves for playful, candid shots, the fall environment adds warmth, romance, and depth.
Asheville in the fall is a breathtaking setting for wedding and engagement photos. From the sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Parkway to the romantic grounds of the Biltmore Estate, this region offers endless opportunities for stunning images.
Ready to capture your love story against this colorful backdrop? Contact Justin Clark Photography today to book a fall photo session and let us turn these once-in-a-lifetime moments into beautiful, timeless memories!