These are the best scenic drives for fall foliage in NC, according to survey

Chyna Blackmon
·2 min read

North Carolina is a popular destination this time of year, especially for those who want to admire the vibrant colors of fall foliage.

From the mountains, parks and even some lakes, there are plenty of places around the state to see the autumn leaves changing color this season.

But if you want to go leaf peeping on the road, North Carolina also has some of the best scenic drives in the country, according to a new survey.

Gunther Volkswagen of Coconut Creek surveyed 3,000 people about their favorite routes to see fall foliage across the U.S.

Out of 140 routes, three in North Carolina were included on the list: the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Cherohala Skyway, along with the Boone and Blowing Rock area.

The Blue Ridge Parkway was the top pick in the state and voted in 63rd place nationally. Hailed as “America’s favorite drive,” it is the longest road planned as a single unit in the country. Stretching 469 miles through the region, it connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park via some of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.

Beautiful fall colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Beautiful fall colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Cherohala Skyway, which stretches across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, was No. 85 on the list. The highway, which crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, winds up over 5,400-foot mountains for 18 miles in North Carolina and descends another 23 miles into Tennessee. Aside from the scenic overlooks around every corner, there are also several hiking trails and waterfalls.

The third North Carolina spot that was top-favored for fall foliage wasn’t a singular route but the entire Boone and Blowing Rock area. According to the survey, it was voted 105th nationally. Located about 2 hours outside of Charlotte, the towns have several hiking trails, parks and more where you can admire the fall foliage.

Fall foliage from Grandview Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Boone, N.C., Monday, Oct. 24, 2022.
Fall foliage from Grandview Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Boone, N.C., Monday, Oct. 24, 2022.

Overall, drives near Northeastern states were among the best scenic drives for fall foliage. You can find the complete list of top routes for travelers this season online in the report.