There’s something magical about fall in Asheville. As summer fades, the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and golds, while crisp mountain air invites guests to spend their days hiking scenic trails, exploring downtown, and discovering the region’s renowned food and craft beer scene.
At our luxurious and historic Asheville bed and breakfast, we love helping guests experience everything that makes autumn our favorite season. Whether you’re here for breathtaking Asheville fall foliage, cozy evenings, or our annual Oktoberfest celebration, there’s no shortage of memorable ways to enjoy an Asheville fall getaway.
1. Experience Spectacular Asheville Fall Foliage
Take the scenic route!
One of our favorite things about the season is that spectacular Asheville fall foliage is never far away.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is just minutes from Inn on Montford and offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the country. We often encourage our guests to pack a picnic, take their time, and stop at overlooks along the way, because you never know which view will become your favorite!
If you’re looking to stretch your legs, here are a few beautiful places to experience autumn up close:
- Craggy Gardens – A scenic Blue Ridge Parkway stop known for sweeping mountain vistas, colorful fall foliage, and easy hiking trails.
- Graveyard Fields – A favorite for waterfall hikes and vibrant autumn colors, making it one of the Parkway’s most photographed destinations.
- North Carolina Arboretum – Explore beautifully maintained gardens, wooded walking trails, and one of Asheville’s best places to experience the beauty of fall.
- Looking Glass Rock – An iconic granite summit offering a rewarding hike and panoramic views of the Pisgah National Forest dressed in brilliant fall colors.
Every year is a little different, which makes each fall in Asheville feel unique, and we’re always happy to share our favorite spots, so feel free to ask our staff for recommendations.
Peak color varies slightly from year to year depending on weather conditions, but you can typically enjoy beautiful Asheville fall foliage from late September through early November. If you’re planning a fall getaway, we recommend checking local foliage reports before your visit and heading out early in the day to beat the crowds.
2. Explore Asheville Fall Festivals and Seasonal Events
Autumn is one of Asheville’s liveliest seasons, with festivals and events celebrating everything from local art and music to fresh harvests.
Browse local farmers markets, attend craft fairs, enjoy live music, or go apple picking at one of Asheville’s many local apple orchards. Hendersonville, NC — just south of Asheville — is one of the country’s top apple growing areas. Choose from multiple orchards, many open daily, to visit during harvest season. Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard, Grandad’s Apples, and Jeter Mountain Farm are a few of our favorites to stop by. Treat yourself to an apple cider doughnut, a glass of cider, or a bushel of freshly picked apples to enjoy the delicious flavors of the season.
3. Celebrate Oktoberfest at Montford Inn
One of our favorite fall traditions is bringing the spirit of Oktoberfest to our
Asheville bed and breakfast.
During October, guests are invited to enjoy an evening featuring locally brewed Oktoberfest beers from some of Asheville’s outstanding craft breweries, paired with a traditional Austrian-inspired dinner prepared by our lovely innkeepers, Willy and Shawnie.
After a day spent exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains or strolling through downtown Asheville, it’s the perfect way to unwind, share stories with fellow guests, and enjoy the warm hospitality that makes staying at our Asheville bed and breakfast so special.
4. Plan a Day Trip to Cataloochee
If you love history and wildlife, this is a place you will want to put on your list of to-do’s. This picturesque valley, set in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, contains many historic buildings and its own wild elk herd. Pack a picnic, and explore the history of the Cataloochee valley for the day.
If you’re keen on seeing elk, the best time to watch is either early in the morning or in the evening during the last hour of daylight or so. We recommend bringing a pair of binoculars to make sure you get a good look.
5. Discover Asheville Breweries & Grab a Seasonal Brew
Asheville has earned a national reputation as “Beer City,” and fall is one of the best times to sit outside, enjoy the cool air, and sip on an autumn-inspired brew.
Spend an afternoon visiting local favorites like Highland Brewing, Burial Beer, Green Man Brewery, Wicked Weed Brewing, or Sierra Nevada. Seasonal Oktoberfest and Märzen-style beers make appearances across many taprooms, offering a true taste of autumn here in the mountains.
Whether you’re an avid craft beer enthusiast or simply enjoy trying something new, Asheville’s breweries offer welcoming spaces for you (and even your pet too).
6. Get Outside and Enjoy Scenic Fall Hiking in Asheville
Cooler temperatures make autumn one of the most enjoyable times of year to hit the trails. Pack your hiking boots, grab a homemade cookie (or two) as you leave the inn and enjoy some trail time.
Popular hikes near Asheville include:
- Black Balsam Knob – A breathtaking hike above the treeline with sweeping 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and spectacular Asheville fall foliage.
- Graveyard Fields – An easy-to-moderate hike featuring waterfalls, boardwalks, and vibrant autumn colors, perfect for all skill levels.
- DuPont State Recreational Forest – Discover miles of scenic trails, stunning waterfalls, and colorful forests that shine during the fall season.
- Bent Creek Experimental Forest – A local favorite offering peaceful hiking and biking trails through hardwood forests just minutes from downtown Asheville.
From waterfall hikes to panoramic mountain vistas, there’s a trail for every skill level.
Wind Down at Our Cozy Asheville B&B
After a day of hiking, brewery hopping, apple picking, or just taking in the spectacular fall colors, return to the comforts of Inn on Montford.
Relax on the porch, unwind in the sunroom, enjoy sitting by the fire, or wind down with a warm steam shower in your room.
No matter what fall adventure you choose, Inn on Montford offers the perfect home base for your fall getaway.
Plan Your Asheville Fall Escape Today
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a friends’ getaway, or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of autumn, we invite you to experience fall in Asheville at Inn on Montford. Book your stay early to enjoy peak Asheville fall foliage!