Between Asheville’s splendid natural setting in the southern Appalachians and its funky, artsy culture rich in both hand-thrown pottery and hand-crafted beers, it’s no wonder that Asheville attracts millions of travelers each year. However, perched 2134ft up in the Appalachian Mountains, it’s important to find the optimal times for visiting—whether you’re hoping to take advantage of outdoor activities like those in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest, or exploring indoor attractions such as the Biltmore Estate and River Arts District.
High Season: October, The Best Time to Experience Autumn Foliage
October is the peak season for fall’s changing leaves, making it Asheville’s busiest tourist month. The leaves are typically at their brightest in the latter half of the month. Therefore, plan ahead for a visit during this period, as hotel accommodations often fill up quickly, and rates can be significantly higher than in less crowded times. The stunning natural views and pleasant climate are often worth the investment.
Leaf seekers can discover the best colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which provides breathtaking views of the mountains throughout the year. The oak trees create a blue-hued illusion that beautifully contrasts with the vibrant reds and oranges of the autumn foliage, providing excellent conditions for photography enthusiasts.
If you’re eager for a hike, the leaves are particularly vivid at higher elevations. However, keep in mind that they change color more rapidly under these conditions, making it essential to time your trip accurately. For instance, trees at Looking Glass Rock may peak a week earlier than those in the heart of Asheville.
For less strenuous viewing, Asheville’s municipal parks and historic areas such as Riverside Cemetery also offer wonderful views.
Shoulder Season: March to April and July to August for Blooming Beauty
The spring and summer months showcase some of Asheville’s most enchanting sights. In the spring, cherry and pear trees bloom, while in the summer, rhododendrons, azaleas, and mountain laurels abound.
Visitors interested in blooming nature can explore the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, transformed into a vibrant garden by community members in 2013.
During July and August, outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing provide refreshing options for beating the summer heat. The cool waters of the French Broad River remain a local favorite for swimming, while April presents ideal conditions for trout fishing.
Summer also brings concert season to Asheville, highlighted by events like the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, featuring storytelling, clogging, and bluegrass music.
Low Season: November to January, Ideal for Skiing Adventures
Though some tourists may shy away from Asheville in the winter due to challenging mountain roads, savvy skiers can benefit from advantageous hotel rates and abundant snowfall during this season.
Within a two-hour drive from Asheville, visitors can enjoy some of the tallest slopes on the East Coast. For instance, Beech Mountain Resort is renowned for its exceptional height, making it a prime destination.
Sugar Mountain Resort, the largest in North Carolina, offers trails and lifts for skiers of all skill levels. Just under an hour away, the Cataloochee Ski Area and Wolf Ridge also attract ski enthusiasts.
Local resorts provide alternative winter activities, such as snow tubing and hot cocoa. In late January, the Hot Chocolate Races and Marshmallow Dash benefit local causes and feature delights from French Broad Chocolates.
January: The Snowiest Month in Asheville
January is known for its heavy snowfall, with average temperatures in the 30°F range. Though tourism tends to slow down this month, visitors can enjoy a cozy cup of cider at the Funkatorium.
February: A Rise in Visitor Numbers
As February rolls in, the tourist scene picks up as visitors arrive for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Families flock to the Asheville Train Show, bringing together numerous vendors and numerous model train displays.
March: Celebrate in Beer City
March is filled with excitement, especially with the annual basketball rivalry. This month also features a lively atmosphere in Asheville’s breweries, making it an excellent time to explore the city’s vibrant drinking culture. Consequently, Asheville is affectionately dubbed “Beer City” due to its vast array of breweries.
April: A Season of Showers and Flowers
April temperatures hover in the pleasant range of 50°F, making it suitable for nature walks. Visitors should prepare for occasional rain, as April marks one of the rainiest months. Key highlights include the Asheville Herb Festival, popular among herbalists and gardeners.
May: A Warmer and Busier Month
As spring reaches its peak, May sees temperatures rise, attracting visitors for birdwatching and floral viewings, particularly at the Biltmore Estate.
June: Pride Month Celebrations
June welcomes Pride activities that draw in locals and visitors alike, offering insights into Asheville’s LGBTQ+ community through various events.
July: Perfect for Hiking
The summer months provide great hiking opportunities across the Appalachian trails. Despite the heat, the refreshing mountain breeze helps make outdoor activities pleasant.
August: Enjoy Summer Concerts
The warm, sunny weather of August sets the stage for outdoor concerts and activities, including participation in local dance festivals.
September: Apple Harvest Season
September is apple harvesting time in North Carolina. Visitors can sample delicious apple dumplings and cider while enjoying the local festival atmosphere.
October: The Peak of Fall Foliage
October attracts tourists for its stunning autumn scenery. While staying in Asheville during peak season may come at a premium, exploring the outdoors offers a free appreciation of nature’s beauty.
November: A Quiet, Affordable Visit
November represents a lull in tourism, making it an opportune time for travelers to enjoy quieter attractions and reasonable hotel rates.
December: Celebrate the Holidays
Throughout the holiday season, the Biltmore Estate is transformed into a dazzling display of lights, reminiscent of the family’s first Christmas celebration in 1895.
This article was originally published on May 13, 2021, and was updated on May 26, 2022.
