In her book Wither, Lauren DeStefano wrote: “Fall has always been my favorite season.
The time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale.”
Between late September and mid-November, the mountains take on a whole new aura. Lush green leaves and fresh flowers give way to magnificent colors, or as my sister’s college roommate once put it, “It’s like the mountains are covered by a bag of M&Ms.” The summer heat fades into comfortably crisp weather, and crackling fire in our fireplace becomes a cozy staple during breakfast and dinner.
The transformation begins in late September as dogwoods and early hardwoods start to turn. October grows more vibrant and beautiful each passing day. In recent years, as milder temperatures persist later in the season, we have enjoyed stunning color all the way through mid-November. It is the most popular time of year here.
We still have some rooms available, but we suggest making your reservations now to ensure you have a front-row seat for this spectacular season.
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”
– Anne of Green Gables, by LM Montgomery
Things to do this Fall
- Hiking: A timeless favorite for mountain visitors, with over 800 miles of scenic trails waiting to be explored in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing abounds throughout the area, including 800 miles of wild trout streams filled with rainbow, brown, and native brook trout.
- Sightseeing: There is no better place to take in the breathtaking colors than the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will find endless panoramic views throughout the park, as well as along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Cherohala Skyway.
Special Events
- Mountain Heritage Day at Western Carolina University (September 21-26): A weeklong celebration of Appalachian culture that culminates in a free outdoor festival on Saturday, September 26.
- Nanty Fest at Nantahala Outdoor Center (September 26): Join fellow paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate the final Upper Nantahala and Cascade water releases of the year. Enjoy live music, unique artisan vendors, local food and drink, and new or used boat sales from the Outfitter’s Store and Paddling School.
- Darnell Farms: Located just a couple of miles from Hemlock Inn, Darnell Farms has something fun going on. They regularly host folk and bluegrass festivals, a corn maze, and tractor rides to the pumpkin patch making it a wonderful spot for family fun.
Looking Ahead
- The Polar Express: The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad begins its magical Polar Express rides in early November. This event is extremely popular and sells out quickly, so make your reservations today! Hemlock Inn will remain open through December and has rooms available for this fun family tradition.
- Christmas at Hemlock: We love Christmas, and we deck the inn with traditional Christmas decor, including a live 10-foot tree. Our close proximity to the Polar Express, warm family atmosphere, and home-cooked meals make the inn the perfect setting for your holiday getaway.
We look forward to welcoming you this fall and winter season! -Mort
