Our Six Favorite, Accessible Places for Fall Foliage This Year
This shift marks one of the most dazzling times of the year in the area as the Blue Ridge Mountains are painted in warm pastels. It’s not a spectacle you will want to miss! As you eagerly await autumn, Loyal Lifts would like to remind you how delighted we are to provide safe and convenient transportation opportunities suited for those with various mobility challenges and other limitations.
We strongly believe in making these stunning views accessible to everyone in our region, and we are prepared and excited to be a part of your journey into the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Grab your binoculars, water bottles, and camera, and come explore with us as we admire the majesty of one of mother nature’s most special times of the year.
Six Perfect Accessible Places to View Fall Foliage This Year
1. North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum, situated in the Pisgah National Forest has been connecting people with nature for more than thirty years. On its campus, which boasts over four hundred acres of public gardens, you will be treated to remarkable views of North Carolina’s most beautiful natural settings.
This destination has become a favorite for those looking to immerse themselves in the botanically diverse Southern Appalachian Mountains and learn more about the gorgeous area we all call home. There are several accessible trails that allow wheelchair users to be immersed in the autumn experience.
2. Asheville Greenway
If you are interested in exploring the forests and waterways that have made western North Carolina famous, the Asheville Greenway is the perfect place for you to travel this fall. Along its winding paths, you will be in awe of vibrant leaves and the numerous jaw-dropping vistas that sweep across the landscape.
The Greenway is known for crafting flawless portraits of the flora that crisscross the Blue Ridge Mountains. The best part is that you can explore the Greenway at no cost to you! Make sure to add this to your list of must-see sights this autumn. The colors will be at their best in late October in this area, and the Greenway is wheelchair accessible.
3. Mount Mitchell
The peaks of Mount Mitchell provide an unmatched vantage point for those seeking views of leaves across Asheville. Mount Mitchell’s summit is known for being the highest point east of the Mississippi River, standing at a staggering 6,684 feet, making it easily one of the best spots to enjoy fall this year.
The observation deck perched near its summit is not only accessible but also offers a one-of-a-kind view of the surrounding mountain ranges and the foliage that carpets them. Make sure to leave space on your calendar to soar to the apex of Mount Mitchell this year with Loyal Lifts!
4. Black Balsam Knob
Over the years, Black Balsam Knob has become known for its sprawling population of monarch butterflies. The site is also home to picturesque views from points such as Pounding Mill Overlook, Cherry Cove Overlook, and the titular Black Balsam summit.
These outcroppings feature some of the most marvelous perspectives of the changing leaves, and with fluttering butterflies to boot, Black Balsam Knob is an ideal autumn getaway. The Black Balsam Knob and Devil’s Courthouse overlooks are located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are wide parking lots easily navigable in a wheelchair
5. Lake Junaluska
The leaves will not be the only thing on display when you visit Lake Junaluska, nestled within the western North Carolina mountains. This beloved retreat hosts a historic inn, multiple walking trails, scenic gardens, relaxing lake cruises, wildlife viewing, panoramic vistas, a golf course, and more. Spending time at Lake Junaluska is sure to be the reset anyone needs this fall.
Lake Junaluska is less than an hour from Asheville and has an accessible path perfect for wheelchairs and those who prefer smooth surfaces.
6. Blue Ridge Parkway
There are several accessible areas to view leaves on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Per the National Parks Service:
“Many parkway facilities are wheelchair accessible. Some facilities have minor slopes and/or structural barriers. Several new trails at the Peaks of Otter and at Julian Price Lake are ADA accessible. Fishing piers at Otter Lake and Price Lake are accessible. Service animals are welcomed at all facilities.”
Of course, even just by driving and riding on the Parkway itself, you will be treated to amazing views of fall colors. In addition to the places mentioned above, Craggy Gardens and Mount Pisgah are great places to see the spectacular views and colors with your wheelchair. Mount Mitchell (mentioned above) is also wheelchair accessible and only a few minutes from Craggy Gardens.
Take an Adventure with Loyal Lifts Transportation
No matter where you decide to venture this fall, Loyal Lifts is excited to be a part of your journey. Our easy and accessible door-to-door service will make your transportation needs a breeze and will help ensure you can spend less time worrying about travel and more time enjoying nature.
The team at Loyal Lifts is focused on effortless service and top-tier customer experience. Our driver will pick you up in luxury-upfitted vehicles and safely transport you to your outdoor oasis, and when you are finished, we will be there to bring you back to the comfort of your own home. All you have to do is sign up on our website, and we will handle the rest.
Whether you choose to stroll along the Asheville Greenway or soar along Mount Mitchell, we will be with you every step of the way to make sure you don’t miss a single leaf change this season. Contact us via our website to plan your next outdoor adventure; mother nature is waiting for you!