Autumn Colors and Fall Events in Banner Elk, NC
Autumn in the Blue Ridge Mountains attracts visitors in droves as Mother Nature transforms in waves across the landscape. This stunning kaleidoscope of color is the perfect backdrop for a host of fall events in Banner Elk, NC detailed far below. You don’t have to go far to immerse yourself in nature’s gifts—Elk River Club encompasses 1,200 acres of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty. The pristine Elk River that makes its way through our community is a popular member destination for catch and release fly-fishing. Riverside Park is a puppy’s dream and has waterside decks, a cabana and picnic areas. Elk River Club members flock to Robbins Sunset Park for its views of the sunset gazing west and nearby mountain peaks.
Fall Temperatures
Autumn weather is wonderfully cool in our region, with average high/low temps at 72° and 51° in September, 63° and 39° in October. There’s a bit more chill in the air come November (53° and 31°), so remember your favorite fuzzy gloves and a warm hat before setting out.
Pick a Folk Music Soundtrack
Our iconic region has inspired countless songs; perhaps you’d like to set the tone for your adventure with the folk playlist curated by the Smithsonian. Songs they feature include Roving Gambler, Little Maggie and Lonesome Day.
Flora and Fauna
Wondering what you may see on the Parkway? Here’s a good starting point thanks to the Explore Boone website:
- Red Spruce
- Fraser Fir
- Oak
- Maple
- Tulip Poplar
- Carolina Hemlock (hint: search for these evergreens near cliffs and ridges—they require lots of water and have been spotted near Trout Lake in Blowing Rock)
- Ravens (hint: they are often spotted at Grandfather Mountain)
- Turkeys
- Squirrels
- Salamanders (hint: they love our streams and often hide under rocks)
- Groundhogs
What about the black bear? They are known to be reclusive. Should you happen to catch a glimpse, don’t attempt to feed them or get too close! Remember, cubs mean mother bear is nearby.
Fall Events in Banner Elk, NC
The Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce highlights a selection of High Country happenings in the fall season:
- Fly a kite or watch spectacular kites dancing in the wind at Beech Mountain’s Mile High Kite Festival in September
- Wear your traditional lederhosen or your most elaborate dirndl and escape to Sugar Mountain’s annual Oktoberfest
- Join in on the woolly bear caterpillar race at the Woolly Worm Festival
- Sample fresh, crisp apple cider and shop from local artists at the Valle Crucis Fall Fair
- Take the family to Banner Elk’s Trunk or Treat for a spooky good time
- Explore a local pumpkin patch or challenge the family to a corn maze in Valle Crucis or Boone
- Cheer on the Mountaineers at an Appalachian State University football game
- Watch the Bobcats compete at a Lees-McRae College basketball, soccer, lacrosse or volleyball game
Support Small Businesses and Shop Downtown
If shopping is more your style, the High Country has several charming downtown areas to explore, including Banner Elk, Boone, Blowing Rock and West Jefferson. Or, make a special trip to visit the original Mast General Store and Annex in Valle Crucis.
As always, we’d love to hear from you! Request more information online or give us a call at 828.898.9773.
Elk River Club is a private mountain golf community in Western North Carolina with the first Signature Jack Nicklaus golf course in the state. Residents and guests enjoy surrounding views of Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain. Amenities include an Equestrian Center, a private, on-premise airport, Har-Tru tennis courts, a pool complex, spa services, Clubhouse, fishing, casual and fine dining, events and more.
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