After a year’s pause due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, Black Mountain Recreation & Parks is reviving its annual Fall Peaks Hiking Series to spotlight Western North Carolina’s signature autumn landscapes. This free, registration-required series tracks the gradual descent of peak fall foliage from the lofty heights of Mount Mitchell down to the calm shores of Lake Hickory, offering an accessible path for outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience one of the region’s most vibrant seasons.

The schedule spans from early October to early November, starting October 6 on Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet. Hikers on this trail will encounter crisp mountain air and stands of spruce-fir forest that seem to echo northern forests more than southern Appalachians. This elevated vantage point ensures early fall colors, sculpted by nature’s hand as it cools.

Subsequent hikes include Mount Pisgah on October 8, where a moderate ascent rewards with views of the French Broad River Valley, and Craggy Pinnacle on October 14, a shorter trail known for dramatic cliffside vistas and rhododendron-lined pathways. The series leads to Copperhead Mountain on October 17, a rugged, less-traveled route that winds through hardwood forests blazing with autumn hues.

By mid-October, Whitehouse Cliffs and Point Lookout provide scenic treks featuring rocky overlooks and gentle greenway climbs within Pisgah National Forest. Chestnut Knob in South Mountains State Park on October 28 offers a moderate challenge, gaining panoramic sights of rolling hills and foothills.

As the series shifts toward water-themed landscapes, the October 30 hike at Lake James reveals the interplay of mountain reflections and lakeside quiet, before the final outing at Lake Hickory on November 3 provides a peaceful day among woodland trails hugging the water’s edge.

All hikes are free but require timely registration beginning Monday, September 29 at 6 p.m. Hikers are encouraged to sign up early, as spots may fill quickly. Waitlist options are available for fully booked hikes.

This series combines the excitement of adventure with practical planning by following the natural progression of peak color season based on elevation. It offers something for varied skill levels — from gentle lakeshore strolls to demanding mountain treks — and showcases the Blue Ridge’s layered ecosystems in their fiery autumn glory.

For those plotting their participation, preparation tips include sturdy footwear for uneven terrain, layered clothing to adjust for temperature swings at different elevations, and hydration strategies to maintain energy. The trails demand respect as much as admiration; nature’s fierce personality requires attentiveness to weather and trail conditions.

Visitors can learn more about each hike and register online at the Black Mountain Recreation & Parks portal (https://bmrp.recdesk.com/Community/Program). Whether new or veteran hikers, participants have an opportunity to step into the season’s changing script — where every leaf’s fall is both an ending and a celebration on the trail.