Fall is calling again, and our Fall Peaks Hiking Series is back, ready to guide you through an incredible seasonal climb from lofty heights to mellow lowlands. After last year’s pause due to Helene’s disruption, the trails beckon with fresh energy, vibrant colors, and the wild pulse of autumn’s changing guard. This October through November, join us as we trace the fall foliage’s journey down the mountains — beginning where the leaves first ignite at 6,684 feet on Mount Mitchell and winding down to the final color shifts near Lake Hickory at roughly 1,000 feet.

Mount Mitchell offers the first taste of fall’s transformation. The air sharpens here, brisk and eager, as forests blaze with reds and golds. Prepare for a hike that’s roughly 4.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,800 feet along well-marked trails. Rocky outcrops dare you to ascend higher, rewarding you with sweeping views that make each step count. The terrain demands solid footwear and a steady rhythm — watch your footing, especially where loose gravel pushes underfoot.

As we descend elevation tiers over the series, the foliage timeline stretches out. Lower trails near Lake Hickory offer gentler gradients with long stretches of mixed hardwoods releasing late bursts of color. These hikes average 3 to 5 miles, winding through forest floors littered with crisp leaves and the occasional rush of wind that seems to carry the season itself forward. Ideal for all experience levels, these sections remind you that fall’s power isn’t confined to rugged peaks — it thrives quietly on rolling hills and calm lakesides, too.

Every hike is free, with registration opening Monday, September 29th at 6:00 p.m. sharp. Spaces are limited, so early signup is essential. Waitlists fill fast — a sure sign these trails are ready to roar back to life with eager footfalls. You’ll find all hike details, distances, and terrain descriptions at the registration page: https://bmrp.recdesk.com/Community/Program

Before you set out, pack for practical comfort: layered clothing for changing temperatures, plenty of water, and sturdy boots. Bring a daypack that can handle sudden weather swings and enough snacks to fuel your pace. Fall air is crisp but can be deceiving — dehydration and chills are real risks even in mild sun.

This series isn’t just a stroll; it’s an invitation to engage with fall as something fiercely itself. The forest breathes with changing life, leaves crunch beneath boots as if marking time, and daylight starts to hint at winter’s approach. This isn’t about conquering the trail but moving alongside nature, aware, respectful, and ready for surprise.

Join us as we follow fall’s deliberate descent through the elevations, from Mount Mitchell’s fiery crown to Lake Hickory’s persistent color. The mountains and woods are ready, and so should you be.