Leaf Peeping in Downtown Asheville?
Oct. 27, 2008. When most people crave fall colors, they head out on the Blue Ridge Parkway, not into town. But with the foliage display moving downward in elevation, many of the high elevation spots will begin to fade.
To be sure, fall colors are at their prime in the mountains right now, from 3,000 to 5,000 feet in elevation. If you arrive late, however, here are some spots around town to enjoy autumn at 2,000 feet:
The Sky Club - This inconspicuous bar employs the balconies on floors 6, 7 and 8 of Asheville’s Flat Iron building, at 18 Battery Park Avenue. With little signage or advertising, however, many people don’t know it’s there. The western aspect offers some of the best views in Downtown, especially at sunset. Just make sure to dress warmly this time of year. Open Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Asheville Botanical Gardens - Less than five minues from Pack Square, this is one of the city’s favorite hiking spots. The grounds display native Southern Appalachia flora, including some of the most colorful trees around. Nearby greenways on Broadway and Weaver Boulevard also offer easy bicycle riding.
Town Mountain Road - This aptly named highway heads out from the city and eventually climbs up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Come down one of the parkway’s lowest (but not least!) stretches and exit via U.S. Highways 70 or 25, or via NC Route 191.
Posted by Mark Vanderhoff, an Asheville real estate broker at Keller Williams Realty.
