Forests in the South are filled with broadleaf trees that change colors in spectacular fashion every fall. The optimal time to see fall colors at their peak in the Southeast is during late October and early November, making now the perfect time to start planning your trip. Best of all, these destinations are within day-trip distance to Atlanta, so you don’t have to book a full week’s vacation to see some of the best natural beauty in the country. Here’s where to go to see fall colors in the Southeast in 2018.

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Located in Northern Georgia, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a must-see destination for sightseers, bird watchers, hikers, and fall foliage photographers alike.

With over 800,000 acres of trees in its boundaries, this forest is perfect for spontaneous travelers who like to freestyle their trip. Pick a direction and you’ll be sure to find some truly unique sights and vistas wherever the road takes you.

Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is a state park located in North Carolina about a 6-hour drive away from downtown Atlanta. This park is unique for having the highest peak of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which means you’ll have a great vantage point to see the season’s changing leaves. Hikers and backpackers can enjoy the fall foliage up close with almost 2500 square miles of forest to explore.

Table Rock State Park

Nestled in South Carolina’s section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Table Rock State Park is a 3-hour drive from downtown Atlanta. This park features 80 miles of interconnected trailways for a truly immersive fall foliage viewing experience. Enjoy the fall colors from your private cabin or on top of one of the park’s two mountains for a refreshing weekend trip.

Cherohala Skyway

If you’re a driving enthusiast, the Cherohala Skyway deserves a spot on the top of your fall foliage routes. The Skyway is a wide two-lane road with plenty of expansive views and stop-offs for your photographing pleasure.

With 40 miles of road that winds up and down the sides of mountains for a diverse range of foliage and colors, this road is a true visual treat that is sure to delight drivers.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Cloudland Canyon State Park in Northern Georgia is the perfect weekend getaway for people looking to experience fall foliage up close and personally. Located two and a half hours from Atlanta, this park features cabins, campsites, and hiking with close access to the park’s central canyon.

From the canyon’s ridge, you’ll have fantastic views of all kinds of broadleaf trees no matter what direction you look. With plenty of accessibility options, Cloudland Canyon is a must-visit for families and hiking enthusiasts alike.

Blue Ridge Parkway

No fall foliage list is complete without mentioning the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic road starts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and winds 469 miles all the way to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

There are plenty of quaint towns along the way to refill your gas tank, get something for lunch, or stop at an inn for the night. On top of that, there are plenty of stop-overs for hikers and backpackers along the road, making this route ideal for people with a diverse assortment of interests.

Road Trip Maintenance with T3 Atlanta

Whether you’re heading as far as the Northeast or enjoying the fall colors in the North Georgia mountains, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready before you get started. The last thing you want on your weekend trip is to be stuck on the side of the road, after all!

Make the most of your fall foliage trip by making an appointment with T3 Atlanta. We’ll inspect your vehicle and make important maintenance recommendations so that you can take to the road with confidence this fall. Give us a call today!