🍁 The Magic of Leaf Change Season in Pisgah National Forest: 11 Reasons to Visit Valley Bear Farms This Fall
When autumn arrives in Western North Carolina, the Pisgah National Forest transforms into a glowing canvas of reds, golds, and fiery oranges. The crisp air, cool nights, and slower pace make it the most magical time of year to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains. At Valley Bear Farms, just outside Brevard, NC, fall isn’t just a season—it’s an experience. Picture yourself hiking through trails lined with blazing maples, sipping cider by a fire pit, and savoring starry nights wrapped in a blanket.
If you’re dreaming of a cozy and adventurous getaway, here are 11 reasons to visit Valley Bear Farms this fall.
One. Leaf Change Magic in Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is one of the top fall foliage destinations in the U.S. From late September through early November, you’ll see a kaleidoscope of color sweeping from the high peaks down to the valleys. Take a drive on the
Blue Ridge Parkway, hike to
Looking Glass Rock, or simply enjoy the view right from our property—the mountains are glowing everywhere you look.
Two. Perfect Weather for Hiking — On and Off Property
Cooler temps in the 60s and 70s make fall the ideal hiking season. Trails like
Moore Cove Falls, Graveyard Fields, and
John Rock are especially stunning against a backdrop of changing leaves. But you don’t even have to leave the property to immerse yourself in the season—Valley Bear Farms has over 5 miles of private trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along streams. It’s leaf-peeping right out your door.
Three. Cozy Nights Around the Fire Pits
After a day of adventure, gather around one of our fire pits for marshmallows, cider, and stories under the stars. Fall nights in the mountains are cool enough to need a blanket, making the glow of the fire all the more magical.
Four. Festivals to Celebrate Fall
Autumn in Brevard and Transylvania County is packed with seasonal celebrations:
Festivals in Brevard & Transylvania County
- Mountain Song Festival
(Sept 5–6, 2025): Acoustic mountain music at the Brevard Music Center.
- Transylvania Farmers Market
(Saturdays, Sept–Nov 2025): Fresh produce and artisan goods in downtown Brevard.
- Mountain Monarch Festival
(Oct 4, 2025): Celebrate monarch butterfly migration at Gorges State Park.
- Pisgah Conservancy 10th Anniversary
(Oct 18, 2025): Hosted at Oskar Blues Brewery in Brevard with activities and brews.
- Halloweenfest
(Oct 25, 2025): A downtown Brevard tradition with costumes, live music, and vendors.
- Skalloween
(Oct 25, 2025): A lively ska band concert and costume party at 185 King Street.
Festivals Near Brevard
- North Carolina Apple Festival
(late Aug–early Sept): Hendersonville’s apple harvest street fair.
- WNC Farmers Market Fall Festival
(Oct 4, 2025): Hayrides, produce, and music in Asheville.
- Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival
(Oct 12, 2025): 100+ artisan vendors celebrating fall colors in Cashiers.
- Highlands Heritage Jamboree
(Sept 27, 2025): Music, dance, and heritage traditions in Highlands.
- Highlands Food & Wine Festival
(Nov 13–16, 2025): Culinary and wine experiences paired with mountain views.
Five. Scenic Fall Drives
From Valley Bear Farms, you’re minutes away from world-class drives. The Blue Ridge Parkway, the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, and the winding road to Mount Pisgah are musts during peak leaf change. Every turn offers postcard-worthy views.
Six. Waterfalls Surrounded by Color
Known as the Land of Waterfalls, Transylvania County boasts more than 250 cascades. Fall is the best time to see them—Looking Glass Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Sliding Rock sparkle even brighter when framed by fiery foliage.
Seven. Adventure Without the Heat
From mountain biking in
Dupont State Forest to fly fishing in the
Davidson River
or kayaking on the
French Broad River, cooler weather makes outdoor activities more refreshing and enjoyable.
Eight. Apple Picking and Hard Cider
Autumn means apple season in North Carolina. Visit
Sky Top Orchard for apple picking, cider donuts, and hayrides, or sip craft hard cider at nearby breweries for a crisp taste of the season. Stop by the General Store to pick up some for your unit.
Nine. Charming Downtown Brevard
Stroll the tree-lined streets of
downtown Brevard and browse boutiques, galleries, and local coffee shops. In fall, the energy is cozy and welcoming, with seasonal menus, live music, and plenty of mountain-town charm.
Ten. Starry Skies and Crisp Nights
With cooler, clearer air, fall skies are stunning. Step outside your yurt, cabin, or A-frame at Valley Bear Farms to stargaze—it’s one of the most peaceful ways to end a mountain day.
Eleven. Stay in Style at Valley Bear Farms
Fall is all about slowing down and savoring life’s simple pleasures—and your stay should feel just as magical as the season itself. At Valley Bear Farms, you can choose from:
- Luxury Homes for a spacious, upscale retreat for family gatherings
- The A-Frame Collection with iconic, cozy mountain vibes
- Creekside Yurts for an immersive nature experience with modern comforts
- Mirror Cabins with sleek, reflective exteriors blending into the forest
- Glamping Cabins that combine rustic charm with the comforts of home
No matter your style, every stay includes access to our entire 150-acre resort with 5 miles of private trails, wood-fired sauna, creek-fed pond, pickleball court, disc golf, bocce ball, volleyball, outdoor fire pits, and the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
🍂 Plan Your Fall Escape Today
The leaf change season in Pisgah National Forest is short, spectacular, and one of the most popular times to visit. Book your stay at Valley Bear Farms and experience the crisp air, fiery colors, and cozy mountain magic for yourself.
👉
Reserve your Luxury Home, A-Frame, Yurt, Mirror Cabin, or Glamping Cabin today
and make this fall unforgettable.