Best Fall Foliage Drives

Imagine WRAL Trafficologist Mark Roberts as a Christmas tree farmer. That fantasy arose from Mark's peaceful getaway to the mountains this weekend. Our conversation about Christmas trees this morning evolved into a discussion of the best places to catch fall colors in North Carolina. Mark says he is color blind. So, to him the pine needles look about as nice as the leaves cascading down a huge scarlet maple. North Carolina's peak week for fall colors is just three weeks away for the mountains. So lets start planning. What is your favorite fall foliage drive? Where can we find the richest reds, most dazzling yellows and the warmest orange hues nature has to offer? Please share your knowledge with others. Here are some of my favorites:

New River Byway in Ashe County

Blue Ridge Parkway near Doughton Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Anywhere near Valle Crucis

Highway 181 between Morganton and Linville

I'd love to hear some drives that are off the beaten path! Thanks.

Bill