NC fall getaway: Hike, sip and enjoy fall color in the Yadkin Valley

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Yadkin Valley offers beautiful fall foliage, scenic views, activities for adults and families with children, and a wine scene that’s respected throughout the world.

In the fall, Yadkin Valley comes alive with changing leaves, festive events and vibrant local flavors — here are some of the can’t-miss highlights.

Historic Downtown Elkin hosts the annual Yadkin Valley Pumpkin Festival every fourth Saturday in September. Local businesses offer handmade pottery, antiques, food and seasonal produce for sale, and kids can paint pumpkins and jump in bounce houses.

“In Elkin, thousands come out to line the streets for the annual pumpkin festival, where artisans set up booths and farmers weigh in their biggest pumpkins,” said Jonczak.

There are multiple u-pick farms in the area, and many also offer activities, including hayrides, a chance to meet live animals and a jump pad, among other options. The Farm in Dobsonwhich is a short 10 minute drive from downtown Elkin is one of the many options and is family-owned and fully working.

“The Farm in Dobson has a great family feel when it comes to pumpkin patches, a corn maze, family-friendly activities, and more,” said Jonczak.

Also every fall, The Barn at Heritage Farm, which Jonczak owns with his wife Jessica, hosts an annual pediatric stroke charity event. There are food trucks, vendors, music, a silent auction and a raffle, with all proceeds going to a deserving child and their family.

“The Yadkin Valley is a wonderful place to visit when looking for a small-town feel that supports friends, neighbors, communities, and businesses,” said Jonczak. “The views are just the icing on the cake.”

And, on various days throughout the farmers market season, the Surry County Farmers Market sets up shop in Elkin and neighboring towns, Dobson and Mount Airy where people can enjoy live music, freshly picked fall produce, fall flowers, crafts, pumpkin spice baked goods and more.

“Even though there are many wineries in the area, every place you go has different varieties,” said Jeroslow. “Because of the soil and weather, many grapes can be grown here.”

“In the wine world, we are better known, but we are trying to get the word out to the general public,” said Jeroslow. “You don’t have to travel to Europe for chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon or merlot. You can get it right here in North Carolina.”

One of the best times to visit the wineries is during the fall harvest. Many vineyards offer tours of the harvesting and winemaking processes as well as samples of the varietals.

“The best wine tasting experience is to have a smorgasbord of grapes to taste,” said Jeroslow.

Whether new to wine or a longtime connoisseur, the starting point for a winery tour is at the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Visitor Center.

“They can direct people to wineries based on which direction they would like to go, and they can make their own wine trail,” said Jeroslow.

Many wineries in Elkin also offer fall events and festivals, with live music, food trucks and even weekend getaways in onsite cabins.

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The local wineries also offer a chance to see the vibrant colors.

“Being in the foothills, we have a nice leaf-changing season,” said Jeroslow. “It’s a really lovely, charming area, with an amazing variety of wines and southern hospitality. You’re welcomed with a smile and a story. It’s like visiting a friend’s house.”