We came across this terrific description of leaf season in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park today and, in response to the questions we've been getting like:

"Are the leaves changing color yet?"

"If I come in late September will I see any fall Foliage?"

"What kind of colors will still be left if I plan a trip for early November?"

(ETC.)

Check out what the Park Rangers have to say:

"Elevation profoundly affects when fall colors change in the park. At higher elevations, where the climate is similar to New England’s, color displays start as early as mid-September with the turning of yellow birch, American beech, mountain maple, hobblebush, and pin cherry.

From early to mid-October, fall colors develop above 4,000 feet. To enjoy them, drive the Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the Foothills Parkway.

The fall color display usually reaches peak at mid and lower elevations between mid-October and early November. This is the park’s most spectacular display as it includes such colorful trees as sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red maple, and the hickories."

www.nps.gov/grsm/fallcolor

What a blessing to enjoy such a long season of color!

So, in September and early October, to see some of the beautiful leaf colors: Look up!

By early November, well, I guess you  need to look down to the valleys?