Fall leaves and local love: Why visiting the mountains now makes a big impact

BANNER ELK, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — If you’re planning a getaway to the mountains, now’s the time to go. The fall colors are peaking, and your visit could do more than just refresh your soul — it could help small businesses still recovering from last year’s closures.

Visitors like Laura Byrd say the early mornings and long hikes are worth it.

“It was beautiful,” Byrd said. “We stopped and took some pictures. So fantastic.”

She and her husband try to visit often — especially when the crowds are light early in the morning.

“We’re local, so we try to come up when there’s not a ton of people,” Byrd said.

Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, the views never get old. Rebecca Gyi said it’s about more than just the scenery.

“It’s just a beautiful way to enjoy the day, to enjoy the nature, to enjoy what we have while we have it,” Gyi said.

Last year, Hurricane Helene forced closures along the Blue Ridge Parkway, cutting off access to popular spots and hurting local economies. While the Parkway isn’t fully reopened, communities are welcoming visitors back — and say they need them.

“We survive on tourism,” said Nancy Owen, Director of the Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority. “All of our small businesses survive on the tourists. It’s the backbone of our economy.”

Businesses like Big Al’s Parkway Pub saw a boost this summer when the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened in front of it, but owners say more help is needed.

“I think everybody should just keep an eye out for here,” said owner Alan Johnson.

If you want to catch the best of the fall colors, you have about 10 days left.

“Come visit,” Owen said. “That’s the best thing you can do.”

And if you’re planning a trip this weekend, don’t miss the Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk — a quirky, beloved tradition that draws crowds from across the region. It’s a celebration of fall, fun and folklore — and another way your visit can support the mountain community.