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100 varieties of trees on display along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Birch, dogwood, poplar and sourwood trees are usually among the first to change colors, often beginning in late September. Some varieties of oak, hickory, elm and soft maple turn varying shades of yellow as the season progresses. Some varieties of ash leaves also turn yellow, but some, like the white ash, have a purplish hue, as do white oaks. Red oaks and hard maples display a brilliant flame-red hue. Generally speaking, deep summer greens still dominate the colorscape into late September and the first week of October. Then the reds, yellows, oranges, and browns begin to take over, peaking around the third week in October. But, again, much depends on elevation and weather conditions.

Besides the previously mentioned toll-free number, the National Park Service maintains a Blue Ridge Parkway information website at www.nps.gov/blri. Additionally, there are numerous privately run websites, such as www.highcountryparkway.com and www.virtualblueridge.com, providing the lowdown on fall colors and other aspects of the Parkway.

A day trip or more along any portion of the spectacular Blue Ridge Parkway
is an unforgettable way to experience the splendor of Fall. And don't forget your camera! There'll be memories that you will want to share and enjoy over and over for years to come.

Learn more about this author, Ron James.
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