RALEIGH – As communities in Western North Carolina continue recovering from Hurricane Helene, many scenic byways remain open and accessible, welcoming travelers eager to experience fall's beauty and support local businesses.
With recovery efforts underway, now is the perfect time to experience the best of fall in North Carolina. Crisp air, golden light and a kaleidoscope of leaves await along the state's 62 scenic byways, offering unforgettable adventures. Whether you're chasing peak foliage or simply looking for a scenic escape, travelers can enjoy winding roads, rolling landscapes and welcoming communities filled with local charm, regional food and plenty of spots worth stopping for.
“North Carolina's scenic byways not only showcase some of the state's most breathtaking fall landscapes but also serve as vital routes supporting the recovery and resilience of communities impacted by recent storms," said Jeremy Goodwin, N.C. Department of Transportation's roadside environmental engineer. “This season, travelers have a wonderful opportunity to explore, enjoy the stunning scenery and contribute to the ongoing revival of Western North Carolina's towns and local businesses."
The following North Carolina mountain scenic byways remain open and welcome visitors this season:
- Appalachian Medley
- Big Horse Creek Byway
- Cherohala Skyway
- Fontana Byway
- Forest Heritage Scenic Byway
- French Broad Overview
- Highlands of the Roan Byway
- Historic Flat Rock Byway
- Interstate 26 Scenic Byway
- Little Parkway
- Mission Crossing
- Mt. Mitchell Scenic Drive (Mt. Mitchell State Park is now open but has to be accessed by the Blue Ridge Parkway from the western side. The Blue Ridge Parkway is still closed from the park entrance to N.C. 80.)
- Nantahala Byway
- New River Valley Byway
- Upper Yadkin Way
- U.S. 421 Scenic Highway
- Waterfall Byway
- Whitewater Way
Before traveling, NCDOT encourages motorists to visit DriveNC.gov to ensure their route is accessible. To find other scenic byways across the state, visit this webpage.