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- I’ve lived in the Carolinas for years. There’s one small town I swear by visiting every fall. (businessinsider.com)
Brevard, NC: A Fall Tradition of Waterfalls, Trails, and Quaint Charm
Brevard, NC – For many, the crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage signal a time for cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice. For one Greenville, South Carolina resident, Kristina Hernandez, it signals a yearly pilgrimage to the charming mountain town of Brevard, North Carolina. What started in 2019 as a casual visit has blossomed into a cherished fall tradition, drawing her back year after year.
Hernandez, who has been visiting for the past six years, is captivated by Brevard’s unique blend of boutique shops, delectable dining, and unparalleled access to the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From cascading waterfalls to extensive hiking trails, Brevard offers a refreshing escape that has solidified its place as her go-to fall destination.
Downtown Delights and Festive Fun
Brevard’s downtown area is a hub of activity, brimming with character and offering something for every visitor. Hernandez highlights the array of boutique clothing shops and art galleries, but two establishments hold a special place in her heart.
O.P. Taylor’s toy store, the original location, is lauded as a wonderland for all ages, packed to the brim with puzzles, stuffed animals, craft supplies, and Legos.
For outdoor enthusiasts, D.D. Bullwinkel’s Outdoors provides a fantastic selection of gear, from hiking boots to jackets, ensuring adventurers are well-equipped for their explorations.
Beyond shopping, Brevard embraces the fall spirit with events like Pumpkin Fest at Silvermont Park. Held on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the first four weeks of October, this family-friendly event features intricately carved pumpkin displays, a variety of food trucks, face painting, and other activities that delight both residents and visitors.
A Culinary Journey: Fresh Flavors and Local Favorites
The culinary scene in Brevard is another draw for Hernandez, who praises the fresh ingredients and amazing flavors offered by local restaurants. Pescado’s and Sunrise stands out as a versatile choice, offering everything from bagel sandwiches and omelets to tacos and burgers. Her personal recommendation is the veggie bowl, served with chips and salsa.
Another top pick is Gordingos, a “taco fusion” restaurant located within Ecusta Brewing. Here, Hernandez suggests indulging in the Nachos Gordos or any of the flavorful bowls.
Accessible Beauty: Waterfalls and Scenic Drives
One of Brevard’s most significant appeals is its abundance of easily accessible natural wonders, particularly its numerous waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Hernandez often visits with her mother-in-law, who has limited mobility, and appreciates the opportunities to share the area’s beauty with her.
Looking Glass Falls, a majestic 60-foot waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest, is a mere 20 minutes from downtown Brevard. While stunning year-round, the fall season transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of red, yellow, and orange foliage, framing the waterfall in spectacular fashion. A roadside parking area off US 276 South provides a convenient viewing platform for those with mobility challenges, while others can descend to the base of the falls to experience the refreshing mist.
For sweeping panoramic views of the changing leaves, a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must. Hernandez describes the experience as “driving straight through a colorful painting,” with seemingly endless vistas. To avoid crowds and fully immerse oneself in the scenery, she advises an early morning excursion.
Camping Under the Autumn Sky
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, camping in Brevard during the fall offers an idyllic experience. Hernandez enthuses about the perfect weather – warm days and cool nights – ideal for gathering around a campfire before retreating into a cozy sleeping bag.
Davidson River campground, located approximately five miles from Brevard, is a favorite. Some campsites are situated near the river, providing a calming soundtrack to the evenings.
More importantly, this campground serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the area’s extensive hiking trails, with Twin Falls in the Pisgah National Forest being a personal favorite trek. Visitors planning a trip should note that the campground will be closed for renovations from November to May 2026.
Unforgettable Hikes and Epic Fall Views
Brevard’s location within North Carolina’s Transylvania County, home to over 1,000 miles of trails, solidifies its reputation as a hiker’s paradise. Moore Cove Falls, less than half an hour from Brevard in the Pisgah National Forest, offers a unique experience where visitors can walk behind the waterfall. The relatively easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike makes it accessible for many.
For those willing to venture a bit further, Black Balsam Knob, Sam Knob, and Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower, all less than an hour from downtown, provide incredible and widespread views that are particularly spectacular during the fall.
Finally, a truly unique seasonal phenomenon awaits about 45 minutes west, near Cashiers, North Carolina, at Whiteside Mountain. From mid-October to early November, typically between 5:30 p.m. and 6:15 p.m., the setting sun casts a shadow that strikingly resembles a bear, a spectacle known as the Shadow of the Bear.
Brevard’s allure, with its blend of small-town charm and breathtaking natural beauty, continues to draw visitors like Kristina Hernandez back year after year, solidifying its status as a premier fall destination in the heart of North Carolina.