ASHEVILLE, NC

fall into the

mountains Unique ways to experience colorful foliage

Clean crisp air, colorful leaves and unique adventures await leaf-peepers in North Carolina and New York’s mountainous areas. There are a plethora of ways to enjoy the colorful landscape, and even thrill-seekers will find heart-pounding options.

By Sandra Chambers

tains. Riders can view miles and miles of colorful fall patterns like a quilt spread out below. Asheville Hot Air Balloons offers 1-hour fall sunrise flights for the entire family (ages 5+). ashevillehotairballoons.com/hot-airballoon-rides/

ASHEVILLE HOT AIR BALLOONS

A hot air balloon is the best way to experience the pure joy of floating above the earth in and around the Pisgah National Forest and the Great Smoky Moun-

THE GORGE ZIPLINE

Located in Saluda, NC, the Gorge Zipline is billed as the steepest and fastest zipline in the country. Featuring 11 ziplines that descend 1,100 vertical feet,

this canopy adventure traverses the Green River Gorge and 18,000 acres of protected Green River game lands. The zipline is appropriate for adults and kids over 10 years of age. thegorgezipline.com

MOUNT MITCHELL STATE PARK

The highest point east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell is one of the best places to take in colorful views that stretch as far as 85 miles. Travelers can drive, cycle or hike the short quarter mile to the summit platform or tackle the Black Mountain Crest Trail, regarded as one of the toughest trails in the Southeast. www.ncparks.gov/mountmitchell-state-park/home

LAKE PLACID CLIFFSIDE COASTER

The Cliffside Coaster at Mount Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid, New York, (opened fall of 2020) is the longest mountain coaster in the USA. Visitors can learn about the inspiring and fascinating Olympic history of the area as they take in the scenic ride to the top. The coaster allows guests to descend the mountain following the alignment of the 1932 and 1980 Olympic Bobsled Track. mtvanhoevenberg.com

Asheville Hot Air Balloons Gorge Zipline

Lake Placid Coastline Coaster