Visiting North Carolina mountains in May?

Question

I absolutely love the mountains of western North Carolina. I've been there at least 4 times since I was little (now 22 years old now...) We went back last fall and I was a bit dismayed by the "color display" of the leaves. They seemed brighter and prettier when I was little. 

Now I'm yearning to go back next summer. I keep telling everyone I love summer up there because of the emerald green beauty and lush foliage of the vegetation and trees. 

I wanted to know if going in late May would be ideal, because the cabin we want to stay at is charging for 'low-season' instead of June when rates become much higher in 'peak-season' summertime. 
Will the foliage be completely back from the winter? Will everything be lush and green? 

Thanks everyone.

Ranger · Accepted Answer

I live in the NC mountains and the leaves will be out in late May.  The very highest elevations might possibly be lagging a little depending on the spring weather but the vast majority of the foliage will be out by then.  

It won't be as completely full as it will be in late June when the leaves have had time to mature but it will be very nice.  The "low season" you're referring too is not about the leaves, but about the peak tourist times here.  More families will be coming beginning in June when school is out for the summer and that's when "peak occupancy" times begin.  Thus the higher rates on rentals and the name "peak season".  

I think you'll be very happy coming at that time of year and even more so because there will be fewer tourists.  Another peak time around here is in the fall during the leaves color change and then again after Thanksgiving when the ski slopes crank up.

You didn't say what part of the mountains you'll be visiting.  I know a lot about this part of the state and I'd be happy to offer further advice about things to see etc if you're interested.  Just contact me if I can explain anything more fully for you.  I've probably answered other NC mountain related questions in the past if you want to take the time to look back through my answered questions.

Hope this helps and have fun visiting our area!

Visiting North Carolina mountains in May?

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