Volume 14
September 12, 2024
This weeks feature:
Fall Foliage Hikes in The Carolinas
Welcome to The Wild Weekly, your passport to adventure! Each Thursday, we deliver inspiring stories, must-visit outdoor spots, and practical tips to ignite your passion for the wild. Dive in, discover, and let your spirit roam free with Born Wild Live Free.
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Hey Wild Ones,
It’s fall foliage time of the year again—the crisp air, the golden hues, and the crunch of leaves underfoot. Fall is the perfect season to explore the Carolinas’ scenic trails and take in the vibrant autumn foliage. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful nature walk, we’ve curated a guide to help you plan the ultimate leaf-peeping adventure.
Top Trails to Catch the Colors:
1. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) Experience the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway , renowned for its stunning fall views. With endless overlooks and trailheads, it’s a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. Start with the Craggy Gardens Trail for a relatively easy hike with panoramic views.
2. DuPont State Recreational Forest (NC) Known for its waterfalls, DuPont offers an added bonus during fall—the trails transform into a mosaic of red, yellow, and orange. For a moderate challenge, try the Triple Falls Trail and finish with a view of High Falls.
3. Table Rock Mountain (SC) If you’re up for a challenge, Table Rock Mountain in South Carolina will reward you with sweeping views of vibrant foliage. It’s a tough hike, but the views at the summit make it all worth it.
Leaf-Peeping Photography Tips:
The Carolinas’ fall foliage is a sight to behold, and capturing it on camera is a must. Here are a few tips to make sure your fall photos are frame-worthy:
- Golden Hour: Plan your hike around the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the sun is soft and golden. This lighting enhances the colors of the leaves.
- Focus on Contrast: Capture the vibrant leaves against a clear blue sky or the rough texture of tree bark for a stunning visual contrast.
- Try Different Perspectives: Get low to the ground to photograph leaves from below, or find unique angles where the light filters through the trees.
Planning Your Adventure:
- When to Go: The peak foliage season typically runs from mid-October through early November, but this can vary depending on weather conditions and elevation.
- What to Pack: Dress in layers, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your camera or smartphone to snap those amazing fall photos.
- Sustainability Tip: Leave no trace! Enjoy the beauty of nature but make sure to pack out everything you brought with you to keep these trails pristine for future hikers.
Bert’s Reflections:
As we roam the wild, it’s easy to forget that our small actions add up. But remember, every time you pack out that piece of trash or stick to the trail, you’re part of something bigger. You’re helping to preserve the wild for the next person who comes along, just like others did for you. It’s a simple truth: nature gives us so much, and it’s on us to give back by leaving no trace.
As always, stay curious, stay adventurous, and most importantly, stay safe.
Stay Wild! The Born Wild Live Free Team
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our latest merchandise at BWLF Shop . Get 15% off with code Bert15 . See the cool State Tees for North and South Carolina!
Share your stories and photos with us on Instagram @bornwildlivefree_ and you might be featured in our next story!
