Asheville, NC, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Asheville, North Carolina, has been recognized as the most affordable destination for fall foliage trips in the United States for 2024, with roundtrip airfare averaging $170. Jesse Neugarten, CEO of Dollar Flight Club, noted the city’s blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, which enhance its appeal to travelers. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy local cuisine, and witness vibrant autumn colors along scenic routes. The peak foliage period is projected from late October to early November, making Asheville an ideal spot for fall getaways.
Asheville, North Carolina, has been named the most affordable fall-foliage destination in the United States for 2024, according to a recent report by Dollar Flight Club. With an average roundtrip airfare of just $170, Asheville’s flight prices are reported to be 10% lower than the previous year, making it an appealing option for travelers seeking stunning autumn landscapes.
Jesse Neugarten, the CEO of Dollar Flight Club, remarked on the growing popularity of fall foliage trips, highlighting how Asheville’s combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences contributes to its attractiveness. The city is renowned for its breathtaking mountain air and scenic Blue Ridge views, paired with a lively food scene that draws many visitors each year.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find that Asheville offers numerous hiking destinations. Notable spots include Catawba Falls in Pisgah National Forest and the picturesque Max Patch on the Appalachian Trail, where visitors can explore the vibrant fall colors. Additionally, the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway provides opportunities for a leisurely drive to take in stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, while tours of the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned home in the United States, are a popular attraction.
When it comes to dining and entertainment, Asheville does not disappoint. The city features a diverse array of breweries, restaurants, and shopping options, along with a thriving arts scene and venues for live music. These attributes, combined with its outstanding natural scenery, contribute to Asheville’s status as a top destination for fall foliage enthusiasts.
The ideal time for experiencing peak leaf-peeping in Asheville is late October, while foliage in the nearby mountains typically begins changing by the end of September and reaches its peak around mid-October. The Dollar Flight Club analysis, which spanned over 500,000 airfare data points collected between June 15 and August 1, identified Asheville as the most affordable option among popular fall foliage destinations. Following Asheville, Boston ranks second with an average roundtrip flight cost of $260, while Burlington, Vermont, and the Adirondack Mountains in New York come in third and fourth with average flights of $278 and $290, respectively.
The analysis also noted a significant drop in average airfare prices for major international routes, with reductions ranging from 15% to 60% since June 2024. The report suggests that the best window for booking flights for fall foliage enthusiasts is between September 17 and October 10. The peak foliage dates for Asheville in 2024 are projected to occur between October 23 and November 3.
In addition to Asheville, the nearby town of Waynesville is emerging as a recognized foliage destination, offering serene mountain scenery along with local cuisine and a rich bluegrass music heritage. The Swag, a luxury lodge situated near Waynesville, provides upscale amenities, including hiking trails and expert-led experiences, making it another attractive option for those planning fall getaways.
Asheville’s overall score of 70.6 in a study conducted by Islands.com reflects its abundant scenic routes, hiking trails, and the length of its peak foliage season, affirming its place as a highly desirable location for autumn travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the peak foliage dates in Asheville for 2024?
The peak foliage dates for Asheville in 2024 are estimated to be between October 23 and November 3.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Asheville during the fall?
Visitors can enjoy hiking at popular locations such as Catawba Falls and Max Patch, as well as scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
How does Asheville’s airfare compare to other fall foliage destinations?
Asheville has an average roundtrip airfare of $170, making it the most affordable fall-foliage destination, compared to second-place Boston at $260.
Data Summary
| Destination | Average Roundtrip Airfare | Peak Foliage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Asheville, NC | $170 | October 23 – November 3 |
| Boston, MA | $260 | Unknown |
| Burlington, VT | $278 | Unknown |
| Adirondack Mountains, NY | $290 | Unknown |
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Additional Resources
- Southern Living: Asheville Named Most Affordable Fall Foliage Destination
- WBTV: Asheville Ranked No. 1 City in US for Fall Foliage
- Travel + Leisure: Asheville Named Best Budget Fall Foliage Destination
- AOL: Cozy Mountain Town Near Asheville
- Parade: Things to Do in Waynesville, NC
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Fall Foliage
- Google Scholar: Fall Foliage Travel
- Google News: Fall Foliage Travel
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
