Things to Do This Fall in Brevard, North Carolina

Forest path framed by autumn trees with orange, red, and yellow leaves under a clear blue sky.

Visit Brevard this fall for a gorgeous escape to the mountains before a busy holiday season. Although every season has its own beauty, fall is one of the best times to visit the mountains. There’s a reason the mountains are known for the vibrant fall foliage that only lasts a couple weeks each year. Besides just admiring the scenery, you can also attend seasonal events, shop local businesses, dine and drink craft beers, and enjoy outdoor activities as the weather cools off.

We currently have cabins available during peak fall foliage mid-late October. Take advantage of our reduced nightly rates and visit Western North Carolina during this stunning season.

Get Outdoors

Paddle the French Broad River

Find entry points to the river right here at Deerwoode Reserve or at various spots throughout the county. Float, paddle, or fish the river on your own or go with a local guide from Headwaters Outfitters.

Hike in Parks & Forests

To be fully immersed in the fall foliage, visit one of our nearby state parks and forests like DuPont State Recreational Forest, Pisgah National Forest, and Gorges State Park. They have free entry and hikes ranging from easy to challenging with stunning waterfalls and views.

Fish in the Davidson River

In Pisgah National Forest, enjoy the cooler weather by fly fishing with a local guide from Davidson River Outfitters. A great activity whether you’ve gone fly fishing before or want to try it for the first time.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The most iconic spot for viewing fall color is by driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive itself can be beautiful, but there’s also plenty of overlooks to view the mountain range and valleys. Note: higher elevations will reach peak color before lower elevations.

Winding rural road with double yellow lines curving through a foggy autumn forest to disappear into the mist.

Local Events

Pumpkin Fest

Fridays & Saturdays October 3-30, 2026 | 6 – 9 PM

Pumpkin Fest is a family-friendly Halloween celebration held at Silvermont Park on Friday and Saturday nights in October. Wander down the short walking trail to see beautifully illuminated carved pumpkin displays. There are also local musicians, food trucks, games, storytelling, face painting, a White Squirrel scavenger hunt, and tours of the historic Silvermont Mansion.

Halloweenfest

October 24, 2026 | 10 AM – 5 PM

Halloweenfest is a free, family-friendly annual event in downtown Brevard! Join in on the fun with bounce houses, costume contest and parade, the Magic Book Bus, hula hoop dance party, craft & retail vendors, food, and more! While there you can explore the businesses located downtown and trick or treat.

Respira Yoga

Mondays | 6 – 7 PM

Join us for outdoor yoga at the Chapel in the Trees right here at Deerwoode! This is open to guests and to the public with a suggested donation of $10-$20. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and start your week off with intention.

Group yoga class in an open wooden shelter surrounded by trees, mats laid out on the deck, participants lifting arms overhead toward a lake view.

Shopping

Downtown Brevard

Stroll our cute downtown and pop into local small businesses. Shop from a variety of retailers for art, clothing, outdoor gear, unique gifts, kids toys, jewelry, and more! Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat or get a sweet treat while you’re there.

Brick clock-tower building with a tall evergreen nearby, flags in foreground at sunset, warm sky above.

Transylvania Farmers Market

Saturdays | 9 AM – 12 PM

Every Saturday morning, local growers and makers set up at the farmers market near downtown. Pick up produce, honey, baked goods, cleaning supplies, art, coffee, and other snacks. Explore the Transylvania Farmers Market!

The Outpost at Lake Toxaway

For a one stop shop full of over 50 local vendors, head over to The Outpost at Lake Toxaway. Open daily, you can gem mine, sip local coffee and shop a variety of snacks, goods, souvenirs, and art.

Downtown Hendersonville

If you can’t get enough of charming mountain downtowns, head over to Hendersonville. Pop in local businesses selling art, clothing, kids items, decor, and more. There are also fun festivals throughout the year so be sure to check to see if anything is happening during your stay in Brevard.

Street view of a small downtown with parked cars and holiday wreaths on storefronts

Outdoor Dining

Pisgah Tavern at the Hub

After a long day of exploring Pisgah or the Blue Ridge Parkway, end the day with a beer and food from a food truck out on their patio. While there, you can enjoy live music, and shop for outdoor gear.

Oskar Blues Taproom & Brewery

Relax on the outdoor patio, get brews from the outdoor patio bar, grab burgers and fries from the CHUB Wagon food truck, and enjoy the cool fall air. They have live music, trivia, and various events throughout the week.

Ecusta Brewing Company

Located near Pisgah National Forest and right off the Brevard Bike Path, you can kick back after a long day of adventuring. Get a drink from their taproom, a meal from Gordingo’s Kitchen (or a food truck on Tuesdays), and unwind after a long day.

Broad St. Plaza

For a more upscale outdoor dining experience, head to Broad St. Plaza in downtown Brevard. Quixote Fine Cuisine has authentic, home-style Mexican cuisine open for brunch and dinner. Wood & Vine is a wood-fired bistro and wine bar that has a shareable menu for the whole table.

We hope you enjoy the stunning views, local goods, and delicious restaurants in Brevard and the neighboring towns. Stay in a cabin at Deerwoode Reserve to have a central base camp for all your adventures. View Explore Brevard’s interactive fall color map to see when peak color is predicted and make plans to stay at Deerwoode to enjoy this beautiful season!