Field notes · 2026 estimate
When to see peak color at Uwharrie National Forest
Peak fall color is predicted around October 31. Plan for the strongest viewing window from October 26 to November 5.
The prediction comes from 14 years of fall color records at this spot, checked against what observers on the ground saw. Where state foliage spotters report peak (New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Missouri), it has landed inside our ±5-day window about two years in three. An unusual summer or autumn can still move it further. Explore fall color around Troy and across North Carolina.
That is 3 days later than usual (October 28): the six weeks to October 13 ran 2.4°F warmer than the 2001–2025 average, and a warmer run before peak delays the color. This will settle about ten days before peak, as the weather comes in.
Nearby locales
Other places to see color near Uwharrie National Forest
1 to 2 hours
2 to 3 hours
- Hanging Rock State Park85 mi · 2 hr 5 minPeak: Oct 28Status: Moderate color
- Pilot Mountain State Park88 mi · 2 hr 6 minPeak: Nov 4Status: Moderate color
- Crowders Mountain State Park91 mi · 2 hr 12 minPeak: Nov 3Status: Early color
- Kings Mountain State Park98 mi · 2 hr 19 minSouth CarolinaPeak: Nov 4Status: Early color
- Mabry Mill117 mi · 2 hr 48 minVirginiaPeak: Oct 23Status: Moderate color