It's officially the season of leaf peeping or traveling to enjoy some vibrant fall foliage. In 2025, this shoulder season is now peak travel time , with people opting for quieter, scenic retreats. One of the best U.S. destinations this autumn is the Blue Ridge Mountains. Spanning eight states, you get a range of choices, like the underrated Shenandoah National Park opposite the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , or the many beautiful mountain towns in the region.

Asheville in North Carolina immediately comes to mind when talking about Blue Ridge towns. But just 48 minutes away is a lesser-known fall town that's just as picturesque but free from crowds. It's the town of Sylva, NC , nestled in the Plott Balsam Range. This Blue Ridge gem is brimming with historic small-town cha

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