Leaf Behind Fall Memories

Bark! Bark! Hello adventurers! Mr. Pickles is the name. I’m a four-legged fluff ball who lives for the crunch of leaves under paws and the crisp scent of a fall breeze. And let me tell you, there’s no better site to experience this magic than autumn in Highlands, North Carolina.

If you’ve never visited this mountain town during harvest season, let me paint a picture for you. Trees are dressed in shades of red, orange and gold. The cool breezes make your ears perk up and carry the smell of fresh-baked goods for miles. Follow winding trails through the forests where squirrels are extra frisky and I promise you, well, I always have a good time. Just keep me on a leash ’cause I love the thrill of the chase! Now that’s a recipe for tail-wagging happiness.

Let me take you through some of my favorite fall activities in and around Highlands. Whether you’re a human or a fellow canine, I promise these experiences will have you barking with joy.

 

🐾Tails, Tails, Tails!

    Trails, Trails, Trails!

How many times can I say you HAVE to see the Appalachian Mountain autumn leaves, a canvas of color across the Nantahala National Rainforest. There’s so much to witness on local trails: Waterfalls, massive stone formations, a critter or two, it’s a Carolina gem. Here’s a snapshot of some outdoor autumn activities in Highlands, North Carolina, that get me drooling each season.

As Summer Ends, Longer Trails Take Wind

If you sniffed out my post on summer activities, you’ll know all about hiking the Yellow Mountain Trail during the warmer months. In fall, the dense forest of shade turns vibrant end-of-year colors that descend from the treetops. Why chase your tail when there’s so many leaves to run after in the bustling wind?

The Yellow Mountain trails gets a bit rocky at times and it’s certainly a test for endurance. Those up to the challenge will be thrilled at the prospect of hiking out 12 miles in one of the longest treks Highlands has to offer. Should you reach the summit, adventurers will be rewarded with a view of the fire tower built in 1934 by the Forest Service and Civilian Conservation Corps.

Home on the Range(r Falls)

For a shorter excursion, grab your leash and lace up those hiking boots before journeying with a favorite human to Ranger Falls. True to its name, there’s a wondrous waterfall I would surely lap up, if only I could get close enough. The strength of the water is dependent on the season’s rainfall, but I can always catch a ripple of the current at the apex of autumn.

This trail is roughly 2.5 miles and loops you back to the start, so pre-planning isn’t much of a hassle. There’s a mix of slopes and flat terrain, but it’s overall a mild expedition. When I was a younger pup, I’d dream of sneaking away to chase chipmunks through the mud!

Exploring the Highlands Botanical Garden

Dogs are welcome as long as we stay leashed, which I do, unless a rogue squirrel appears. The fall garden here is a feast for the senses. Crunchy twigs underfoot, the earthy scent of moss, plus a host of colored leaves dot the trees and line each garden path. Check out their fall events to find the perfect outing for yourself and your entire entourage. There’s always an autumn walk or artsy activity at the Highlands Botanical Garden.

🐾Pawty it up all Autumn in Highlands, North Carolina

For the last third of the year, I’m as likely a resident of The Park on Main as I am Main Street during autumn in Highlands, North Carolina. Here’s a snippet of what you might find around my furever home when harvest season comes about.

Highlands Jamboree

The quintessential kickoff for fall starts with the Highlands Heritage Jamboree. Open to all, locals and newcomers alike can head to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce website to read a breakdown of the year’s upcoming celebration. You’re bound to have a howlin’ good time between the folk music and specialty vendors.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park serves as the primary venue for the annual Jamboree. Being an outdoor facility, it’s friendly for pups like me, and humans too, of course. I’d hazard to guess that the moonshine’s not for me, but there’s always plenty to go around. Plus, the barbecue is a staple at every event, so be sure to grab some in between dancing. I would myself, but my refined upbringing demands proper comportment in the public eye.

An Autumn Excursion

Let me tell you about Highlands Food & Wine, a favorite autumn celebration in Highlands, North Carolina. Going on a 10-year tradition, this dual beverage/music festival is a must-see for anyone passing through, usually occurring toward the middle of November. It’s like heaven, but with more wine. Spread out over a few days, tastings are held at an assortment of different venues; I once thought they might even ask to use my dog house! In year’s past, my human most enjoyed sampling the Boisset Collection, though the Diageo brand also garnered much praise.

Visit the Highlands Food & Wine website to learn about each year’s lineup of select beverages, unique venues and if any master sommeliers are present. They also list the musical artist lineup each year, which takes me on a deep dive listening to my favorite barks…er…beats. Since 2016, this celebration has heralded the joys of good food, great wine and sweet melodies. No doubt, this event is ten tails down my favorite in November.

More Music (and Brew!) this Autumn

I look forward to catching annual fall performances at Western Carolina Brew and Wine, a dog-friendly venue serving up more than just cold beverages. In fact, on many afternoons and evenings, you might even get to meet the musical artists. I wanted to play music bingo, turns out, the bingo balls aren’t meant to be chased…oops! Still, there’s plenty of refreshing beer and wine to savor in the venue or on their exterior patio.

🐾Fall into Highlands

Highlands in the fall is a place of wonder. It’s a time when the mountains feel alive and every walk is a new adventure. Whether you’re chasing leaves or sharing a pumpkin-flavored snack with your favorite human, there’s no better time to be a dog in the mountains.

If you find yourself at The Park on Main around Halloween, ask about Mr. Pickles’ Howl-A-Ween Costume Contest. My namesake event is a yearly competition where fellow rufflers are judged on their spooky apparel. It’s a real treat and I’m all about tricks and treats as October comes to a close.

So, grab your leash, pack some treats and enjoy autumn in Highlands, North Carolina. I’ll be the one in the plaid bandana, ears flapping in the wind, leading the charge toward the nearest trail.

Until next time, keep your paws muddy and your tail high.

Wooffully yours,
Mr. Pickles 🐾