PEAK EXPERIENCE: VISITORS FLOCK TO WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN AUTUMN TO EXPERIENCE THE HIGH LIFE.

• Author: Wanbauch, Taylor
• Position: FIRST TAKE

There is one undeniable fact when it comes to fall in western North Carolina: The views are breathtaking. Changing leaves and cooler weather attract visitors to the mountains to hike, catch a glimpse of wildlife and sip on local wine, craft beer and cider. It's also a huge business boon for the state. Last year's hotel room occupancy in September, October and November exceeded 70% in 13 mountain counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, Polk, Rutherford, Swain and Transylvania. Visitors spent more than 1.1 million room nights at the region's lodgings. Thousands of other visitors landed at homes through Airbnb and other short-term rental agencies.

3.4

Average number of nights overnight visitors spent in the region in 2017. Out-of-state visitors stayed an average of 4 nights, and in-state visitors stay an average of 2.5 nights.

$724

Average trip expenditure in the mountain region in 2017. The average for overnight parties, averaging 2.1 people, was $789, and day-trip groups spent $518 per visit.

51%

Visitors to North Carolina's mountain region in 2017 with...