Just past the peak?

Although prime leaf-viewing season may be just past its peak in parts of the mountains, some brilliant colors remain to be seen during the next few weeks.

"We're probably a little past the peak," said Ranger James B. (Brent) Pennington with the National Park Service, especially in the higher elevations. "In my opinion, we've seen the best of what we're going to see this year."

However, he added, "There are still some pretty good patches of color visible from the overlooks."

Last weekend was projected to be the peak, of both viewing quality and viewers.

However, Pennington said, "The rain has put a damper on projected visitation." Some rain and wind the previous weekend also probably knocked down some leaves, Pennington said. "It's kind of abrupt this year."

He said that overall, tourism is down very slightly this season from typical volume.

There will still likely be worthwhile viewing through the rest of this month, possibly into early November, in the lower elevations. "The Doughton Park area is still pretty, more so in spots," Pennington said.

Also on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the area between U.S. 21 and the state line is recommended for good leaf viewing. Just across the state line, the Mayberry Mill area in Virginia is another good location.