A Fall Getaway to Western North Carolina: Our Favorite Escape from St. Augustine

by Kevin Howard

Every fall, my wife and I pack up our car, load in our two golden retrievers, and head north toward the mountains. It’s become a tradition—a breath of crisp, pine-scented air after a long summer on Florida’s coast. Western North Carolina (WNC) is our go-to getaway for good reason: it’s dog-friendly, beautifully scenic, and surprisingly easy to reach from St. Augustine. Leave early, and you’ll be surrounded by mountain views in about seven hours.

Why Western North Carolina?

For us, it’s the perfect blend of nature, charm, and adventure. After months of coastal humidity, the cool mountain air feels refreshing, and every winding road seems to lead to a new view—or a great local brewery. WNC has that small-town warmth and big-outdoor energy that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment. THe drive might seem long, but it really isn't that bad. Once you arrive in WNC, you'll know it was worth it.

Where We Stay: Waynesville or Bryson City

While Asheville is always on our list for a day trip, we prefer to stay in Waynesville or Bryson City.

Waynesville has that quintessential mountain-town feel—walkable streets lined with local shops, coffee spots, and breweries. It’s also a great home base for hiking in Pisgah National Forest, where the trails are dog-friendly and range from easy waterfall walks to challenging climbs with panoramic views.

Bryson City, on the other hand, sits closer to the Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s quieter, with riverside cabins and endless access to the outdoors. From white-water rafting on the Nantahala to scenic train rides through the Smokies, it’s a place that offers a little of everything.

Cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway

One of the highlights of any trip to Western North Carolina is taking the Blue Ridge Parkway—our preferred route from Asheville to Waynesville or Bryson City. Sure, it adds a little extra time to the drive, but the views are absolutely worth it.

The Parkway winds through some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the eastern United States, with long stretches of uninterrupted forest, sweeping overlooks, and trailheads that invite spontaneous stops. We usually pack a picnic, find one of the many scenic pull-offs, and post up for a bit—letting the dogs stretch their legs while we take in the view.

It’s not just a drive; it’s an experience. Every few miles feels like a new postcard—rolling ridgelines, fading light through the trees, and that calm sense that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

A Day in Asheville

No trip north is complete without a day in Asheville. We’ll stroll through the downtown streets with the dogs, stop at pet-friendly patios for lunch, and usually end up at one of the area’s craft breweries—of which there are plenty. Wicked Weed, Burial Beer Co., and Sierra Nevada’s Mills River location are some of our favorites. If we’re feeling more relaxed, we’ll spend the day at The Biltmore Estate, exploring the gardens and trails with our dogs that wind through its stunning property.

When to Go

Fall in Western North Carolina is nothing short of spectacular. The mountains turn into a patchwork of gold, red, and orange—especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway. But summer is a fantastic time to visit too. While it’s hot and humid in Northeast Florida, the mountain air stays cool and comfortable. You can hike, paddle, and enjoy the outdoors without breaking a sweat.

Why It’s the Perfect Escape from Florida

For us, this trip is about balance—trading salty air for mountain mist, beach walks for forest trails, and busy days for slower moments. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to fly across the country to find peace and adventure. Just a decent drive from St. Augustine, Western North Carolina offers both.

Whether you’re chasing fall colors, escaping the summer heat, or just craving a change of scenery, WNC has something for everyone—especially if your family includes four-legged members. It’s our favorite tradition, and I have a feeling it might become yours too.