Asheville, nestled among the mountains, is relatively hot in the summer and cool in the winter, although not extreme. Winters are mild, with the coldest months being January and February, with average lows in the upper 20s, and highs in the upper 40s. The warmest month is July, with highs in the mid-80s, and lows in the mid-60s. Visitors who are planning to take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities in and around Asheville should plan accordingly.

    Flocks of leaf-watchers are known to migrate to Asheville in the Fall months to view the annual turning of the foliage. Dogwood trees and oaks are among the featured attractions. The season runs from September through November, with trees in the upper elevations turning earlier than those in lower elevations.

    Each year the Southern Highland Craft Guilds Fair takes place in July and October.  Over two hundred guild members participate and sell their wares. Live musical performances highlight the traditional folk music of the area, including bluegrass and americana. Think of the Cold Mountain soundtrack; the movie was set in the area. Craft educators put on demonstrations of traditional crafting techniques like dyeing and basket weaving.