LINVILLE, N.C. -- Cool days and chilly nights created the perfect recipe for fall in the Carolinas this weekend! 

According to reports near Grandfather Mountain, fall color is nearing peak levels in the highest elevations of the state.

Areas such as Boone and Blowing Rock will likely peak in a week or two.

Fall color is expected to arrive in Central NC by mid to late October.

Meanwhile, dry and pleasant weather will persist for the remainder of the week. 

Temperatures will remain a little cool for the next days or so, but gradual warming is expected by the weekend.  Highs will likely near 80 degrees by Friday and rain chances remain next to zero until later this weekend and early next week when a cold front might bring rain into the region.