Visitors encouraged to explore this week’s “best bets” for vibrant foliage views
West Virginia Press Association
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Cooler temperatures and magnificent fall foliage have made their way into the Mountain State, with most areas now experiencing vivid shades of amber and scarlet leaves. Changing Sugar Maple, White Oak and Dogwood trees dot the rolling hills and valleys, with even more brilliant foliage still to come. This year’s fall color is lingering in West Virginia longer than normal, making peak conditions available for an extended period of time.
Mountaineer Country is abundant with leaf-peeping views and is expected to reach its peak this weekend. The Mountain Lakes region is also well on its way to peak color, giving way to lush forests full of brilliant Hickory, Sourwood and Sassafras. The state’s highest elevations are holding onto enchanting autumn color—take a scenic drive this weekend for one more look at remarkable fall views.
Dazzling autumn hues can now be spotted throughout the New River-Greenbrier Valley, just in time for Bridge Day weekend. Visit the New River Gorge National Park this Saturday to take in wonderful foliage while enjoying one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Stroll the bridge lined with vendors, take a Bridge Walk tour or ride the highline zipline.
“Unbelievable fall color can now be seen almost anywhere in Almost Heaven,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Another perfect fall weekend is ahead, so don’t miss the opportunity to catch exceptional fall foliage at one of our best bet locations. Be sure to share your photos with us using #AlmostHeaven!”
Best Bets for Fall Foliage
While jaw-dropping fall color can be found all across the Mountain State, vibrancy varies within each region. Read below for our best bets of where to witness stellar leaf-peeping views this week.
The West Virginia Department of Tourism’s live leaf tracker continues to be updated in real-time, featuring user-generated photos from social media. To access the live leaf map, along with the latest updates, happenings and insider tips around fall in Almost Heaven, visit WVtourism.com/fall. Share your current fall photos using #AlmostHeaven for a chance to be featured.
- Hike throughout the historic Prickett’s Fort State Park and find yourself amongst vibrant foliage. This peaceful spot is ideal for a fall picnic with family and friends.
- Surround yourself with autumn solitude when casting a line at Valley Falls State Park. A stop on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, the rushing water and 10-foot drops are even more spectacular with the backdrop of golden trees.
- One of the state’s most photographed spots, you don’t want to miss Babcock State Park’s iconic grist mill nestled within breathtaking autumn color. While here, be sure to grab a selfie on the Almost Heaven swing!
- After the thrill of watching BASE jumpers dive over the New River Gorge Bridge, take a scenic drive along Fayette Station Road this weekend for beautiful autumn vantage points. Once the normal path of travel, this route winds to the bottom of the gorge, across a narrow bridge and up the other side, boasting stunning vistas along the way.
- For one-of-a-kind fall views, book your ride aboard Cass Scenic Railroad which is expected to reach its peak within the next week. Explore the authentic company town and even stay on-site in a historic company house.
About the West Virginia Department of Tourism
Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia is one of the most scenic states in the United States and home to thousands of acres of parks and public lands, including America’s newest national park, 36 state parks, nine state forests and three rail trails. In addition to its majestic mountains and rolling hills, West Virginia is full of rich historic sites, enchanting art galleries, charming towns and an immense sense of belonging found only in its heaven-like landscapes.
Fall in West Virginia has already received national recognition this season, with mentions in top-tier publications such as National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Reader’s Digest and more.
