Vibrant fall foliage continues to spread across the state
Charleston, W.Va. – The highest elevations of Almost Heaven continue to showcase stellar fall foliage conditions. Deep shades of crimson and gold can be found in Tucker, Randolph and Pocahontas counties. Webster and Nicholas counties are nearly halfway to peak conditions, and will be offering lovely views for the next few weeks. Signs of early autumn color can now be seen sprinkled throughout Hardy, Hampshire and Pendleton counties, with peak foliage expected to arrive later in October.
“Thanks to our mountainous landscape, West Virginia’s amazing foliage can be seen for an extended period of time,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Stunning hues can still be found in the highest elevations of the state while lower elevations are beginning to pop with glimpses of the exceptional fall color, with even more to come. There’s still plenty of time to plan your leaf peeping adventure to the Mountain State!”
Best Bets for Fall Foliage
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.
- West Virginia’s highest lake, Spruce Knob Lake is currently experiencing peak conditions. Surround yourself with autumn leaves and tranquility when visiting to kayak, cast a line, or stroll the 1-mile loop around the lake.
- Explore Holly River State Park and discover Upper and Lower Falls nestled within a cove of yellow and orange leaves. A stop on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, these gems can be accessed via Pickens Grade Road or Potato Knob Trail. .
- An autumn oasis awaits at Beartown State Park, home to a unique system of rock formations and overhang cliffs. Journey along the half-mile boardwalk to be surrounded by picturesque fall views.
- Visit nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park to find an Almost Heaven swing in the midst of a picture-perfect backdrop, complete with rolling mountains dotted with changing leaves. Climb the lookout tower to catch a remarkable sunrise or sunset.
- Immerse yourself in astonishing fall trees when staying in a cozy cabin at Watoga State Park. Spend your days hiking gold tinted trails and observe some of the most magnificent dark skies on the East Coast at night.
- Plan a trip to the charming mountain town of Wardensville this weekend to attend the annual Fall Festival. Enjoy the beginning of the season change while browsing craft vendors, artisan gifts, food, games, a parade and more.
- Hampshire County is expected to peak within the next few weeks, so be sure to book your ride on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad to witness some of West Virginia’s most beautiful vistas. Catch sights of Bald Eagles, the famous “Trough” and wonderful foliage along the way.
- Enjoy even more fall views aboard Cass Scenic Railroad. Learn about a time when steam-driven locomotives were a part of everyday life as you travel up a mountain, revealing a kaleidoscope of fall colors.
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, Thrillist, Forbes and more. For more information about West Virginia, visit WVtourism.com and start planning your trip today. To access high-res images of current fall foliage conditions, click here. Photo credit: West Virginia Department of Tourism.
