Fall Foliage Road Trip: U.S. 250 to W.Va. 88

Northern Panhandle Must-Visits

With later than normal peak color arriving in the Mountain State, beautiful fall foliage remains in several parts of West Virginia in early November. The higher elevations in the eastern mountains are past peak, but colorful foliage can still be found throughout the other eight travel regions. Much of the state is expected to peak over the next week or two, so this weekend may be one of your last chances to see peak color before the leaves drop.

Begin your road trip in Moundsville, an Ohio River town packed with history and down-home comfort. Start your day of adventure with a sweet treat at Quality Bake Shoppe, reminiscent of a classic corner bakery with tasty confections. Give their new Pecan Tarts a try or opt for an Apple Fritter for the road. After you have had your fill, make a quick stop at Grand Vue Park to savor a fan-favorite fall view.

Offering more than scenic views Grand Vue Park is also home to non-stop adventure. Opt for the 2-hour Zip Line Canopy Tour to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant fall foliage of the treetops or dip your toe in the water with a quick 2,100 foot Zip Line Ride. Round out your visit with a stop by the new Adventure Park for a challenging obstacle course experience.

Keep the good times rolling and begin heading East on U.S. Route 250 to find even more beautiful color in Marshall County, before connecting to W.Va. 88 North towards Wheeling. In Wheeling, head straight for Centre Market to explore an eclectic mix of shops, dating back to 1853. Get a head start on your holiday shopping list as your browse the local galleries and boutiques before grabbing lunch. Coleman’s Fish Market is a must-visit spot for any new visitor to Wheeling, serving up what some consider to be the country’s best fish sandwich.

After you have shopped until you drop, begin the quick 15-minute drive to Oglebay Resort & Conference Center. This year-round destination is situated on 1,700 scenic acres, dotted with the shifting colors of fall foliage. At Oglebay Resort find more than a cozy place to rest your head—try a horseback riding lesson, enjoy a serene stop at The West Spa or make a special visit to The Good Zoo.

Ready for even more fall color after you complete this scenic route? Ensure you catch the last of this late fall color by signing up for Weekly Foliage Reports and staying in the know.

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This post was last updated on February 25, 2022