Fall Foliage Road Trip: W.Va. Route 310

Shifting Hues & Historic Views

Due to a warmer than usual fall, color has been slower to peak in West Virginia this year. The higher elevations in the eastern mountains are past peak, but color is still spreading throughout much of the Mountain State, especially in the north-central region, the panhandles and the southern counties. Startup the car and grab your map, because we are heading out to find fall color, along W.Va. Route 310.

Begin your road trip in the town of Fairmont, which is rich in history and full of iconic Almost Heaven flavor. Be sure to begin this trip hungry, because you are sure to find endless opportunities to grab a bite to eat. If a hearty lunch is on your mind, Muriale’s Italian Kitchen is the place to be—serving homemade Italian recipes passed down over many generations. Not so hungry? Stop by the “Home of the Original Pepperoni Roll,” Country Club Bakery to grab a true West Virginia classic, fresh from the oven.

Before hitting the road, take some time to stroll the streets of Downtown Fairmont and soak up the shifting fall color lining the sidewalks. As you enjoy the fresh fall breeze in this mountain town, warm up with a cozy cup of coffee at Joe N’ Throw. This combination coffee house and pottery studio is a unique must-visit when spending time in downtown Fairmont.

After you have had your fill of mountain town exploration, hop in the car and head southeast on W.Va. Route 310 towards Valley Falls State Park. Arrive and enjoy easy access to the four picturesque falls along the Tygart Valley River that set Valley Falls apart as a favorite destination in the state. Spend some time walking across the large rocky pathways while taking in the serene rush of the nearby falls.

Bring your bike along to explore the 1,145 acres making up Valley Falls State Park. If a little bit of downhill riding is your preference enjoy a quick speedy ride down the Red Cardinal Trail. Or enjoy a more level ride on the 2.1 mile Deer Trail.

Hit the road yet again, heading along W.Va. Route 310 towards Grafton to see more fall foliage lining this country road. A stop in Grafton is never complete without learning about the town’s history as the birthplace of the very first Mother’s Day in 1908. Visit the International Mothers Day Shrine and then head to the Anna Jarvis Museum to explore this iconic history further.

Ready for even more fall color after this iconic route? Be sure to catch next week’s update by signing up to receive our Weekly Foliage Reports.

This post was last updated on February 25, 2022