Autumn Color Continues to make its Way Across the Mountain State

Fall colors delayed, creating an even longer than expected autumn color season

Charleston, WV  – Fall foliage continues to make its way across West Virginia. Despite a slower start to the season than originally predicted, oak trees across the Mountain State have just begun their beautiful transformation, meaning bright colors are still in store for weeks to come. Lower temperatures are forecasted for the remainder of the week, creating optimal conditions for continued color changes in the state’s higher and mid-level elevations.  

“With stunning foliage still popping up around the state, there’s still time to plan your autumn getaway to Almost Heaven,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Saturday is shaping up to be picture-perfect fall weather and I hope to see folks at some of our many fall festivals happening this weekend including Bridge Day and the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival.”

The Department of Tourism continues to roll out weekly travel-ready itineraries highlighting some of the best destinations and adventures for enjoying vibrant color. This week’s custom-curated road trip features rich heritage, seasonal sips, and epic outdoor recreation. 

Leaf-Peeping Itinerary

🏛️ Learn more about the rich heritage of the glass industry at The Museum of American Glass in Weston.

🍂 Spend the day exploring Stonewall Resort State Park. Take a swing on the golf course, cast a line in the scenic lake, roast s’mores at the lakeside fire pit, or treat yourself to a luxurious spa session. 

📸 While here, be sure to grab a picture-perfect fall selfie on the Almost Heaven swing! 

🧳 Stay overnight in Lewis County.

☕ Fuel for the day ahead with a seasonal drink from Appalachian Coffee House in Mt Nebo.

🪂 Visit Fayetteville on Saturday, October 18, to experience West Virginia’s largest single-day festival – Bridge Day. This annual event attracts thousands of guests from all over the world to watch BASE jumpers take the daring dive over the New River Gorge Bridge. 

🛍️ Stroll the bridge and browse the hundreds of food and shopping vendors!

🍁 Catch more jaw-dropping fall views when hiking a trail, rafting the New River, climbing a peak or biking a mountain.

To celebrate the lasting autumn season, travelers can enjoy 20 percent off a 3-night stay at West Virginia State Parks using code FallmostHeaven, now through December 30, 2025 — excluding Thanksgiving Day.

For photos of current and past seasons: click here. Credit: West Virginia Department of Tourism.

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This post was last updated on October 15, 2025