Recent rainfall welcomes vibrant autumn color
Charleston, W.Va. – The Mountain State continues to shine with bold autumn color as the West Virginia Department of Tourism releases the second fall foliage report of the season. Recent rainfall has welcomed bursts of gold-dusted and ruby red leaves across West Virginia’s hills and valleys. All areas of the state are displaying signs of foliage color change.
According to the West Virginia Division of Forestry, both Tucker and Pocahontas Counties are still experiencing astonishing peak conditions, with changing hickory and maple trees. Randolph County is more than halfway to peak conditions, boasting colorful views for the Mountain State Forest Festival. Visitors looking for a scenic drive should travel along Route 33 for dazzling autumn hues.
“Thanks to the recent rain we’ve received, there are now glimpses of fall color in most regions of the state,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Bring your family and friends and take advantage of the beautiful weather that is expected this weekend while leaf-peeping in the Mountain State. Be sure to share your fall adventures with use on social media using #AlmostHeaven.”
Best Bets for Fall Foliage
The highest elevations of the state continue to offer some of the best bets for stunning foliage views. Fiery oranges and bright yellows can be found within the Blackwater Canyon and mountains of Pocahontas County. Signs of autumn can also be seen across the town of Elkins. Every travel region in West Virginia is displaying varying degrees of fall foliage.
The West Virginia Department of Tourism’s live leaf tracker will 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.
- Stroll through the town of Elkins this weekend and catch amber and cherry-colored trees lining the streets—the perfect backdrop for the Mountain State Forest Festival. Abundant with live musical acts, food vendors, crafts, hands-on demonstrations, parades and more, this event celebrates the magic of fall in West Virginia.
- Walk the moss-lined path through the towering spruce trees at Gaudineer Knob & Scenic area to feel like you’ve entered an enchanted forest. The approximately 0.5-mile loop will lead you to a fantastic overlook of the forested mountains.
- For those up for a challenge, hike the High Falls Trail for 10+ miles and be rewarded with the beautiful High Falls of the Cheat. A stop on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, these cascades are especially impressive when dressed in autumn color.
- For a unique hike, visit Audra State Park and trek Alum Creek and Cave Trail. Over the next two weeks, the path that leads guests under the impressive cliffside boardwalk along the rushing Middle Fork River will provide ideal leaf-peeping vantage points along the way.
- Find yourself immersed in an autumn oasis when visiting Blackwater Falls State Park. Feel the mist of the rushing water while being surrounded by jaw-dropping shades of copper and ginger tinted trees. Don’t miss grabbing a selfie on the Almost Heaven swing.
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.
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.
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