West Virginia Celebrates First Signs of Fall Color with Leaf-Peeping Itinerary

Magnificent color expected following above-average summer rainfalls

Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Tourism celebrates the first signs of fall color making its way into the Mountain State with the release of this year’s first fall foliage itinerary. Thanks to above-average rainfall this summer, West Virginia’s higher elevations have already welcomed bursts of amber, with the official start of autumn just around the corner.

“I’m thrilled to see that spectacular autumn color is starting to pop in the highest elevations of the state,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Leave the stress of trip planning behind and let our fall itineraries be your guide to experiencing one-of-a-kind adventure surrounded by stunning foliage. We’re excited for what is expected to be the best fall in decades.”

This scenic roadmap is the first travel-ready itinerary of the season, featuring fall flavor, autumn adventure, breathtaking views and a must-see museum stop — all timed perfectly to catch the earliest golden hues. According to the West Virginia Department of Forestry, the Mountain State’s highest elevations are expected to reach peak conditions over the next two weeks — the brightest colors lying within Tucker, Randolph and Upshur counties. 

Follow West Virginia Tourism on Instagram for this week’s fall foliage journey, and join the Broadcast Channel to unlock special offers and insider tips curated exclusively for Broadcast Channel members only! To join, click “Fall Updates from Almost Heaven” on the @WVtourism Instagram bio.

Leaf-Peeping Itinerary

Each week, the Department of Tourism will share a curated itinerary showcasing the best spots to experience peak color across the state. For those planning a trip later in the season, dozens of additional itinerary ideas can be found at wvtourism.com/fall.

     🍁 A stop at Blackwater Falls State Park is a must-do on any fall trip to West Virginia. Known for its rushing amber waters surrounded by fiery red leaves, this spot is one of the most photographed in the entire state. 

     🚂 Depart for Elkins for an Almost Heaven scenic train ride aboard the New Tygart Flyer. Travel through an “S” curve tunnel, cross a towering bridge and take in miles of mountains dressed in autumn hues.

     🛤️ Learn more about the region’s rich railroad heritage at the West Virginia Railroad Museum. 

     🛍️ Browse the charming streets dotted with restaurants, breweries, art galleries and vintage shops.

     🧳 Stay overnight at one of the many lodging options in Randolph County. 

     ☕ Fuel your day with a seasonal sip from The Crossing Coffee Bar at Delmonte Market. 

     🚗 Depart for Buckhannon and catch jaw-dropping foliage along the way. 

     🍴Enjoy a mouth-watering lunch featuring local, seasonal ingredients at Fish Hawk Acres.

     🥾Stop by Audra State Park and hike Alum Cave Trail, known for the unique boardwalk under rockcliff overhangs.

The department’s live leaf tracker has officially launched and will be updated in real time, offering a glimpse of current conditions. For a chance to be featured on the live leaf map and West Virginia Tourism’s social media channels, share your photos using #AlmostHeaven. To keep tabs on all things autumn in West Virginia, visit wvtourism.com/fall. 

Image gallery: linked here. Photo credit: West Virginia Department of Tourism.

This post was last updated on September 17, 2025