West Virginia Tourism Office Releases Third Fall Foliage Report and Featured Country Road Trip of 2019
Travelers encouraged to plan trips in advance to see West Virginia’s beautiful fall color
CHARLESTON, WV (Oct. 23, 2019) — Beautiful fall colors continue to spread through West Virginia this week as the Mountain State enters the second half of its foliage season.
To help leaf peepers and tourists visiting the state plan their country road trips, the West Virginia Tourism Office released its third fall foliage report of the 2019 season today, highlighting Interstate 68. This series of foliage reports, prepared in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Forestry, helps travelers plan fall adventures based on peak foliage times around the state.
“Fall is in full swing, and there is plenty of time left to experience West Virginia’s stunning fall color and array of autumn events and activities,” West Virginia Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby said. “This year, we’re making it easier for visitors to know which route to travel and have even packaged up the best of fall into a free Fall Pocket Passport.”
Before you set out on your autumn travels across Almost Heaven, be sure to order this year’s Fall Pocket Passport. The mini seasonal guide features all of the must see and do activities and includes helpful travel tips and a leaf identification guide. To request a free copy, visit www.WVtourism.com/fall.
Fall Foliage Update
Fall colors can be seen statewide in West Virginia. While foliage is past peak at higher elevations, southern counties and lower elevations are still a few weeks away from peak. The best fall color in the state can be seen in Mountaineer Country counties in the northern-central part of the state.
Featured Country Road: Interstate 68 through Coopers Rock State Forest
Red, yellows and some orange fall colors are peaking along Interstate 68, making this weekend a perfect time for a scenic drive through Coopers Rock State Forest, from Morgantown to Bruceton Mills. At about 30 miles, this short drive would make for a relaxing early morning drive. Whether you come from Morgantown or Bruceton Mills, take some time for a hike in Coopers Rock State Forest. To enjoy breathtaking views of the Cheat River canyon, hike on the Ravens Rock Trail to the popular Ravens Rock overlook or on the Roadside Trail to Coopers Rock overlook. One of the most photographed places in West Virginia, the overlook at Coopers Rock during fall is a can’t miss.
After some time exploring the forest, you can extend your road trip by returning to Morgantown where a weekend full of incredible dining, sports and local shopping awaits. During your visit, explore the colors by bike or by hike along the Mon River Rail-Trail or take a scenic stroll through the West Virginia Botanic Garden.
From Morgantown, continue along U.S. 119 south to Grafton, where you can stop by stunning Valley Falls State Park for more spectacular fall color views.
As you enjoy your country road trip this weekend, post and share your favorite fall photos and road trip memories using #AlmostHeaven. For more fall travel inspiration and to request a 2019 Fall Pocket Passport, visit www.WVtourism.com/fall.
About West Virginia Tourism Office
The West Virginia Tourism Office, an agency of the West Virginia Department of Commerce, aims to promote West Virginia as a leading four-season travel destination and top state in which to live, work and retire.
Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia is one of the most scenic states in the nation and is home to the beautiful Monongahela National Forest, six national parks, and 45 state parks and forests. 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.
For more information about West Virginia and to plan your trip, visit www.WVtourism.com.
This post was last updated on October 24, 2019