The best ways to go leaf peeping in West Virginia

This fall, immerse yourself in the dazzling colors of the Mountain State’s fall foliage. See everything from the brilliant yellows of beech, sweet birch and black locust trees, the crimson of scarlet oak and sumac trees to the beautiful mixed colors of witch hazel, white oak and hornbeam trees. Each tree will leave you in awe of their beautiful colors. Fill your outdoor recreational activities and unique stays with Almost Heaven’s take on picture-perfect fall foliages.

Potomac Highlands

This region is a mecca for spots with incredible fall beauty. It’s home to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park and the Monongahela National Forest, which all boast stunning fall foliage. But that’s not all if you’re looking for some more jaw-dropping views this fall visit the overlooks at Pase Point, Lindy Point, Table Rock, old Olsen Fire Tower or catch the changing colors of the beautiful blueberry bushes at Dolly Sods. The leaves in the Potomac Highlands usually start to change around Late September and early October so start charging your camera now so you can get that perfect picture.

New River – Greenbrier Valley

The New River – Greenbrier Valley region is always beautiful, and fall is no exception. Here you can surround yourself with beautiful leaves and visit iconic spots at every corner. The New River Gorge Bridge is the perfect backdrop to any photo or head to Grandview, which always provides stunning views. Visit Hawks Nest State Park and ride the aerial tramway for a close-up of the leaves and go up to the parks scenic overlook for a bird’s eye view of the New River Gorge National River. Babcock State Park is one of the most iconic fall spots thanks to its changing leaves and the Glade Creek Grist Mill. Want to visit this region this autumn? The leaves in this region usually tend to change around mid and late October.

Metro Valley

The leaves in this region tend to change around late October and the colors never disappoint. Take a quick walk along the Carriage Trail for stunning view of Charleston and its leaves or stop by Kanawha State Forest, a serene area perfect for hikers, bikers and everyone else to get their leaf fix. Visit Huntington’s charming Ritter Park where you can stroll through the leaves and Beech Fork State Park in Barboursville is a great place to let out your inner child and jump in a pile of brilliant colored leaves.

Hatfield-McCoy Mountains

Explore true West Virginia scenery in the Hatfield-McCoy Mountains. The combination of beautiful craggy mountains and gorgeous leaves make this region a sight to behold. Head to Chief Logan State Park or Cabwaylingo State Forest for some leaf peeping. Or have a more unique leaf peeping experience by hitting the Hatfield-McCoy Trails by ATV, UTV or dirt bike and riding through the gorgeous leaves that surround you. The leaves in this area usually turn around late October, leaving you with plenty of time to plan your trip.

Eastern Panhandle

Visit this region in late October to bask in its fall foliage. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is the perfect backdrop to autumn with its picturesque streets, exhibits, museums and hiking trails. You can also explore all 6,000 acres of Cacapon Resort State Park, which has a cozy lodge that’s perfect for taking in the scenery and sipping hot apple cider.

Mid-Ohio Valley

The Mid-Ohio Valley is full of amazing spots to experience West Virginia’s fall foliage. From Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park to North Bend State Park both parks will leave you in awe of the regions scenic beauty. You can also hike, bike or horseback ride the North Bend Rail Trail, which stretches 72-miles through 13 tunnels, rural countryside and several historic sites – the perfect fall experience.  Be on the lookout for the leaves in this area to turn around mid-October.

Mountaineer Country

Mountaineer Country is home to one of the state’s most iconic leaf peeping spots, Coopers Rock State Forest. At Coopers Rock State Forests main overlook, you can view fall color as far as the eye can see. Or hike the Ravens Rock trail for about 1.5 miles to another overlook with amazing views and where you can snap some vibrant panoramic photos. Tygart Lake State Park, Valley Falls State Park and Prickett’s Fort State Park are all great leaf peeping spots as well. The leaves in this area tend to change around mid-October – the perfect time to get in the fall spirit.

Mountain Lakes

Explore this region and visit beautiful Stonewall Resort. This resort is situated within Stonewall Resort State Park and is surrounded by rolling mountains and tranquil lake waters. Stroll the lakes shoreline or lounge on the lakeside patio and take in the beauty of the fall foliage around you. Or head to Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park. This beautiful park located on the rim of the Gauley River Canyon is the perfect backdrop to any photo especially in the fall. This region’s gorgeous leaves change around early to mid-October, and we can’t wait to see their brilliant colors.

Northern Panhandle

Visit this stunning area in early October for an array of gorgeous colored leaves. Stroll the gorgeous property of Oglebay Resort with its manicure grounds, bask in the stunning views of fall foliage at Grand Vue Park or walk along the Wheeling Heritage Trails and see just how beautiful Wheeling is in the fall. Each spot will allow you to peep different types and colors of dazzling leaves.

This post was last updated on August 15, 2023