Where to See Jaw-Dropping Fall Foliage Right Now in West Virginia – Week of 10/16/24
Cooler temperatures are now settling into the lower elevations of Almost Heaven – paving the way for vivid shades of amber and scarlet to bloom. Changing Sugar Maple, White Oak and Dogwood trees add dots of color to the rolling hills and valleys, with even more brilliant foliage still to come later this month.
From now through the next couple of weeks, make your way to these featured destinations for a jaw-dropping leaf-peeping experience.
Valley Falls State Park
For sights of endless fall foliage in every direction you turn, head to Fairmont and explore Valley Falls State Park in Marion County. Giant rock faces and formations create the 10-foot Valley Falls – where water rushes through several gaps varying in size. For leaf peepers and waterfall wanderers alike, there is no better combination than the sound of crashing whitewater and the sight of autumn leaves. Be sure to check into Valley Falls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail and boost your chances of winning a waterfall-themed prize!
Babcock State Park
Babcock State Park is one of the most photographed destinations in Almost Heaven – especially when the leaves are turning. Enjoy the vibrant yellows, oranges and reds while also checking into Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. A stone pathway near the scenic Almost Heaven Swing will lead you to the cascades. Babcock State Park also offers 28 cabins for vacation rentals if you wish to extend your leaf-peeping adventure.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
One of America’s newest national parks, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, has something for everyone this fall. More than 70,000 acres boast some of West Virginia’s best fall foliage surrounding the 876-foot-tall New River Gorge Bridge. Be sure to attend the iconic Bridge Day on Saturday, Oct. 19. Every year on the third Saturday of October in Fayetteville, the New River Gorge Bridge closes and opens to the public to watch professional base jumpers leap from the edge of the bridge – parachuting toward a target by the New River. There will be several vendors, shops and games set up along Route 19 for you to grab a bite or shop for Bridge Day souvenirs.
To learn more about Bridge Day, click here.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in Pocahontas County is now showing traces of vibrant fall colors, which are expected to peak next week. Take a two or four-hour scenic train ride on a steam-driven locomotive that transports you back in time. Explore the authentic company town, browse the Cass Company Store, and even stay on-site in a historic company house.
Prickett’s Fort State Park
Hike throughout the historic, 188-acre Prickett’s Fort State Park and find yourself amongs vibrant foliage. This peaceful spot is ideal for a fall picnic with family and friends. This state park is just north of Fairmont near the confluence of Prickett’s Creek and the Monongahela River – boasting endless scenery year-round. A great spot to go leaf peeping is at the birding observation deck, which is located at the Mon River Trail trailhead.
With October now at the halfway point, there is no better time to begin your leaf-peeping adventure. Sign up for our weekly newsletter, and don’t miss out on our West Virginia fall foliage updates!
Send Me UpdatesBeauty Never Leaves #AlmostHeaven
This post was last updated on October 16, 2024