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Elakala Falls in West Virginia (Image by Kris Maria)
No doubt fall is incredible in the Northeast, but the vibrant colors in West Virginia definitely give New England a run for its money! With charming mountain towns, rugged landscapes, and uncrowded hiking trails, West Virginia is a go-to fall travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
But if you’re planning to soak in the scenery there, timing is important. With higher elevations (above 3,500 feet) throughout the state, the leaves begin changing as soon as late September/early October. Trees at mid to lower elevations gradually follow suit, with peak foliage hitting sometime near mid to late October. Be sure to check the West Virginia Tourism live fall foliage map to help you plan the perfect adventure!
Here are a few of the best spots to catch the fall colors in West Virginia:
Bear Rocks Preserve (Image by Kris Maria)
Dolly Sods Wilderness Area
An outdoor lovers’ dream, Dolly Sods is the highest plateau east of the Mississippi River. It’s known for its remarkable variation in ecosystems and plant life reminiscent of what grows in eastern Canada. In the fall, the landscape puts on a magnificent display of reds, oranges and yellow. While there are plenty of trails throughout Dolly Sods, Blackbird Knob Trail, Red Creek Trail, and Lions Head Rock are some great day hike options. I also highly recommend catching a sunrise at Bear Rocks Preserve (no hiking required)!
Spruce Knob (Image by Kris Maria)
Seneca Rocks & Spruce Knob
You’ll definitely want to add Seneca Rocks Trail to your fall hiking itinerary. Even if you don’t hike to the top, the 900-foot jutting rock formation adorned with fall colors is a must-see. Nearby, you’ll find the Whispering Spruce Trail & Spruce Knob — the highest point in the state at 4,863 feet. Climb up the observation tower for sweeping fall views!
Tea Creek in Pocahontas County (Image by Malachi Jacobs)
Pocahontas County
This quiet area of West Virginia offers several stunning and fairly accessible State Parks to enjoy fall foliage. A few favorites for gentle hikes (with big rewards) are Seneca State Forest, Beartown and Watoga. For something a little more relaxed, take in the fall colors by train along the Cass Scenic Railroad. Finally, I have to recommend the Bog Trail in Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. With the elevation and acidic soil, cranberries and other unique plants can actually grow here. In the fall, the landscape turns the most gorgeous vibrant red!
Blackwater Falls (Image by Kris Maria)
Blackwater Falls State Park
Located in the Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls State Park is home to many of the most photographed spots in West Virginia … including the 57-foot Blackwater Falls! This park boasts some great family friendly hikes and viewpoints to experience fall colors like the 0.4-mile overlook trail (or the 0.2-mile handicap accessible trail) to Blackwater Falls, the 0.5 mile out-and-back trail to Elakala Falls, and the 0.8 mile out-and-back trail to Lindy Point Observation deck.
Right outside the park are the charming Appalachian Mountain towns of Davis and Thomas, where you’ll find plenty of great restaurants and bars to cozy up in.
Canaan Valley (Image by Kris Maria)
Canaan Valley
The most vibrant sea of fall colors I’ve ever laid eyes on was at Canaan Valley State Park. I opted for the scenic chair lift ride, and while I definitely needed a blanket on a cool fall day, it was such a great experience! There are also plenty of hiking trails (e.g., Table Rock) if you prefer a more active adventure. The Canaan Valley Lodge is a great place to spend the night, as it’s centrally located to many of the places mentioned here!
New River Gorge (Image by Gestalt Imagery)
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
What better place to take in the fall colors than America’s newest National Park!? This park offers everything from scenic drives to white water rafting, to rock climbing, so there’s truly something for everyone! Whatever you do, don’t miss seeing the New River Gorge Bridge. One of the tallest bridges in the U.S., it is truly a spectacle, especially when it’s surrounded by fall colors. There are many great viewpoint of the bridge, including the Long Point and Endless Wall Trails (for the hikers) and Canyon Rim Visitors Center. Real thrill seekers can walk the catwalk under the bridge!
As always, remember to follow all principles of Leave No Trace when exploring outdoors. Let’s help preserve these natural places for generations to come. Happy fall exploring!
Kris Maria is a hiking and travel blogger based in the Washington, D.C., area. Visit her website, krismariawanders.com, for more East Coast adventure ideas
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