West Virginia's Radiant Fall Colors: 2022's Must-See Foliage Spots

Nestled in the heart of Appalachia, West Virginia transforms into a vibrant masterpiece each fall, painting its forests, hills, and valleys with an astonishing array of colors. This seasonal spectacle is a testament to the state's diverse ecosystems and offers travelers a myriad of opportunities to witness nature at its most spectacular.

With over 75% of the state draped in hardwood forests, West Virginia's fall colors are nothing short of breathtaking. The varied landscape, including mountains, rivers, and expansive plateaus, ensures that the show unfolds gradually, stretching the foliage season from late September to mid-November.

Peak Fall Foliage Locations

Timing is crucial when chasing the fall colors in West Virginia. Whether you're a hiker eager to explore the state's many trails or a scenic drive enthusiast, knowing the peak times will help you make the most of your visit.

Typically, the southern zones begin to change colors during the last week of September, with the peak period lasting until the first week of October. Central West Virginia follows suit, peaking around mid-October, while the northern regions hit their stride in late October and early November.

Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest, spanning nearly one million acres, is a treasure trove of fall colors. With elevations ranging from 800 to 4,863 feet, the forest offers a diverse palette of reds, oranges, and golds throughout the season. The Dolly Sods Wilderness, an enchanting high-elevation bog, is particularly stunning in the fall.

The North Fork Mountain Trail, an iconic section of the longer Potomac Heritage Trail, delivers stunning vistas of the Canaan Valley and Laurel Mountain. TheObservable Point Overlook, with its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, is another must-visit spot for a perfect selfie with the fall foliage.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Home to the longest arch sandstone bridge in the world, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve showcases its beauty in fall with a kaleidoscope of colors reflected in the river. The world-renowned Kaymoor Miners Trail, winding through old coal mining sites, transforms into a vibrant corridor of fall colors.

To capture the best fall colors, hike the Diamond Point Overlook Trail, offering unparalleled views of the New River, the New River Gorge Bridge, and the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, drive the New River Gorge Scenic Drive, stopping at various overlooks and trailheads to explore the park's autumn splendor.

Fall Foliage Drives and Towns

West Virginia's scenic byways and idyllic towns provide a charming backdrop to your fall colors road trip. From quaint villages to historic landmarks, these destinations allow you to experience the season's beauty up close.

Blackwater Falls State Park, home to the iconic 83-foot-tall cascade, transforms into a photographer's paradise in the fall. The highlighted route, the Blackwater Falls Loop, takes you through thick forests and rolling farmlands, presenting a fleeting glimpse of the fall colors as they dance in the autumn sunlight.

The Highland Scenic Highway

This winding, 44-mile route through the Monongahela National Forest was named by USA Today as one of the "10 Best scenic drives in the U.S." The highway passes through stunning landscapes, including rhododendron tunnels, majestic overlooks, and the charming town of Seneca Rocks, where you can watch rock climbers scale the vertical sandstone cliffs.

Along the way, stop at various overlooks, such as Spruce Knob, the highest point in the state, and the stunning Bobcat flea Overlook, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Allegheny Mountains. Don't miss the chance to hike the short trail to Helton's Falls, where the cascade creates a brilliant display of fall colors in the surrounding foliage.

Davis and Thomas, West Virginia

Nestled in the heart of the Potomac Highlands, these charming towns serve as the gateway to the Dolly Sods Wilderness and the Monongahela National Forest. Both towns offer a delightful mix of art galleries, independent shops, and local eateries, providing a perfect contrast to the rugged, natural beauty surrounding them.

The annual "Davis and Elkins Foliage Festival" takes place during the peak fall colors season. This community celebration features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a parade, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of fall while connecting with the local culture.

As fall in West Virginia comes to a close, don't miss your chance to witness the captivating, final act: the bald cypress trees lining stretches of the Blackwater River turning a brilliant crimson, painting a poignant farewell to the season. Make plans now to witness this magical epilogue, and start looking forward to the next cycle of renewal and beauty that West Virginia's wildlife and landscapes offer year-round.