Take Your Leaf Peeping Escape to New Heights in West Virginia

This report was generated in partnership with West Virginia Section of Tourism.

No matter whether you are desperately clinging on to the very last glimmer of summer season or eagerly counting down to the 1st day of drop, one thing’s for certain—autumn is coming. It’s time to get your gear, pack your luggage, and load up the vehicle for that leaf peeping road excursion you’ve been conversing about.

The crisp autumn air starts off operating its magic in late September, transforming summer’s lush canopies into sepia-tinted masterpieces across the country. But Mom Nature saves one of her most breathtaking seasonal performances for West Virginia, the place issues are (fairly pretty much) taken to new heights.

The Mountain Condition is, not shockingly, blessed with an amazing range of elevation. This prosperous and varied topography lets the drop foliage to little by little expose alone in waves for months on close. Relying on what part of Nearly Heaven you are checking out, you could both be a few hundred or a number of thousand feet earlier mentioned sea degree, with absolutely nothing but amazing vistas and jaw-dropping panoramas as considerably as the eye can see. Rely on us…it’s a display you will not want to skip.

Beech and birch trees erupt in amazing explosions of gold. Scarlet oak and sumac trees grow to be blanketed in crimson. And some species like witch hazel, hornbeam, and white oak trees dish out technicolored palettes that merge shades of copper, ochre, and burnt sienna.

So no matter if you are gazing out from a mountain ignore, wandering the winding trails, or taking pleasure in the sights through a statewide road excursion, there’s an total season of leaf peeping just ready to be found out this drop in West Virginia. Never skip the probability to see the majestic surroundings for yourself—here’s how to plan an unforgettable leaf peeping journey in Nearly Heaven.

When to Go

The cooler temperatures normally begin hitting West Virginia’s greater elevations in late September. Areas like the Potomac Highlands grow to be painted in bursts of burgundy, chestnut, and marigold. As the vivid hues begin washing in excess of the treetops, in-the-know people head to iconic websites like Snowshoe Mountain and Canaan Valley Vacation resort Condition Park to capture an early glimpse. Be sure to check out Monongahela Countrywide Forest. The nationwide recreation location contains Seneca Rocks (paradise for rock climbers) and Spruce Knob, West Virginia’s maximum peak, clocking in at four,863 feet earlier mentioned sea degree.

Soon immediately after, the flood of drop colours makes its way to Mountaineer State and the Greenbrier Valley, dazzling onlookers in Historic Lewisburg and Stonewall Vacation resort Condition Park. By late-Oct, the Northern Panhandle is normally in complete swing. The region’s Tomlinson Run Condition Park converts into a spellbinding autumnal oasis, drawing hikers and campers in look for of the modifying leaves. It’s also the perfect time to check out the Mid-Ohio Valley, flaunting hot spots like Blennerhassett Island Historic Condition Park and the North Bend Rail Trail.

Towards the close of the thirty day period, the dazzling screen prepares for its last act. This is when you will want to take a look at regions like the Japanese Panhandle, Metro Valley, and New River-Greenbrier Valley. You can also choose to witness Mom Nature’s mesmerizing exhibition at other well known websites close by, like Babcock Condition Park and Hawks Nest Condition Park.

Can not-Miss Leaf Peeping Places

Babcock Condition Park: Babcock Condition Park is a lover most loved all calendar year lengthy, but it is a true showstopper in the drop. Found in Clifftop, the beloved park features four,127 acres of putting surroundings that lures daredevils of all disciplines, from mountain bikers to whitewater rafters. It also transpires to be one of the most photographed spots in the total condition, many thanks to its iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill (earlier mentioned). The entirely useful framework is a reproduction of the unique Cooper’s Mill, which formerly operated on the grounds. The rustic campsite is an idyllic haven to use as a basecamp through your check out, full with 28 electrical hook-up websites, 24 non-electric powered websites, and entirely stocked cabins obtainable to visitors.

Blackwater Falls Condition Park: Never be misled by the name…Blackwater Falls will come alive in the drop with one of the most vivid foliage shows in the condition. Tucked away in the Potomac Highlands and surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls essentially attracts its identify from the amber-colored waters that rush from its namesake 62-foot cascade, darkened by the tannic acid released from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The park presents plenty of image-perfect times, from the waterfall viewing platforms to Pendleton Issue Forget about and Lindy Issue Forget about, which peers across the Blackwater River Canyon. Table Rock is a different just cannot-skip spot in just the park. The famed rock climbing web-site presents breathtaking mountain vistas and can be found towards the considerably western close of Canaan Loop Highway. There are also 75 primitive campsites strung along the 18-mile road, which make for a magical getaway.

Dolly Sods Wilderness: Component of the Countrywide Wilderness Preservation Method, Dolly Sods Wilderness sprawls across a lot more than 17,000 acres in just the Monongahela Countrywide Forest. Listed here, elevations range from 2,500 to in excess of four,700 feet, lending to drastic demonstrations of drop foliage that protect the spectrum from butterscotch to prosperous mahogany. Fishing, hunting, and camping are all preferred things to do at Dolly Sods, but the very best leaf peeping ordeals exist along its 47 miles of trails, most of which stick to weathered railroad grades and old logging pathways. In the forties, the military services utilized this region for Globe War II maneuvers and mountain instruction. While the location has been swept, hikers are inspired to remain on designated paths as there may perhaps nonetheless be are living mortar shells.

Coopers Rock Condition Forest: Question any West Virginian to rattle off their most loved spots to look at the autumn leaves improve, and odds are Coopers Rock Condition Forest will rank higher up on their list. Found in Bruceton Mills, this iconic forest handles a lot more than 12,700 acres—so there’s no shortage of foliage to see. The most important ignore gives way to sweeping sights of the Cheat River Gorge that stretch on for miles and miles. Immerse on your own in the motion by checking out the forest’s 50-plus miles of zigzagging hiking and biking trails. There is also a six-acre, trout-stuffed pond on the north facet of the forest, providing a tranquil retreat to recognize the autumn surroundings in all its glory.

Harpers Ferry Countrywide Historic Park: If you are on the hunt for an Instagram-deserving, autumn-themed escape, appear no further than Harpers Ferry. This cozy small city serves up all the quintessential drop vibes you can visualize. The historic community sits at the convergence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. It’s chock-complete of waterfront sights, stunning brick properties, and charming storefronts, eating places, and museums. It’s the perfect location to stroll the tranquil tree-lined streets with a hot apple cider in hand. Visitors can also trek to serene overlooks, hike along skirmish strains from the Civil War, or be a part of a ranger-guided wilderness tour. A check out to Harpers Ferry feels like you are turning again the arms of time to a picturesque, bygone period.

Where to Keep to Just take Advantage of Tumble Foliage

Blackwater Falls Condition Park: Tucked away in the mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls Condition Park presents an comprehensive range of out of doors excursions for people. The park was formally recognized in the 1930s, but the location experienced been attracting journey lovers considering the fact that the early 1800s. Its critical characteristics involve the namesake Blackwater Falls, as perfectly as Elakala Falls, Lindy Issue, and Pendleton Issue Forget about. In the park, overnight visitors can immerse by themselves in character by getting benefit of their range of lodging alternatives. The park has 39 entirely furnished cabins, a sixty five-device tent and trailer campground, a spacious fifty four-space mountain lodge, and a Tentrr campsite with additional standalone canvas system tents.

Lafayette Flats: Setting up to take a look at the New River Gorge? Come across your home away from home at Lafayette Flats. Found in charming Fayetteville, this boutique property blends historic appeal with all the contemporary-day comforts you’d hope. The grand brick setting up features 4 open up and ethereal flats for people to choose from: the Nuttall, Corten, Quinnimont, and Eddy. Right after examining in, shell out the day discovering area hidden gems downtown or operating up a sweat in New River Gorge Countrywide Park and Protect. Comfortable, clear, and conveniently located—what a lot more could you question for?

Resort Morgan: Nestled deep in the heart of Mountaineer State, Morgantown is a quaint city recognised for its fast escalating multicultural heritage. House to West Virginia University, the spot has an normally-on energy, many thanks to its youthful collegiate population (which also will come with a frenetic nightlife scene, exceptional eating places, and an eclectic arts community). Listed here, people will discover the polished Resort Morgan, a Wyndham Resort. Smooth and sophisticated, this refurbished lodge is correctly positioned on Principal Street, and just a 15-minute push to Coopers Rock Condition Forest.

Bavarian Inn: Wanting for a lot more worldwide aptitude? Take into consideration scheduling an escape to the Bavarian Inn, perched on a putting bluff that overlooks the Potomac River Bend (just minutes from Harpers Ferry). A remain at this 11-acre, European-encouraged boutique vacation resort will come to feel like you’ve traveled worlds away (but luckily for us, you can depart the passport at home). Steeped in Alpine heritage, the luxurious property presents seventy two spacious condition rooms (the place you can cozy up following to a fuel hearth) or are living large in one of its 4 classical old-entire world chalets. And in legitimate Bavarian tradition, make sure to quit by its on-web-site Brew Pub, Brew Lounge, and out of doors Beer Backyard garden. This is the perfect location to splurge on a intimate autumnal retreat.

The Billy Motel: Absolutely sure, the concept of bunking at a motel could possibly not be your 1st decision, but The Billy Motel is everything but normal. This boutique motel is equivalent components retro and edgy, with a dash of (what they contact) “hillbilly fantastic.” Positioned off Route 32, the ten-space property was not long ago renovated and oozes persona. This mountaintop getaway is only minutes from the close by cities of Thomas and Davis, teeming with funky outlets, interesting coffee bars, art galleries, and songs venues. Outdoor journey hubs like Dolly Sods Wilderness Place, Canaan Valley Condition Park, and Monongahela Countrywide Forest are also just a small push away.

Canaan Valley Cabins: For a a lot more personal escape, verify out the stock shown by Canaan Valley Cabins. The corporation presents a varied assortment of rentals and vacation properties sprinkled in the course of the Canaan Valley. From isolated log cabins deep in the woods to bucolic estates that can slumber the total crew, they offer you a little something to in shape each individual style and funds. As well as, you can discover your perfect retreat by filtering alternatives with conditions these as pet-helpful listings, waterfront spots, and a lot more. No make any difference the place you wind up scheduling, you will be right in the heart of the region’s amazing drop foliage and heart-racing out of doors exploits.

Oglebay Vacation resort: The stately Oglebay Vacation resort can be found in Wheeling, just an hour from Pittsburgh, two hrs from Columbus, and three hrs from Cleveland. It’s perched on one,700 rolling acres and presents tons of things to do in shape for the total spouse and children. The not long ago current Wilson Lodge sports 1st-class accommodations with prime-notch amenities, even though their assortment of cottage rentals and estate properties come in three tiers: rustic, deluxe, and premium. Engage in a spherical on one of their 4 golfing courses, shell out the day checking out Schenk Lake (outfitted with pedal boats, mini golfing, and an aerial challenge program), or get up close and particular with the wildlife of The Great Zoo.

All set to Go?

It’s the prime time to learn firsthand why drop fanatics have fallen in enjoy with West Virginia. Experimented with and legitimate, Nearly Heaven is an enchanting wonderland for people of each individual age. For an even deeper dive, indicator up for a free of charge vacation guideline, or verify out their drop journey hub. It’s complete of tips and tips for 1st-time or returning people. Their Tumble Coloration Map even shows how the modifying colours sweep across the condition in the course of the season! You can also indicator up to get their weekly updates straight to your inbox so you by no means skip a conquer. Time is of the essence—don’t skip your shot at the drop journey of a lifetime.

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