West Virginia Has Amazing Fall Foliage — Here Are the Best Places to See It
It’s time to plan your fall getaway to West Virginia and experience the stunning landscape as it changes into a kaleidoscope of burnt orange, crisp red, and bright yellows.
And to help you with your trip planning, the West Virginia Department of Tourism has released its 2023 fall foliage map, which shows when different areas of the state are expected to reach peak color.
As of late August, WV Tourism is expecting the northeast corner of the state to peak in late September, followed by the central and southern regions in early October. The western part of the state is expected to peak in late October.
Of course, the exact timing of the peak foliage can vary depending on the weather. But no matter when you go, you’re sure to be amazed by the beauty of West Virginia’s fall colors.
Here are a few of the best (and our favorite) places to see fall foliage in West Virginia:
Whether you’re drawn to camping, hiking, riding, or embarking on a scenic road trip to enjoy views of the changing leaves, West Virginia offers an endless array of destinations to cater to your preferences.
Dolly Sods Wilderness: This remote wilderness area is home to some of the most stunning fall foliage in the state. It’s high-elevation, cinematic views of the burnt orange and bright reds are like nothing you’ll see south of Canada.
Seneca Rocks State Park: This popular rock climbing destination is known for its panoramic views that become even more dramatic with the vivid fall foliage. If you’re not into rock climbing, you can enjoy the views from a steep but rewarding 1.3-mile hike.
Spruce Knob: At 4,863 feet above sea level, Spruce Knob is West Virginia’s highest peak. This area offers backpacking and day hiking opportunities for the visitors looking to get a splendid view of the gorgeous natural scenery surrounding the area.
Monongahela National Forest: This vast forest is the second-largest national forest east of the Mississippi River, encompassing over 921,000 acres of land and is home to a variety of trees, including red spruce, balsam fir, and mountain ash. These trees turn a variety of colors in the fall, creating a stunning display of autumn foliage.
Highland Scenic Highway: This 43-mile scenic drive winds through the Monongahela National Forest and offers stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains. Be sure to stop to enjoy the mountain and valley views from one of the highway’s four overlooks. The leaves along the highway typically start to change color in late September and peak in early October.
Blackwater Falls State Park: This state park is home to a 57-foot waterfall with root beer-colored water that is surrounded by colorful foliage in the fall. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
How to get there and where to stay?
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the fall foliage in West Virginia, consider renting the MotoCamps Base Camp. Our fully-outfitted overland trailer is the perfect way to explore the backroads of the state and stay comfortable in style.
The MotoCamps Base Camp comes with everything you need, including a bed, kitchen, bathroom, and shower. It also has a rooftop tent, so you can stargaze under the clear West Virginia skies. We can even help you plan your trip and provide you with all the necessary gear.
So what are you waiting for?
WV Tourism declared West Virginia’s 2022 fall foliage the best in a decade. Start planning your fall foliage getaway to West Virginia today and let’s see what 2023 brings!