Five Must-See Fall Foliage Hot Spots
Summer is nearing an end, and now is the best time to plan your fall-foliage getaway. West Virginia State Parks are the perfect locations to see some of the best fall foliage colors. All state parks take on fall colors and five stand out as perennial hot spots. Don’t miss the autumn splendor. West Virginia State Parks’ accommodations book quickly this time of year!
Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley Resort State Parks
Foliage in areas of higher elevation change colors first, so the Davis-Thomas area of Tucker County is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Within this area are two of the most popular and scenic state parks in West Virginia: Blackwater Falls State Park and Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Blackwater Falls is one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia. Add a background of beautiful autumn hues and it becomes even more breath-taking.
The last week of September and first week of October are typically the best times to visit the Davis-Thomas area of Tucker County.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
The first and second weeks of October are usually the peak weeks for fall foliage at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Passengers taking the 4.5 hour trip to Bald Knob, the third highest point in West Virginia, can enjoy the spectacular view from 4,700 feet above sea level. This is not the typical fall-foliage viewing experience, and a must for leaf peepers and train enthusiasts.
Babcock and Hawks Nest State Parks
Babcock State Park is another of West Virginia’s most photographed places. The classic shot of the working grist mill against a background of fall color is on every photographer’s shot list. The park even provides a webcam so visitors can track the leaves as they begin to change.
From Babcock, visitors can take a short 30 minute drive and see other classic fall foliage views at Hawks Nest State Park. From the height of the park’s scenic overlook, guests can see a panoramic view of a rugged section of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
Foliage at Babcock State Park typically peaks around the second week of October. Hawks Nest State Park usually peaks a week later.
