Virginia’s most scenic road trips for the fall

Fall will be here before you know it, and that means pumpkin-spiced everything, a cool chill through the air, and beautiful fall foliage to enjoy all season long. Virginia has some of the best fall views in the country, so here are six scenic road trips to take this fall.

Once autumn  comes around in the Commonwealth, the natural landscape explodes in a conglomerate of color,thanks to the numerous tree species in the area. Some species that give the season its kaleidoscope of colors are the Loblolly Pine, Virginia Pine, Oaktree, American Beech, and more. One of the best ways to enjoy the autumnal palette is by taking a drive through one of Virginia’s beautiful highways and byways. The western side of the state is especially beautiful in October. Here are some of the best scenic drives to take for some extraordinary foliage this fall. 

Blue Ridge Parkway (Blue Ridge Region)

What better way to enjoy the fall foliage than a drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains? A picturesque route through the mountains, travelers on this road can enjoy an array of  tree species through various elevations. The differences in elevation mean that every fall color can be seen from the byway. Fall foliage is at its peak in this area in October, so don’t miss this road trip.

Skyline Drive (Shenandoah National Park)

Located in Shenandoah National Park, the Skyline Drive is different from other scenic highways because most of this road is only 35 mph. While this speed may feel like a snail’s pace for traditional travel, this slow drive allows travelers to take in the breathtaking landscape of Virginia’s mountains in autumn. 

Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive (Dickenson County)

Many say this dynamic, 19-mile long drive located on Route 611 is well worth the trip, especially during the fall. Aside from the beautiful foliage, there are also many vibrant wildflowers and wildlife along the drive. This route also has a long history, and travelers can see many old farms, barns, and other buildings of yore.

Mount Rogers Scenic Byway (Troutdale)

Spanning 60 miles (approximately three hours to drive), the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway is well worth the drive. This byway takes you through Shenandoah National Park, which offers a wide array of stunning vistas.  hours is a long drive, but there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the park’s amenities — we recommend packing a picnic. There’s even an opportunity to drive on Whitetop Mountain, the oldest mountain in the United States, during your drive. 

Colonial Parkway (Yorktown)

The Colonial Parkway is a historic route that takes you through Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. This route is full of beautiful scenery, and interesting architecture with its many tunnels. This scenic route becomes a kaleidoscope of color in the fall, and many of the trees match the parkway’s brick structures during peak foliage. Currently, the Colonial Parkway is being rehabilitated, but some parts of this road are still open for road trips. Make sure to check in to see what parts of the parkway are under construction this fall. 

Snickersville Turnpike (Loudoun County)

Loudoun County’s Snickersville Turnpike is one full of history and beautiful country landscapes. This road has been preserved by locals to retain its historical aesthetic, despite attempts to modernize the route. The Snickersville Turnpike Association is in constant contact with state officials to maintain the turnpike’s natural beauty. One trip down this road in mid-October would make anyone want to preserve the natural splendor of the route.