8 lovely leaf-peeping destinations in Virginia

Explore Virginia’s stunning fall foliage with our guide to eight exceptional leaf-peeping destinations featuring scenic trails, historic landmarks, and breathtaking driving tours.

Virginia is a leaf peeper’s paradise in the fall, offering a variety of vibrant landscapes to explore as the trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. While the Blue Ridge Parkway is a classic and obvious choice for many fall foliage enthusiasts, Virginia is home to many other lesser-known yet equally breathtaking spots to take in the seasonal colors.

From picturesque bike trails to historic drives, here are some of the top destinations for leaf peeping in the commonwealth, each offering a unique way to enjoy the splendor of autumn.

1. Virginia Creeper Trail

According to information from Visit Abingdon, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a multi-use pathway that follows the route of an old railroad bed. Named after the steam engine that once ran along it, this 34-mile trail starts in Abingdon and winds through rolling farmland to Damascus, with its highest point at Whitetop Station. The trail offers something for everyone, from beginner cyclists to more advanced riders, with options to make the journey either easy or challenging.

Fall is an especially beautiful time to visit, as the vibrant autumn leaves create a picturesque backdrop for cycling, hiking, or horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy stops along the way, such as the old railroad station at Green Cove or the trestle at Creek Junction, which also provides access to some of Virginia’s best trout fishing. With outfitters available to provide bike rentals and shuttles, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a perfect way to experience the fall colors up close.

2. George Washington Memorial Parkway  

In Northern Virginia, the George Washington Memorial Parkway offers a stunning fall driving experience, as noted by Visit Fairfax. Managed by the National Park Service, the parkway was originally designed for recreational driving, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely rides through scenic landscapes. Lined with trees that turn shades of russet, gold, and red during autumn, the parkway provides beautiful views of the Potomac River and the Washington, D.C., skyline.

The route links over two dozen historical sites, making it easy to combine a scenic drive with stops at significant landmarks. The parkway is also a great spot for biking and hiking, and with the Virginia Department of Forestry’s annual fall foliage reports, you can plan your visit to catch the trees at their peak colors, usually between late October and early November.

3. Monument Avenue, Richmond  

Visit Richmond highlights Monument Avenue as a National Historic Landmark and a prime spot for a fall walking tour. This cobblestone street, which cuts through the Museum District and Fan region of downtown Richmond, is lined with trees that put on a vibrant display of autumn colors. The trees along the sidewalks and grassy medians provide a perfect backdrop for a weekend walk.

Whether you’re with family, friends, or even your dog, Monument Avenue is an ideal place to stroll and soak in the seasonal atmosphere. 

4. Dismal Swamp Canal Trail  

For a different kind of fall experience, Visit Chesapeake recommends the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail. This paved multi-use trail runs for 8.6 miles along the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, offering a unique setting for biking or hiking. In the fall, the tree canopy turns shades of red, orange, and yellow, making the trail especially picturesque. With restrooms and picnic areas along the route, the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is ideal for a full day of exploring the outdoors.

In addition to the colorful foliage, the trail provides a peaceful escape into nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

5. Prince William Forest Park  

Located in Northern Virginia, Prince William Forest Park is a 15,000-acre park that offers miles of trails and scenic drives. Visit Prince William highlights this park as one of the best places to view fall foliage in the region. The park’s forested landscape bursts into color in late October and early November, with the leaves of oak, hickory, and maple trees creating a brilliant display. The park features more than 37 miles of hiking trails and 21 miles of biking paths, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike or a scenic drive, Prince William Forest Park is a must-visit location during the fall season.

6. Driving Tours in Charlottesville Area-Greene County & Roanoke Area-Bedford  

According to the Virginia Department of Forestry, the Charlottesville and Greene County areas are ideal for a fall driving tour, offering some of the state’s most stunning autumn landscapes. To embark on this scenic adventure, start by mapping your route along U.S. Route 33 or Skyline Drive, both of which offer incredible views of the changing leaves. Visitors can travel through scenic byways framed by rolling hills, dense forests, and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

In October and November, the region’s vibrant fall colors paint the countryside in rich reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a picture-perfect backdrop for leisurely drives. Highlights of this route include sprawling vineyards, historic estates, and picturesque farmland, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a wine tasting or explore local orchards. Make sure to plan your trip during the peak fall foliage season, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many roadside pull-offs.

Similarly, the Roanoke area, particularly Bedford, is highly recommended for its fall driving tours. Here, the Blue Ridge Mountains provide dramatic scenery, with vibrant foliage cascading down the ridgelines. To explore this area, follow the Blue Ridge Parkway or Route 43 for a day trip that offers breathtaking views at every turn. As you wind through the mountains, you’ll pass by historic towns and landmarks like the National D-Day Memorial. Many visitors opt to start their journey in Roanoke and drive toward Bedford, with stops at scenic overlooks along the way.

These routes are well-marked, and there are plenty of places to pull over, stretch your legs, and take in the scenery. The Virginia Department of Forestry also offers online maps and updates on peak foliage times, making it easier to plan your trip.

7. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests  

Stretching across a large portion of western Virginia, the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer over a million acres of outdoor recreation. According to the USDA, these forests are home to countless trails, campgrounds, and scenic drives, making them a prime destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. The forests’ diverse mix of tree species, including maples, oaks, and hickories, ensures a brilliant display of colors during the autumn months.

Whether you prefer hiking, camping, or simply taking in the views from one of the many overlooks, the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty of fall in Virginia.

8. Shenandoah National Park  

Finally, the National Park Service highlights Shenandoah National Park as one of the premier destinations for viewing fall foliage in Virginia. With its famous Skyline Drive running the length of the park, visitors can experience stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as they are transformed by the changing leaves. The park’s elevation range creates a long fall season, with the leaves starting to change in the higher elevations in early October and continuing into November in the lower valleys.

Whether you’re driving, hiking, or camping, Shenandoah National Park provides countless ways to experience the colors of fall.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.