The Beauty of Autumn

As the heat of summer transitions into a vibrant autumn, Virginians everywhere will be clamoring to see the fall foliage. Virginia has an excellent array of places to see the fall leaves, whether you want to look at the bright reds and yellows against a Blue Ridge backdrop or enjoy a more coastal scene on our shores. When it comes to leaf gazing, our state has a lot to offer.

Perhaps the most famous spot to admire the fall foliage is the Skyline Drive. Winding its way through the Blue Ridge, this 105 mile road runs the distance of Shenandoah National Park. It is a scenic outlook any time of year, but particularly in the midst of a vibrant fall. Anyone making their way through the Skyline Drive should stop and check out the Monticello Wine Trail. This path has over 30 wineries, most of which offer scenic views of the mountains and fall leaves. As the souvenir magnet says, “Grapes don’t grow in ugly places.”

Another great place to see the fall leaves is Southwestern Virginia. This locale also offers a scenic mountain backdrop to compliment the dazzling display of leaves. Be sure to check out the Autumn spectacle at our State Parks — visit Grayson Highlands State Park to get a glimpse of the wild ponies while you’re gazing at the leaves. Hungry Mother State Park offers a view of the colorful mountaintops cascading around a beautiful lake.

The Potomac Heritage Trail offers great leaf outlooks for those in the Northern part of the state. The trail hugs the Potomac River, offering brilliant insights into our state’s history, as well as its scenery. Stop where the river rolls into Mather Gorge for a truly breathtaking view. Those in central Virginia can kayak or raft along the James River for a great look at the fall leaves set against rocky out coves and rambling waterways.

If you’re interested in seeing fall leaves in a more coastal setting, you should check out Kiptopeke State Park, near Cape Charles on the Eastern Shore. The park has an interesting mix of forests and beach views… the perfect place to soak up the scenery and the sounds of songbirds mixed with crashing waves.

Whatever scenic views you prefer to complement your foliage, Virginia can certainly offer it! Check out the Keep Virginia Beautiful website’s event calendar for more things happening around the state during this beautiful time of year!