Best color time in West Virginia mountains
 

We are going to be in West Virginia in the third week of October. Is this too late for good fall color in the northern mountains? We will also be farther south, near New River Gorge. That should be OK. And anyone suggest "don't miss" spots?
Thanks very much!

tt

October should be just about right, although from what I hear it's been very dry in WV this summer.

If you are in the north, you shouldn't miss Cooper's Rock right above Morgantown. Blackwater Falls and Seneca Rocks further south and east are also amazing.

A great drive is to take Rt. 7 from Morgantown which is a neat little two lane that winds along the Cheat River I believe. From there you can explore backroads to get to Blackwater Falls and Seneca.

Beautiful state - I hope you enjoy it.

A stop at Babcock State Park is a must. Their Glade Creek Grist Mill is one of the most photographed sites in the state and is absolutely stunning in the fall. And the mill is easily accessible if you have anyone in the party that is limited. But there are tons of places to walk if that's your desire. http://www.babcocksp.com/

Steve

Thank you very much. looking forward to it!

Trees/leaves in the Canaan Valley area usually peak in late September. (A few years ago we had a blizzard on Halloween).

The fall season in the Charleston area normally is about 3 weeks later than the Valley.

See these links to past Fodor's threads:

http://preview.tinyurl.com/2h6dvh

http://preview.tinyurl.com/yqp6l7

I live somewhat south of W.VA in NC and we are having a very dry summer. Many leaves are already turning and some are off the trees. I anticipate an earlier than normal color change and a shorter than normal foliage season. You might want to call the rangers at one of the State parks and get their insights.