CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – From deep auburn to glowing amber, dazzling hues continue to unfold around the Mountain State as the West Virginia Department of Tourism releases the second fall foliage update of the season. Rainfall in the coming days will rejuvenate the leaves, setting the stage for peak conditions in the coming weeks.
“Bright colors are spreading across more areas of Almost Heaven each day,” said West Virginia Division of Forestry Director Jeremy Jones. “The rain expected this week will help preserve leaf moisture, resulting in a boost of vibrancy that stays on the trees for longer.”
This week’s tailored trip features a fall festival, scenic train ride, tastes of autumn, and picturesque trails — all of which can be enjoyed amidst peak color over the next few weeks. The department’s live leaf tracker continues to be updated in real time, offering a real-time view at foliage across the state. For a chance to be featured on the live leaf tracker and West Virginia Tourism’s social media channels, share your photos using #AlmostHeaven
“Beautiful pops of color can now be seen making their way into almost every region of the state,“ said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “This week’s leaf-peeping itinerary is perfect for locals eager to explore their own backyard as well as nearby visitors looking for the best color in the region.”
Leaf-Peeping Itinerary of the Week
🥞 Visit Preston County between September 23-28 to taste traditional buckwheat cakes at the annual Buckwheat Festival.
📸 Depart for Canaan Valley Resort State Park to witness some of the state’s most spectacular fall foliage and grab a photo on the Almost Heaven swing! For extra stunning views, take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain.
🍁 Don’t miss an autumn hike within the Dolly Sods Wilderness. Known for its unique, high-elevation plateau, this slice of Almost Heaven is home to untouched natural beauty.
🍴Visit Sirianni’s or Milo’s Cafe in Davis for a delicious home-cooked dinner.
🧳 Stay overnight in a cozy cabin tucked within the Monongahela National Forest.
☕ Grab a pumpkin spice latte and seasonal pastry at TipTop before heading to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
🚂 Board a steam-driven locomotive and journey up the mountain into a kaleidoscope of fall color.
🍴 Learn more about trains at the Cass Historical Museum and enjoy a meal at Shays Restaurant located on-site.
For those planning a trip later in the season, dozens of additional itinerary ideas can be found at wvtourism.com/fall. Follow West Virginia Tourism on Instagram for this week’s fall foliage journey, and join the Broadcast Channel to unlock special offers and insider tips curated exclusively for Broadcast Channel members only! To join, click “Fall Updates from Almost Heaven” on the @WVtourism Instagram bio.
