Fall color continues to spread, bringing the most vibrant autumn shades of the decade into a number of travel regions across the Mountain State as the West Virginia Department of Tourism releases its fourth fall foliage update of the year. The Department of Tourism is asking West Virginians to share current foliage conditions to their social channels in an effort to help spread the word about the most incredible fall colors seen in years.
“The color we’re seeing across the state is truly incredible, and something we want to help show the world,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Our fall hiking promotion with AllTrails is off to an incredible start with more than 15,000 participants in just three weeks. We continue to see a growing number of folks planning their vacations – and now their hikes– based on what they see on social media. So, we are reaching out to all ask West Virginians for their help in sharing the beauty of our hiking trails draped in fall foliage by posting videos on their social media channels using #AlmostHeaven and #AllTrails. To kick things off, we are offering the first 500 people exclusive West Virginia tourism merchandise.”
Fall Foliage Update
These weekly updates, prepared in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Forestry, are released in an effort to help travelers plan the best hikes amongst peak color. This week, astonishing fall color has made its way into the New River-Greenbrier Valley region. The iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park is a must-see as it shines with extra autumn splendor, peaking over the weekend and into the next. Raleigh and Mercer Counties are also currently displaying beautiful foliage, specifically at Grandview and Pipestem Resort State Park. Color in Fayette, Mercer and Raleigh Counties is estimated to be at 80% and will be nearing peak within the next week.
Marvelous pops of autumn hues can also be spotted in the Mountaineer Country region–– Marion, Monongalia, Taylor and Preston Counties have a kaleidoscope of colors splashed across the trees right now. For an up-close-and-personal look at this year’s exceptional foliage, visit Prickett’s Fort State Park, Coopers Rock State Forest and Tygart Lake State Park.
The Mountain Lakes region also offers great leaf peeping opportunities–– especially in Nicholas County, surrounding Summersville Lake, along with Braxton, Lewis and Clay Counties.
AllTrails Partnership + Video Request
AllTrails and the West Virginia Department of Tourism joined forces to offer adventure seekers a free, one-year AllTrails Pro membership to experience the Mountain State’s jaw-dropping fall colors, stunning vistas and uncrowded landscapes. The partnership has generated more than 15,000 participants in its first month alone. With AllTrails Pro, outdoor lovers will be able to take hiking to another level, with the ability to download offline maps, unlock more map details, bring trails to life with 3D maps, discover brand new trails and more. For more official information on the partnership, visit wvtourism.com/alltrails/.
As you hike throughout the Mountain State, be sure to post videos all of your favorite fall views using #AlmostHeaven and #AllTrails to be entered to win a West Virginia branded fanny pack–– the perfect accessory for all of your hikes. According to an Arrivia study, nearly one in three travelers look to social media when it comes to trip inspiration.
When you post current fall conditions for all to see, you’re encouraging travel to West Virginia and we want to reward the first 500 people who help lead this charge. Posts must come from public accounts to be considered for the giveaway.
How to win
- Be one of the first 500 people to post your video using #AlmostHeaven and #AllTrails.
- WV Tourism will send a direct message with a link to the form to enter.
- Participants fill out form.
- WV Tourism sends a fanny pack to your door!