Whether or not you’re mountaineering the backcountry to beautiful overlooks or cruising the mountain byways, Southwest Virginia is an apparent alternative on your fall trip. E book a comfortable cabin or cottage and begin planning now for peak fall colour.
Whitetop Mountain
Drive straight to the highest of the second highest peak in Virginia for spectacular fall colours. You too can mix this journey with a brief hike to Buzzard Rock for one of many high 360 diploma views on the east coast. Should you’re in search of an extended hike to the summit, get your begin in Elk Backyard, and hike 3 miles to Whitetop, crossing water a number of occasions and altering surroundings in your approach up.
Again of the Dragon
A considered one of a form expertise for motorbike fans, The Again of the Dragon winds its approach by way of Smyth County into neighboring county Tazewell, the place you may make a pit cease for brews and reside music. The notorious Rt 16 has a number of overlooks on the best way the place you’ll be able to cease to absorb the breathtaking fall colours.
Smyth County is base camp for this state park boasting probably the most spectacular views of fall foliage in Southwest Virginia, and is incessantly listed as one of many high spots to see fall colour within the nation. Grayson Highlands has over 17 trails so that you can discover as you chase these colours. The autumn colours present up right here sooner than you may anticipate, because of the common elevation of 4,500’. Our favourite simple fall hikes in Grayson Highlands State Park embody: The Twin Pinnacles Path and the Massie Hole and Wilburn Ridge Loop. Mix the 2 hikes for the very best fall colour overlooks and valley views in the identical day. The autumn foliage received’t be the one stunner in your journey right here – the Grayson Highlands wild ponies delight all ages. Simply keep in mind: look, don’t contact or feed!
Hungry Mom State Park
It’s simple to make an entire weekend of recollections this fall with your loved ones at Hungry Mom State Park. Reserve a comfortable cabin or yurt and select your fall adventures. You may’t go fallacious on this park, the place you’ll be surrounded by the very best fall colours in Virginia in every single place you flip. Discover mountaineering trails, take a guided nature stroll, or strive your wheels out on their biking trails, excellent for freshmen.
The Effectively Fields – Saltville
Don’t wish to battle the crowds on the extra well-liked fall spots? Saltville’s pure and cultural assets have provided a house to human settlers for over 30,000 years. Get accustomed to the historical past alongside your fall foliage journey on the Salt Path. Discover the Saltville Effectively Fields and picture Woolly Mammoths grazing within the fields.
Appalachian Path – Elk Backyard Part
Hike this 2.3 mile out and again journey and mark this part of the AT off of your bucket listing. Like our Grayson Highlands suggestions, you’re prone to encounter wild ponies at Elk Backyard. Don’t miss the rocky climb to the highest of the knob, the place you’ll be handled to a view all the best way to North Carolina on a transparent day.
Mt Rogers Scenic Byway
Should you’re in search of a peaceable nation drive with beautiful mountain foliage, head southeast from Marion to the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway. This two-lane paved highway traverses the center of the Mount Rogers Recreation Space. Mix this scenic drive with a hike, pack a picnic from considered one of our native eating places and make it a full day of fall foliage.
The Iron Mountain Path plus Cranium’s Hole Overlook
Mountain bikers love the Iron Mountain Path. The principally dust and shale single observe path simply provides entry to the highest of Iron Mountain. Seize a picnic lunch in Chilhowie to recharge after your journey at Cranium’s Hole Overlook, the place you’ll be handled to panoramic views of the autumn colours. For wildlife watchers, Cranium’s Hole is great for hawk-watching throughout fall migration.
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