Fall Foliage Report
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year in Virginia, and traveling throughout the Commonwealth during this season can reveal an abundance of color. Virginia’s expansive woodlands, famously blue-tinged mountains, and rambling scenic byways are the place to be when fall foliage is at its fiery peak.
Fall Foliage Report for the weekend of October 12, 2019 from the Department of Forestry
By now, you may be wondering if the green trees will ever change! But if you look closely, you’ll notice the green is fading, and the underlying yellow leaf pigments are showing through. This change happens in response to shorter day length, regardless of the weather. Individual trees planted in urban and suburban landscapes often color earlier than those in the woods, so your own neighborhood might give you that first bit of autumn inspiration.
In parts of southwest Virginia and the Alleghenies, about a third of the trees have changed color. The Blue Ridge has some mountaintop patches of color that are beginning to spread. Although the summer drought may result in duller colors that turn brown quickly, there will still be patches of good color if you get out to look.
Notably in central Virginia, lots of dogwoods have turned to burgundy. Look for them along roadsides, where sumac, black gum, sassafras, and red maple will also have you seeing red. This week’s cooler weather should bring out even more pigments.
In general, the best fall color happens between October 10-20 in the mountains, October 15-25 in central Virginia and October 20-31 in eastern Virginia.
Shenandoah National Park
Look for live streams from Pass Mountain Overlook (mile 30 on Skyline Drive near our Thornton Gap Entrance Station which is located at mile 31.5 on Skyline Drive) on Thursdays, starting September 26. More Fall Information
Visitors can see current conditions and colors live through webcams located at https://www.nps.gov/shen/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm.
Visit Shenandoah National Park's social media accounts for more information:
Virginia's Blue Ridge
Plan your trip to see the vibrant fall colors and foliage of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains! Seeing the autumn leaves around the Roanoke Valley and along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite annual tradition for locals and visitors to Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
According to a variety of weather forecasts and predictions, it appears we’ll be experiencing peak fall color in late October and early November for 2019. Learn More.
Call our foliage hotline - (800) 424-5683.
Last Updated: 10/10/2019
Fall Experiences
-
From the rough and tumble on the mountains to the paved or sandy shores, there’s no end to the scenic views and adventures Virginia has to offer.
-
Witness local farms and Main Street communities transform into family playgrounds for fall festivals.
-
What can you do in 48 hours? Steal away for a few-day getaway. You deserve an enjoyable scenic drive through the foliage, the opportunity to savor Virginia's culinary and beverage delights, and above all, the time to reconnect with your loved ones.
-
Take the road less traveled. Enjoy photogenic foliage opportunities, great eats, and other hidden treasures.
-
Escape, just the two of you, to Virginia's fall splendor.
-
Oktoberfest is a multi-day German festival that runs from September into October each year. Celebrate in Virginia with craft beer, wine, and community events that boast delicious German foods and classic traditions.
-
October is dedicated to viniferous passions. Discover your local crush. Find events and festivals all month long.
