Fall Foliage Report for Western Virginia State Parks
Oct. 29, 2026
Peak fall color has arrived across much of the Western Region. Claytor Lake and New River Trail are at peak, showcasing vibrant reds, oranges, golds and purples. Clinch River remains near peak, while Fairy Stone is approaching peak with brilliant amber, gold and crimson hues. Hungry Mother features strong displays of reds, yellows and oranges, and Natural Tunnel is seeing increasing color along ridges and trails. Hayfields continues to offer beautiful orange and yellow mountainside views as oaks and hickories hold their leaves. Smith Mountain Lake is steadily nearing peak, with rich reds and bright yellows expanding throughout the park. Grayson Highlands is past peak, with mostly brown and rust tones remaining. At Southwest Virginia Museum, early autumn color continues to emerge across the grounds and surrounding mountains.
Peak week is here! The chilly fall days have sped up the trees, and they’re turning their gorgeous fall colors in full force. Hickories and maples are vibrant red, sweetgums and dogwoods are a deep, royal purple, and we still have golden hues with some orange. Now is the time to visit our park to take in the wonderful fall views. After this week, trees may start to dim in color and turn brown. The trees are looking their best, hands down.
Best place to view:
The drive into the park opens up to amazing views, with the hickories bright red. Behind the Howe House are our ‘Autumn Blaze’ Freeman maples, living up to their name. These maples are a hybrid of red and silver maple, and we tap them for maple syrup in the winter. Take a drive around the park to take in all the different fall colors.
Why visit this week:
Spooky Storytelling: Friday, Oct. 30, from 6-7 p.m. at the Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground.
Fall Foliage Hayrides: Saturday, Oct. 31, from 1-5 p.m. at Shelter #1
Due to high participation, you now need to sign up to reserve a spot for the hayrides.
Costumes are encouraged for the hayrides on Halloween.
Like last week, our park is still mainly golden, with reds and oranges coming through. The past weekend's hard frost brought freezing temps that’ll help push us into peak fall color.
Best place to view:
: Our Fall Foliage Hayrides are the perfect way to see the leaves changing color throughout the park. An interpretive ranger will be on the trailer, leading a tour of the park and discussing why the leaves change color, along with other natural things we’ll see as we ride.
Why visit this week:
Survival 101 - Fire Starting - Friday, Oct. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground.
Fall Foliage Hayrides - Saturday, Oct. 24, from 1-5 p.m. at Shelter #1
Due to a high volume of participants, you now need to sign up to reserve a spot for the hayrides.
This week brings more fall foliage and mushrooms galore. With cooling temperatures and rain, the trees have shown their colors more than before. Storms this weekend blew leaves off trees, leaving golden yellow tulip poplars to litter the trails and forest floor. Spicebushes have joined the golden team and haves started transitioning from green to yellow. Maples are still turning red, with some turning yellow or orange. The moisture has also brought many mushrooms that can be seen alongside the trails or on the trunks of trees. We’ll be nearing our peak foliage in the weeks to come.
Best place to view:
Park in the Birch/Cedar Campground Overflow Lot to see the white mushrooms growing alongside the gravel lot. From there, enjoy the views of the red maples, yellow tulip poplars and spicebushes on Claytor Lake trail to the Claytor Lake Overlook.
Why visit this week:
Critters of Claytor Lake: Friday, Oct. 16, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground.
October Volunteer Workday - Trail Cleanup: Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground.
Fall Foliage Hayrides: Saturday, Oct. 17 from 1-5 p.m. at Shelter #1
Due to a high volume of participants, you now need to sign up to reserve a spot for the hayrides.
Accessibility:
The park has an All-Terrain Wheelchair available for both children and adults for free. For more information or to request a reservation, please visit the All-Terrain Wheelchair page.
The trees are still holding onto their green, but we expect a more gradual change as we get closer to peak season. The rainy weather this weekend brought cooler temperatures, but the week ahead brings sunny weather with low to high 70s during the day and cool mid-40s to low 50s at night. This Saturday will likely be cloudy, with rain expected Sunday. Maples are still leading, but tulip poplars and black cherries are starting to yellow, and oaks have started to turn.
Best place to view:
Check out our cabin area, where trees are gradually making their way to peak color. Here, you can enjoy gorgeous lakefront views while also taking in the maples and sweetgums turning color. At our beach, you can also find maples and dogwoods showing off their vibrant colors, along with the oaks that have begun to change color.
Why visit this week:
Owl Prowl: Friday, Oct. 9, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground.
The fall foliage has stayed about the same this week here at the park. Temperatures dropped beginning on the fall equinox, and the chilly days since have brought a distinctly fall feeling to the air. This week, we have warmer temperatures and potentially rain this weekend, which will provide extra moisture for our emerging fall colors. Red maples have continued to turn color, and a few leaves on the sweetgums have started turning bright red. We can’t wait to see what October will bring.
Best place to view:
Head on over to our mooring dock by the marina to see a gorgeous view of the gazebo overlooking the lake. Here you can see some of our trees’ fall colors peeking through.
Why visit this week:
Tree ID Hike: Friday, Oct. 2 from 4 - 5 p.m. at the Howe House
Beginner Birding: Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 - 11 a.m. at the Howe House
Fall is slowly rolling in and the trees are hesitant to change. After dry conditions, storms rolled through today and showers are expected for the next few days. Our hot summer days are shifting into moderate, cooler temperatures as we transition into the fall equinox. This weekend is expected to be sunny in the low 70s during the day and mid to high 40s in the night. While we’re still green overall, sycamores are yellowing, maples are starting to redden, and dogwoods have been showing off their deep purple colors. Some trees have already browned and dropped leaves, likely due to the lack of rain. We’re looking forward to seeing the trees in the campgrounds, throughout the park, and around the lake to start displaying those fall hues we all love dearly.
Best place to view:
Take a stroll down to the fishing pier behind the historic Howe House to take in the scenic views. Those who are red-green colorblind can look through our EnChroma viewfinder located on the pier. While you’re there, feel free to explore the visitor center inside or check out our gazebo.
Why visit this week:
On Friday, we have our Owl Prowl program at the Interpretive Campfire Circle in Dogwood Campground from 7 - 8 p.m. This Saturday is also National Public Lands Day when we’ll have a Shoreline Cleanup, Tree ID Hike, and an Edible and Medicinal Plants program throughout the day. Come support our park by volunteering or visiting and enjoy the free parking!
Over the past week, St. Paul, Virginia, experienced mild fall weather with cool mornings, comfortable afternoons and generally dry conditions. Some leaves have begun falling, while many trees remain near peak color.
Best place to view:
The trails on Sugar Hill
Why visit this week:
Join us in the town of St. Paul for a Trunk or Treat at 5 p.m. on Oct. 31.
This past week brought cooler weather, and the mountains around town are finally popping with early color. Ridgetops and forest edges have begun to change, with yellows from birch and walnut showing up first. Maples and dogwood add hints of red, while oaks still mostly hang on to their green. A mix of chilly nights and a little mist helped everything shift faster.
Best place to view:
The trails on Sugar Hill.
Why visit this week:
On Oct. 24, we will hold Halloween Hayrides; registration is required. Please call the administrative office for more information and to reserve a spot.
Fall color is just starting to show in St. Paul. Most trees are still green, but early splashes of red, orange, and yellow are popping up. Colors should get brighter through mid-October, even if some trees look a bit muted from the dryer summer. Weather was mild this week with some clouds and light showers, with days in the 70s and nights cooling into the 40s and 50s.
Best place to view:
The Trails on Sugar Hill
Why visit this week:
Step Into Fall Hike: Oct. 16, at 2 p.m. Meet at the Sugar Hill Trail head.
Fall colors are really starting to pop at Douthat State Park! While we are likely still a few days away from peak foliage, the mountains are showing noticeably more color than last week. The biggest changes are in the hickory trees, which have turned brilliant shades of yellow, while the oak trees are beginning to show red hues. Looking across the mountains, splashes of yellow and orange are becoming much more noticeable against the remaining green leaves. With color continuing to develop throughout the park, the next several days should bring even more vibrant fall scenery.
Best place to view:
For a beautiful view of the fall foliage, head to the Lakeview Camp Store. The back deck offers a relaxing spot to sit back, take in the lake views and enjoy the vibrant colors surrounding the mountains. While you’re there, browse souvenirs or grab a bite from the grill, open Wednesday through Sunday.
Why visit this week:
This Saturday, Oct. 24, join us for a Basic Tree ID Walk. With changing leaves, emerging seasonal textures, and distinctive bark and branching patterns easier to spot as the canopy thins, it’s an ideal time to sharpen your tree-ID skills and deepen your connection to the forest.
Fall colors have not changed significantly over the past week at Douthat State Park. Dogwood trees continue to display deep red and maroon hues, while maples are showing bright shades of yellow and orange. Most oak trees remain green, though some are beginning to show hints of color at the tips of their leaves.
Across the mountains, green remains the dominant color, but patches of yellow and orange are beginning to emerge along the higher elevations. As fall progresses, these early signs of change offer a glimpse of the colorful scenery still to come.
Best place to view:
To get the most out of the fall foliage this week, take a hike up to the top of the dam and see the mountains reflected on the lake. To access the dam, park at the Discovery Center and walk towards the Kids Fishing Area. You will see a set of stairs to reach the top. It is truly a breathtaking view.
Why visit this week:
Every Saturday in October at 6 p.m. we are hosting a Campfire Cookery program. Join a ranger around the fire at Douthat State Park, gathered inside a historic CCC-built shelter for an evening learning about the history of the park and indulging in a warm apple crisp.
Fall colors have not changed significantly over the past week at Douthat State Park. Dogwood trees continue to display deep red and maroon hues, while maples are showing bright shades of yellow and orange. Most oak trees remain green, though some are beginning to show hints of color at the tips of their leaves.
Across the mountains, green remains the dominant color, but patches of yellow and orange are beginning to emerge along the higher elevations. As fall progresses, these early signs of change offer a glimpse of the colorful scenery still to come.
Best place to view:
For a great view of the fall colors, take a short hike along Heron Run Trail, an easy 0.8-mile out-and-back trail that begins at Lakeside Campground. The trail follows the shoreline of Douthat Lake before winding briefly into the woods. Along the way, hikers can enjoy beautiful views of the mountains reflected on the lake, as well as the changing colors of the forest canopy.
Why visit this week:
Every Saturday in October, Douthat State Park offers a unique guided hike at 3 p.m. This Saturday, join us for Migrate with Us, where we’ll explore the fascinating world of migration as we walk along the lakeshore and look for birds moving through the park. Bring binoculars if you have them.
Fall is slowly making its way to Douthat State Park, but the forest remains predominantly green. While peak foliage is still a ways off, a few early signs of seasonal change are beginning to appear.
Sycamore trees are leading the way, with their leaves turning even more yellow than last week. Tulip poplar leaves are also beginning to take on a slightly yellow tint. Meanwhile, flowering dogwoods have started dropping their bright red berries, adding another sign that the seasons are changing.
Some trees throughout the park are showing dry, brown leaves. While this can be part of the seasonal transition, dry conditions and environmental stress can also cause leaves to turn brown before developing their typical fall colors.
For now, green remains the dominant color at Douthat. Keep an eye on the changing canopy as the first hints of autumn begin to spread throughout the park.
Best place to view:
The best place to view this week is along the YCC Trail. The trail starts at Camp Carson Picnic Area and follows the lakeshore all the way to the boat launch. The YCC trail is rated easy and is 0.9 miles long. Walking on this trail, you will pass the beautiful spillway and see the fall colors reflecting off the lake.
Most of the foliage at Douthat State Park remains green at this time, as we are still in the early stages of the fall season. However, a few signs of changing color are beginning to appear. Sycamore trees are showing hints of yellow, while some dogwood leaves are developing beautiful shades of deep maroon, accompanied by their bright red berries.
Cooler temperatures are expected this week, which may encourage more trees to begin changing color. We will continue to monitor the foliage as the season progresses and expect to see more noticeable color developing in the coming weeks.
Best place to view:
For the best view of the fall colors, head to the boat launch. This spot offers a wide view of the lake and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect place to take in the scenery. It’s also home to our EnChroma color blind viewfinder, which helps more visitors experience the full beauty of fall.
Why visit this week:
National Public Lands Day is this Saturday, Sept. 26. Enjoy free parking and join us for a volunteer workday at our satellite park, Green Pastures Recreation Area. From trail tidying and litter pickup to sprucing up picnic areas, your efforts will help keep Green Pastures welcoming for all who visit.
This week’s color change has accelerated with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. With conditions just right, the landscape is now almost at peak, as the canopy shifts into brilliant shades of amber, gold, and crimson.
Best place to view:
Walking on any of the trails throughout the park.
Why visit this week:
Friday, Oct. 30
Fall in Virginia is enchanting on its own, but the legendary fairy stones make it even more magical. Join us for a guided hunt where you’ll learn the folklore behind these unique formations and maybe discover one of your own to take home.
Breathe in the crisp October air as you hike the Whiskey Run Trail, which highlights the forest’s seasonal transformation and offers a relaxing way to enjoy peak leaf color.
Explore the science and mystery behind the changing leaves. This family-friendly program reveals what really makes fall color so vibrant and why trees put on such a spectacular show each year.
Step back in time on this interpretive walk through the remnants of historic Fayerdale. As shadows lengthen and leaves crunch underfoot, you’ll hear gripping accounts from the region’s moonshining past.
Gather around a warm campfire. Join us for an evening of crackling flames, shared stories and the peaceful sounds of the forest at dusk.
Saturday, Oct. 31:
Venture into Moonshine Hollow as we explore the region’s colorful past. This guided hike blends history, folklore and scenic vistas into one memorable fall outing.
Volunteers will also help install bat boxes, providing crucial habitat for these beneficial insect eaters.
Learn about one of the park’s most misunderstood residents: Virginia's native opossums, their ecological importance, quirky habits and surprising charm.
The hillsides have taken on a rich, honey-glazed glow, with hints of deep red beginning to slip through the canopy. A few light rains brushed across the landscape, adding a soft sheen to the leaves and deepening their color just before the season’s first frost arrived. That frost marked a sudden and striking shift. Only days ago, temperatures sat comfortably in the mid-80s; now the mornings open in the mid-30s, crisp enough to turn every breath into a small cloud. This sharp drop has accelerated the transformation, nudging the maples, oaks and poplars toward full autumn brilliance.
Best place to view:
The beach on Douthat Lake.
Why visit this week:
Looking for a fall adventure with a touch of mystery, history and Halloween fun? Visit Fairy Stone State Park this weekend and experience some of the wonders that make this place truly special. Start your journey by learning about the park’s famous fairy stones — rare naturally formed crystals shaped like crosses. Hear the legend behind them, then set out to hunt for your own lucky keepsake to take home. Join a ranger-led hike and uncover a piece of local history as you explore the remnants of the old iron mine that once supported the bustling town of Fayerdale. It’s a chance to walk through the past while enjoying the beauty of autumn in the park. As the sun sets, the weekend celebrations continue with a festive Trunk or Treat event and spooky Haunted Hikes, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re searching for treasures, exploring the forest or diving into Halloween spirit, Fairy Stone State Park has something magical waiting for you. Visit — adventure awaits! www.virginiastateparks.gov/fairystone-events
Most of the park still appears wrapped in summer’s green, but the first hints of autumn are beginning to stir. Acorns scatter the ground like little marbles, and a soft quilt of brown oak leaves is spreading across the grass. Splashes of red and orange are just starting to flicker through the treetops, offering a preview of the color show to come. Temperatures have swung wildly — from brisk mornings in the low 50s to warm, almost summery afternoons in the mid-80s. Heavy rain and sharp wind gusts recently swept through, shaking loose even more leaves and the occasional limb, leaving the trails speckled with the early signs of fall’s arrival.
Best place to view:
Lakefront cabins
Why visit this week:
In addition to being ideal hiking and camping weather, the park is hosting multiple historical and educational programs: from the classic Fairy Stone Hunt, to observing amphibians, reptiles and even nocturnal insects.
Cool mornings in the 50s and mild afternoons in the 70s are setting the stage for early fall color. Poplars are shedding their leaves quickly, and hints of orange and gold are appearing at the tips of the trees. Some rain over the weekend encouraged even more leaves to fall, adding to the seasonal change. We’re excited to see what the weeks ahead will bring.
Best place to view:
Amphitheater
Why visit this week:
New Moon Stargazing Program.
Join a ranger Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. at the Upper Beach Parking Area for an evening of stargazing under the dark skies of the new moon. With little to no moonlight interfering with visibility, this is one of the best times of the month to observe the Milky Way, distant galaxies and seasonal constellations.
Cooler temperatures and recent rainfall have initiated fall color changes throughout the park. Average temperatures have ranged from the lower 50s to the upper 70s, with several rainy days providing the needed moisture to ensure a vibrant fall display.
Early color is visible on sourwood, black gum, Virginia creeper and select maples, displaying shades of red, orange and yellow. Hickories are beginning to turn gold, while most oaks remain green.
Storms last week brought gusty winds and rainfall, resulting in increased leaf drop, scattered downed branches and tree damage in some areas of the park.
Best place to view:
Our favorite view this week is the Little Mountain Falls Trail Overlook facing north, where you can see the first early shifts of color in the surrounding canopies. .
Why visit this week:
Experience the beauty of early fall at Fairy Stone State Park during the First Annual Fairy Stone 5K on Saturday, Oct. 3. Runners and walkers will travel through the campground and cabin area, taking in the natural scenery and the start of autumn colors along the way.
Tulip poplars are dropping yellow and brown leaves as the season shifts. Dogwoods are showing red berries and purple foliage, and oaks are releasing plenty of acorns. Days still reach almost 90 degrees, but nights fall into the 60s, helping color develop. Rain has been minimal, so leaves are dropping faster and colors are duller. The landscape is just starting to change. Soon, maples will brighten, birds will migrate, and mornings will turn crisp as fall settles in.
Best place to view:
Head to the beach area facing Stuart’s Knob for the best view of our slowly emerging fall colors.
Why visit this week:
National Public Lands Day on Sept. 26 will include a guided hike and several hands-on educational activities, such as invasive plant removal, a seed bomb workshop, and tree planting. Early fall is an ideal time to manage invasive species like autumn olive and Japanese stilt grass, since their seasonal traits, red berries on autumn olive and pink seedheads on stilt grass, make them easy to spot and remove.
The vast amount of color has dwindled, leaving only sparse pops of red and yellow. Many trees have completely lost their leaves, and most of the colors still visible are brown and rust. Fewer leaves in the canopy have opened up different views for visitors to experience throughout the park.
Best place to view:
The overlooks on the Twin Pinnacles trail offer long-range views with small splashes of lingering foliage.
Why visit this week:
his is one of the best times of year for hiking, before the days grow short and the cold of winter sets in. Breathe the crisp mountain air and enjoy the scenery!
The first heavy freeze occurred on Sunday, Oct. 18, and the leaves are much more subdued in color now. Some oaks still have green leaves, but most other tree species have passed their peak colors. With the high winds and rain over the past weeks, some trees have dropped all their leaves. With the reduced canopy, the landscape is easier to see, offering open views of the mountains that were hidden during the summer.
Best place to view:
Sugarland Overlook
Why visit this week:
With winter temperatures fast approaching at our high elevation, now’s the perfect window to get in a few fall hikes and photos of the surrounding mountains.
With the cooler weather and shorter days, the trees have really begun to explode with color. The heavy rain and high winds over the past weekend have impacted some trees, and there are plenty of leaves that have already dropped. The fall transition is even more evident at higher elevations as we move through the month of October. There are still plenty of oaks that haven’t started to change, which gives quite a delightful color palette.
The trees are beginning to draw attention throughout the park. Leaves are changing, and reds and oranges are starting to pop throughout the mountain peaks. The variety of hardwoods throughout the park creates a collage of color that will only grow more vibrant as the season progresses. With the cooler temperatures and the changes in the forest, fall is in the air.
Best place to view:
Sugarland Overlook
Why visit this week:
The ribbon-cutting and reopening of the Visitor Center is on Oct. 16.
The trees are slowly starting to change colors as the park heads towards the first signs of fall. Although green is still the predominant color, there are a few maples that have already started turning throughout the park. With the temperatures in the 30’s and 40’s, it already feels like fall, even if the foliage hasn’t quite caught up. The real changes will start happening in the weeks ahead as our days shorten and the nights grow even chillier. .
Best place to view:
Sugarland Overlook
Why visit this week:
With temperatures cooling down, now is the best time to hike the trails and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
The trees are slowly starting to change colors as the park heads towards the first signs of fall. There are a few maples that have already started turning throughout the park. The real changes will start happening in the weeks ahead.
Some beautiful foliage remains at Hayfields State Park! The mountainsides show lots of oranges and yellows as the oaks and hickories continue to hold on to their leaves.
Best place to view:
Park Office Porch, Eagle’s Rest Overlook, Laurel Loop Trail
Hayfields is past its peak for fall colors, but the park is still a sight to behold. You can find some nice spots of color lingering in and around the fields, and in the tree canopies along the trails.
Best place to view:
Park Office Porch, Eagle’s Rest Overlook, Laurel Loop Trail
Hayfields is seeing a delayed fall this year, but the color has progressed since last week. We are starting to see some nice yellows appearing on the hillsides and some bright reds in some of the maples.
Best place to view:
Park Office Porch, Eagle’s Rest Overlook
Why visit this week:
We will have some lovely weather coming up this week. Come out for a relaxing fall hike on Oct. 16, from 3-4 p.m.!
Hayfields is seeing a delayed fall this year, but the color has progressed since last week. We are starting to see some nice yellows appearing on the hillsides and in the maples around the farmhouse., giving an autumnal look to our peaceful, pastoral landscape. More changes are sure to follow as the days shorten and the temperatures drop.
Best place to view:
Park Office porch
Why visit this week:
This coming weekend, the annual Hands and Harvest Festival is taking place in Highland County. To celebrate, we have some special fall foliage hikes happening over at Hayfields. A ranger-led hike will run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 9-11, starting at 2 p.m.
Hayfields State Park is still holding onto summer with predominantly green foliage, but that's expected to change within the next couple weeks as temperatures drop. Our rolling pastures and mature hardwoods are beautiful any time of year, but we're looking forward to seeing a more dramatic change soon!
Best place to view:
The best view of foliage is from the Eagle's Rest Overlook where you can take in the scenery of the Bullpasture River Valley.
Why visit this week:
Come visit this weekend for a Fall Foliage Frolic on Oct. 3, where we’ll learn about the park, check out the Bullpasture River and take pictures of the scenic fall foliage along the way. The reward at the end of this 1.2-mile moderate hike is an amazing view from the Eagle's Rest Lookout!
Fall colors are looking great this week. Most trees have changed, and the mix of reds, yellows and oranges shows that the season is fully underway. Cooler days have helped the colors settle in, and the landscape now feels very much like fall. It’s a good time to get outside and enjoy the views while the leaves are still holding strong.
Best place to view:
The best place to see fall foliage this week is the Clyburn Hollow Overlook. The view across the water provides a beautiful backdrop for the changing leaves and offers one of the season's most scenic spots.
Why visit this week:
Even though no major events are scheduled, it is still a great week to visit. The fall colors are at their best right now, and the cooler weather makes it perfect for a quiet walk, a scenic drive or just enjoying the view from the overlooks. It’s a nice chance to take in the season without the crowds.
The leaves appear to be changing to yellow more each day. Right now, we have a tinge of yellow, but this week, we’re hoping for a more dramatic change. The greens will turn yellow all over the park, and we will start seeing some reds and possibly some oranges start showing through. Rain from the hurricane hit here on Sunday, so if the leaves hold on, the colors will be even more vibrant for it. The evenings and mornings are still cool with warm days, which is the perfect environment for nice fall color.
Best place to view:
For a nice stroll through the fall foliage, walk the Lake Trail all around the lake. You will have a chance to see a variety of tree species changing their outerwear in preparation for winter. Enjoy the sparkle of the sun off the lake and hear the geese as they come in for a landing or take off for short flight before they decide to leave for good.
Why visit this week:
Hungry Mother is offering a Fall Colors Hike to the Clyburn Ridge Overlook on Saturday, Oct. 17. After enjoying a walk through the mountains, stop by the Discovery Center and help feed our ambassador animals. See a hellbender, the largest salamander in the US and one that might be listed as endangered very soon, as he chomps down on his favorite meal.
On Sunday, Oct. 18, join Tina Hayes as she shows you the calming effect nature has on our body through Forest Therapy.
Our canopies are still very green at Hungry Mother State Park. The leaves are just barely starting to change to a light yellow on various trees. Sourwood and dogwood trees are slowly adopting their red fall foliage. Since it's been a fairly dry month, some leaves are turning brown and falling to the ground. Hopefully, with the rain this week, the colors will pop a little in the weeks to come. Evenings and mornings are still cool, with warm days, which makes the perfect environment for nice fall color.
Best place to view:
The boat ramp off Mitchell Valley Road has a variety of trees. This is one place where you can see sweet gum trees and their brilliant transformation to red in the coming weeks.
Why visit this week:
Hungry Mother is having a fun-filled day with games, crafts, hayrides, pumpkin carving, a live animal program and a campfire with storytelling at our seasonal finale Fall Festival this Saturday, Oct. 10. Come out and enjoy the changing color of leaves at one of the most treasured parks in Virginia.
Hungry Mother State Park is still very green after a a fairly dry month leading into fall. A few leaves are starting to take on a very light-yellow tinge, while everything else remains in various shades of green. The best falls start slowly and then linger, though, so we’re hopeful for a beautiful display. Our evenings and mornings are very cool, with warm days, which provide the perfect environment for nice fall color.
Best place to view:
Hungry Mother Lake is always gorgeous at this time of year. The mist rises in the morning as the sun pops over the mountain. Enjoy the way the verdant foliage shines: one last goodbye from summer before fall fully sets in.
Why visit this week:
If you’re a birder or even just have an appreciation for our feathered friends, plan to attend the Salty Bird Festival this weekend in Saltville at the Well Fields. Check out the Hungry Mother birding table as you learn about migration and our local habitats, explore around the Well Fields on guided bird walks, and enjoy the camaraderie and stories of birders from all over.
The fall color change is just beginning to take hold this week, with the landscape still dominated by rich green foliage. Only a few scattered trees are starting to show the earliest hints of yellow and light gold, suggesting the season is slowly shifting but not yet at peak. Warm days and cool nights are helping set the stage for more noticeable changes in the coming weeks, but for now, the forest retains a mostly summer-like feel. Visitors will see subtle transitions along edges of trails, wetland areas and spots that receive more sunlight, where leaves are just starting to fade from bright green to softer tones. While dramatic color isn’t widespread yet, this early phase offers a calm, quiet preview of the vibrant season to come. It’s an ideal time for those who appreciate the slow, gradual turn of foliage and want to enjoy the park before larger crowds arrive later in the fall.
Best place to view:
The best place to take in the early foliage this week is Lake Overlook. Although colors are still developing, the view across the water provides a beautiful backdrop where the first signs of change stand out against the lake’s calm surface.
Why visit this week:
This weekend features free fishing days, offering a perfect opportunity for visitors to enjoy the outdoors without needing a fishing license. It’s a great chance for families, beginners, and seasoned anglers alike to relax by the water and make the most of the late-summer scenery.
After a few rainy weekends, things are brightening back up. We had beautiful weather over the weekend and saw more reds and oranges make their way down the ridge. Along the trails and in the picnic area, you will spot festive leaves and very busy squirrels and chipmunks gathering acorns and walnuts.
Best place to view:
The weather is perfect for a hike on the Purchase Ridge trail.
Why visit this week:
We have Halloween-themed events on Saturday, including:
Build-a-Creature, where we’ll talk about how adaptations in native animals (as well as creatures of Appalachian folklore) help them be specially made for their environment.
The weather continues to cool, and with the rain and wind over the weekend, many leaves have fallen from the trees. Color change has been more subtle than in past years but is still evident from any overlook in the park.
Best place to view:
Cabin area
Why visit this week:
Join us for a Moonrise Hike on Thursday, Oct. 22, for our last astronomy event for the season, or come by Saturday, Oct. 24, between 7:30-9:30 p.m. for Storytelling at the Tunnel.
We have still been enjoying cool evenings and warmer days, and the rain over the weekend began knocking leaves off the trees. Color change has been the most noticeable in the Dogwood and Maple trees and we hope to continue to see more in the next week.
Temperatures continue to cool overnight, with warm days, making for foggy mornings this week. More trees are starting to shift to yellow hues, and we are seeing pops of color from late-season blooming flowers, including narrowleaf sunflowers. Though fall has come on slowly this year, our park is far from colorless, and this transition phase has a beauty all in its own.
Best place to view:
Lovers’ Leap Trail
Why visit this week:
Learn how Mother Nature can both inspire and help you create your next masterpiece during a Crafting with Nature program or come by to learn from our astronomy volunteers at the Star Party on Saturday evening.
We have had our first noticeably cool mornings over the past week, and while there hasn't been any stark color change in the park, hints of yellow are starting to show in the trees. The sycamores have begun losing their leaves, the goldenrod has bloomed, and grasses in no-mow zones are turning red, making Stock Creek the best place to enjoy early fall.
Best place to view:
See the best scenery this week along the creek, and at Stock Creek Recreational Area, Tunnel Trail and Carter Log Cabin Trail.
Why visit this week:
Visit Saturday, Oct. 3, from 4 – 5 p.m. for the first Fall Hayride of the year.
Then on Sunday, Oct. 4, from 10 – 11 a.m., join us for our first Fall Colors Hike of the year.
At New River Trail State Park, it has been a sunny week with foggy, cold mornings and clear afternoons reaching temperatures between 55-70 degrees. Our fall foliage has entered its peak! The hills are covered in cozy shades of oranges and browns. Pops of red, green and yellow can be found in the canopies, with leaves falling whenever a crisp breeze blows. This week is the best time to take a bike ride and some pictures before the leaves begin to disappear.
Best place to view:
Foster Falls, trestles overlooking the New River and other river overlooks
This week on New River Trail feels like fall settling in for good. Mornings start with a layer of frost and a soft fog that lingers until the sun rises. Leaves and walnuts crunch along the trail’s edges, and the trees are in that in‑between stage — half still hanging onto summer green, the other half glowing with yellows, browns and the occasional pop of orange or red.
Best place to view:
Foster Falls, trestles overlooking the New River and river overlooks
Cooler weather and heavy rains have officially activated our foliage here at New River Trail. The black walnut trees are nearly in full yellow color, and their nuts can be found scattered throughout the trail. Our maples are showcasing lovely hues of bright red and yellow all throughout their canopies. Some oaks and other tree species are beginning to show browns, yellows and oranges.
Best place to view:
Foster Falls and trestles overlooking the New River.
With last week being unseasonably cool, and nights dipping into the low 50s and mid-40s, many black walnut trees along the New River are starting to show the beginnings of their yellowy autumn hues. Here and there, you can see squirrels gathering the early fallen nuts. At Foster Falls, several maple trees have begun showing small splotches of bright red in their canopies. And the first brown leaves of the season can be found all along the trail.
Best place to view:
Foster Falls
Why visit this week:
Bring your canine companions to the B.A.R.K. Ranger Walk at Foster Falls on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The nights are getting quite chilly now, which has allowed for more reds and purples to be revealed. As the days get shorter, the peak of color is nearing. Hickories are turning a golden yellow, which contrasts nicely with the vibrant reds of maple, sourwood, black gum and dogwood.
Best place to view:
Along Interpretive Trail road and in the coves near the Discovery Center.
Why visit this week:
Enjoy self-guided opportunities this week. Explore over 15 miles of trails on foot or by mountain bike and enjoy the kaleidoscope of fall colors throughout the park. The cool, crisp days are an excellent time to visit our fishing pier, drop a line or take in views of the lake.
The park is still mostly green, but it's slowly shifting to more vibrant colors. Temperatures dropped to more typical fall levels, and our hickories started showing golden hues.
Best place to view:
Along Interpretive Trail Rd. and in the coves near the Discovery Center.
Why visit this week:
Saturday, Oct. 24, 4-8 p.m.: “Owl-o-ween” Halloween Family Adventure – the Park has partnered with several community businesses and organizations to offer this fun-filled event. Join us at the Discovery Center for hay wagon rides, crafts, a hot dog and marshmallow roast, a Trick-or-Treat Trail, a ‘slime lab’, dancing skeletons, fire trucks and more!
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park has been enjoying another beautiful stretch of weather, with warm, sun-filled days and crisp, comfortable evenings. The past couple of nights have even brought light frost, offering an early hint of the seasonal shift. As nighttime temperatures drop, the first signs of autumn are appearing across the park, as you can see in the photos. Vibrant reds and yellows are emerging, and some leaves are already falling, signaling that the transition is well underway. Visitors can also notice soft washes of color spreading across the surrounding mountains, providing a quiet preview of the brilliance still to come.
Best place to view:
Along State Park Rd. and in the coves near the Discovery Center.
Why visit this week:
Sunday, Oct.18: Shorefire Trail Races – This event will take runners on a scenic tour linking the Smith Mountain Lake State Park trail system, winding through native forest with expansive lake views.
The Discovery Center will be open for exploration on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16 and 17.
This past week, the fall temperatures arrived along with a couple of days of rain. Nature enjoyed this respite from the summer heat and displayed a little more color throughout the park, with splashes of yellows and reds appearing in the tree canopies. Pollinators were busy gathering the last of the nectar in preparation for winter.
Best place to view:
Along State Park Road and in the cove near the Discovery Center.
Biking and hiking are popular activities with cooler fall temperatures and fewer crowds in the park. Whether you ride or hike along the road, or venture further afield on one of our thirteen trails, you can enjoy leaf-peeping within sight of the lake.
Due to a severe drought this year and extremely hot temperatures well into September, there has been little color change in the trees at this time, with the exception of a few red maples. However, with the arrival of cooler weather the last few days, we are hopeful that we’ll soon see an increase in red, orange, and yellow leaves. In the meanwhile, the trees have started putting forth their seeds in abundance.
Best place to view:
Along State Park Rd. and in the coves near the Discovery Center.
Why visit this week:
“Camper Crafts” in the campground and “Bear Aware” at the Discovery Center Pavilion on Oct. 3.
Fishing and hiking are popular activities with the cooler temperatures of fall and fewer crowds in the park.
The past couple of nights have even brought light frost, offering an early hint of the seasonal shift. As nighttime temperatures drop, the first signs of autumn are appearing across the park, as you can see in the photos. Vibrant reds and yellows are emerging, and some leaves are already falling, signaling that the transition is well underway. Visitors can also notice soft washes of color spreading across the surrounding mountains, providing a quiet preview of the brilliance still to come.
Best place to view:
Victorian Garden and deck of the 101 Train Car.
Why visit this week:
This Saturday, Oct. 31, the park will offer the following program:
5-9 p.m. Hoots 'N' Haints Family Festival: Children 12 and under, and their families, are invited to the park for a variety of activities and games.
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween night at the museum! We’re calling all brave trick-or-treaters to take a break from filling your candy bags and join us for an evening packed with ghoulish fun. Dive into creepy stories, visit our mysterious fortune teller, play all kinds of Halloween-themed games, explore the thrilling “Haunting on the Hill” attraction and enjoy plenty of surprises along the way.
We'll award prizes to game winners and participants, so everyone has a chance to bring home a little Halloween magic. All kids ages 12 and under will receive enough free tickets to play every game, and warm hot chocolate will be available all evening to keep the chills away.
Admission to events at the Hoots ‘N’ Haints Family Festival is free.
Our days are still sunny here at the Southwest Virginia Museum, but after many crisp nights and a brief midweek rain, signs of autumn are finally showing through. Light frost in recent nights has brought soft red tones to the dogwoods in the Victorian Garden, while gentle washes of color are appearing across the surrounding mountains. The more vibrant colors seem to be just ahead.
Best place to view:
Victorian Garden and Deck of the 101 Train Car.
Why visit this week:
This Saturday, Oct. 24, the park will offer the following programs:
12 p.m. A Creepy Cryptids Program - Join park rangers and volunteers in the museum’s Victorian parlor for a deep dive into some of southern Appalachia’s most intriguing legends and local mysteries, from Norton’s famous Woodbooger to the 1987 UFO sightings over Wytheville, Virginia. Discover the stories behind the myths. The truth is out there. This is a free program.
1 p.m. Discovering the Symbolism of Historic Gravestones - This educational and family-friendly program will explore some of the most common symbols found on historic gravestones and examine how their meanings have changed through the years. Participants will learn how to “read” these images and inscriptions as clues to the lives and beliefs of earlier generations. Discover what the old stones have been telling us all along. This is a free program.
5 p.m. Shadows of the Past: A Stroll Through Glencoe - Participants will join park rangers to explore and discover the stories of a few of the town’s past characters. We will learn about individuals who came to Southwest Virginia seeking a better life: business leaders and teachers, musicians and craftspeople and many others who have contributed to the close-knit community we share today. This is a free program.
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park has been basking in another beautiful week of weather, marked by warm, sun-filled days and crisp, comfortable evenings. A bit of mid-week rain passed through, but instead of dampening the mood, it brought a renewed brightness to the grounds. As temperatures dip at night, early signs of autumn are beginning to appear across the park. Dogwood trees in the Victorian Garden are among the first to show their subtle red hues, hinting at the colorful transformation ahead. Visitors can also notice gentle washes of fall color spreading across the surrounding mountains, offering a quiet preview of the vibrant foliage still on the way.
Best place to view:
Victorian Garden
Why visit this week:
The grounds of the museum are always beautiful to visit, but the weather this week is perfect for a stroll to reflect and reset.
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park has enjoyed a gorgeous stretch of weather again this week, with warm sunny days followed by refreshingly cool evenings. Although the park saw some rain this week, those showers only added a fresh sparkle to the landscape. The cooler nights are beginning to spark early fall color across the park, especially among the dogwood trees that brighten the Victorian Garden with their first hints of red. Visitors can also catch soft washes of seasonal color emerging along the surrounding mountains, offering a gentle preview of the vibrant foliage still to come.
Best place to view:
Take in the view from the Interstate 101 Car deck
Why visit this week:
The museum grounds are always beautiful, but this time of year is especially nice, with comfortable weather and early peaks at the fall foliage.
Visitors can enjoy our Quick Craft Holiday Keepsakes Workshop on Oct. 13, to spend a fun evening with our park staff and kick off the upcoming holiday season.
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park has enjoyed a gorgeous stretch of weather, with warm sunny days followed by refreshingly cool evenings. Those cooler nights are beginning to spark early fall color across the park, especially among the dogwood trees that brighten the Victorian Garden with their first hints of red. Visitors can also catch soft washes of seasonal color emerging along the surrounding mountains, offering a gentle preview of the vibrant foliage still to come.
Best place to view:
Take in the view from the Interstate 101 Car deck
Why visit this week:
The grounds of the museum are always beautiful to visit, but early fall is especially nice with the cool weather and beautiful color-shifting foliage.
The weather has been beautiful this past week, with warm to hot days and temperatures ranging from the 80s to mid-90s. The leaves haven’t begun to change much in these summer-like temps, but guests can still catch early hints of fall color on the surrounding mountains. We expect to see more signs of autumn emerge in the coming weeks as our nights cool and days shorten following the fall equinox.
Best place to view:
Take in the view from the Interstate 101 Car deck for this week’s best scenery.
Why visit this week:
Come volunteer for National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 1-4 p.m., when we'll be cleaning one of the museum's walls. This hands-on opportunity gives visitors a chance to give back to the park while contributing to the preservation of a historic landmark in the heart of Appalachia.
