As summer draws to a close and we enter a season of vibrant beauty in the Shenandoah Valley, the fall foliage season is the perfect time to get outside and explore our beautiful region. While planning your autumnal excursions, be sure to check out a fall foliage guide, such as this one, to ensure you see some vivid colors! Below are different places to visit and festivals to attend to make the most of this beautiful season.

Parks, Gardens, and Trails

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is home to Skyline Drive, which starts in Front Royal, VA, as well as hiking trails such as Stony Man. This is a great place to take in breathtaking fall foliage views. Keep an eye on road closures on Skyline Drive, as they can happen on occasion.

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Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

Stroll through the museum's gardens with a backdrop of colorful fall foliage.

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Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve

Enjoy a peaceful walk and observe wildlife amidst beautiful fall colors.

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Bear's Den Overlook

A short hike to panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley is especially spectacular during the fall.

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Sky Meadows State Park

This park offers rolling hills and vibrant foliage, ideal for hiking and photography.

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Blandy Experimental Farm

The Virginia State Arboretum, at Blandy Experimental Farm, has many winding paths through gardens and wooded spaces. Keep an eye out for the changing leaves.

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Cedar Creek & Belle Grove Plantation

This beautiful park includes the Belle Grove Plantation house and wonderful views of the verdant valley, which is sure to shine when the leaves change.

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Orchards, Wineries, Festivals

There are many wonderful wineries in our region that are perfect for enjoying a glass of a local vintner, such as Valerie Hill Winery, Fox Meadow Winery, Star in the Hill Winery, and Naked Mountain Winery, while taking in the picturesque views.

Marker-Miller Orchards

This nearby orchard holds an Apple Festival on 10/12 and a Pumpkin Festival on 10/26. This orchard provides the quintessential fall backdrop all autumn long.

Shenandoah Heritage Festival

In Page County, the Shenandoah Heritage Festival will take place on 10/12-10/13. There is a wide variety of activities, demonstrations, food, and entertainment, perfect for an autumnal day.

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Safety Tips

• It’s important to remember that as you travel to higher elevations, the temperatures will likely drop, so be prepared to keep warm.
• Nearby mountain towns may have spotty phone signal, so download or print maps.
• Be sure to wear proper footwear if you plan togo on a hike or go anywhere that requires substantial walking.

We live in a gorgeous region of the country, made even more beautiful by the changing of the leaves. Don’t waste an opportunity to take in the scenic sights while they last!

At Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury, we are proud of our region and enjoy outings to explore all that the Valley has to offer. To learn about our community’s connection to the world around us and our commitment to supporting your passions, click here to schedule a tour.