You Must Visit These 14 Awesome Places in West Virginia This Fall

When I envision fall in West Virginia, I immediately think of the mountains changing colors. But fall in the Mountain State is more than just foliage—it's the crispness in the air paired with an abundance of pumpkins, sunflowers, and small-town charm. Fall might just be West Virginia's best time of year, although you could certainly argue that each season has its charms. But if you're eager to get out there and embrace autumn, I've put together a list of unmissable things to do in West Virginia in the fall.

1. The Gauley River

Each fall, water from the Summersville Dam is released into the Gauley, making it one of the best white water rivers in the country. The river drops 650 feet over 26 miles and has more than 100 major rapids. Fall is a great time to visit the Gauley River if you’re a rafter. Read all about this outfitter and get excited to book your own river adventure!

2. Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch & Cornmaze in Inwood

Check out this pumpkin patch and corn maze! Open from the end of September through October, they have an intricate corn maze on a five-acre field and a ton of pumpkins, plus farm animals, hayrides, corn hole, and more. If you are looking for things to do in West Virginia in October, this is a good choice. Opening weekend is September 27th, 2025.

3. Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park is tucked away in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, and it's hard to imagine a more perfect setting for hiking or waterfall viewing. During the fall, the park takes on a whole new level of beauty. Learn more about this beautiful waterfall in West Virginia and why you should explore this famous West Virginia state park this fall!

4. Morgantown

What's fall without a healthy dose of college football? Cheer on the Mountaineers when they play at home in Morgantown this fall. There are so many fun, vibrant things to do in Morgantown, and it might just be our state's most charming college town.

5. Huntington

Of course, there are some other places to catch a great local game. Cheer on the Thundering Herd at a Marshall football game! Read all about planning your trip to the university in the charming city of Huntington.

6. Coopers Rock State Forest

Another great place to view fall's colors is Coopers Rock State Forest, near Bruceton Mills. This unusual forest is filled with plenty to see and do for the entire family! One of the most popular hikes in the park is Ravens Rock Trail, a moderately challenging 2.5-mile trek that leads to a breathtaking overlook.

7. The Pumpkin House in Kenova

An army of volunteers helps carve thousands of pumpkins for Kenova's famous pumpkin house each year in time for Halloween. It is quite a sight to see, and about 30,000 visitors come to visit annually. Read all about this unique fall tradition and when to visit.

8. Hawks Nest State Park

Hawks Nest State Park is one of the many places to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage that West Virginia has to offer. Learn how to get a bird's eye view of this stunning park. This 270-acre recreational area is brimming with adrenaline-pumping activities, including white-water rafting, jetboat rides, hiking trails, and more.

9. Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park, about 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge, is another fantastic place to admire autumn's colors. The famous Glade Creek Grist Mill makes for beautiful pictures at this park in Cliftop. Babcock State Park also offers some great lodging options for those looking for a quintessential cabin escape in West Virginia. Plus, there's a campground that's typically open through the end of October.

10. The New River Gorge Bridge

Fall—and specifically Bridge Day—is the best day to visit the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville. It's the only day of the year when it's legal to BASE jump off of it, and people come from all over to do just that, or to watch as others do. Bridge Day is typically in mid-October, and whether you plan to jump or just visit, be sure to read these unique facts about the bridge!

11. The Corn Maze at Cooper Family Farms of Milton

Get lost—in a corn maze, that is! Cooper Family Farms offers daytime and haunted corn maze fun every fall. You can also zip line above the maze. Find out for yourself why this is one of the best corn mazes in West Virginia!

12. Dolly Sods Wilderness

Dolly Sods Wilderness is 17,400 acres of protected wilderness famous for its open meadows, panoramic views, unique ecosystems, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Of course, it's one of the best viewing areas for fall foliage in West Virginia, and for that reason, it can get quite crowded this time of year. Your best bet? Visit early in the morning and preferably, on a weekday if it's possible.

13. Gritt's Farm in Buffalo

During the fall, Gritt's Farm in Buffalo opens for corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and play areas for kids. Find out why this is one of the best places to visit in West Virginia in fall! It's the quintessential fall farm experience, offering everything from giant pumpkins to apple cider donuts. This year's event runs between September 19th and November 1st, 2025.

14. Orr's Farm Market in Martinsburg

Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Orr's Farm Market in Martinsburg. From early September to the beginning of November, you can experience all the fall fun. You can even schedule bonfire hayrides for you and all your friends! You'll be excited to learn all you can do at this charming farm market. This year's pick-your-own pumpkin event begins on September 6th, 2025.

West Virginia is truly a magical place when the leaves change and the air cools enough for you to break out your favorite cozy sweater. Here are some of our favorite fall destinations in WV. If you are planning a fall colors road trip, check out our guide to road trip essentials. Lastly, you'll want to go ahead and book a few nights at this breathtaking Airbnb in Berkeley Springs, WV.

Feeling inspired to explore more of West Virginia this season? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.