Taking a fall foliage road trip in Virginia may seem like a tall order. After all, there are so many road-trip-worthy destinations to see in the autumn. Fortunately, we've got you covered.
With a bounty of beautiful foliage, fall is perhaps the season where Virginia shines the brightest. The crisp autumn air is an invitation to get outside, hop in the car, and meander down roads where the trees are beginning to explode into their colors. Luckily for us in Virginia, these leaves can be enjoyed in nearly every corner of the state. This particular trip centers around the Blue Ridge Mountains, whose altitude produces some of the best fall colors in Virginia. Here's a road trip for you to make the most of the season. The duration of the trip -- here's the customizable Google Map -- is approximately nine hours, so be sure to schedule plenty of time to make the most out of each stop.
1. Crabtree Falls (Montebello)
Beautiful all year round, Crabtree Falls is especially breathtaking during the fall. Whether you have time to hike up the falls or simply want to admire from the base, you'll be in for an incredible array of fall colors in Virginia. The waterfall itself is considered to be the largest of its kind east of the Mississippi River, and the well-marked trail will take you approximately three miles.
2. Lexington
After your trek to Crabtree, you'll love taking a breather in Lexington, the quintessential autumn small town with exquisite tree-lined roads. Here, you can explore the breathtaking campuses of Washington & Lee and the Virginia Military Institute. You'll find plenty of things to do in the fall in Virginia, especially in Lexington. Be sure to grab a warm drink at one of the nearby coffee shops or bakeries on Main Street. Stroll through the quaint shops, or take in a double-feature at Hull's Drive-In.
3. Mountain Lake (Blacksburg)
The third stop along this trip to see the best fall colors in Virginia will take you to another college town, although the destination here is the drive itself. Mountain Lake Road, as photographed above, offers incredible vistas of the mountains and changing leaves. This road will continue to Mountain Lake Resort, a beautiful mountain lodge which is actually where Dirty Dancing was filmed. If you're looking for a place to stay the night, it doesn't get much cozier than here.
4. Mabry Mill (Meadows of Dan)
It's no secret why Mabry Mill is one of the most photographed sites in Virginia. It's the very picture of the gentle and pastoral landscape, and it just so happens to transform into one of the best places to see the fall foliage in Virginia. While you're here, you can learn about the fascinating history behind the Mill and enjoy a meal from the fine gristmill restaurant. For a fascinating historic overview of Mabry Mill, be sure to watch the brief video below:
5. High Bridge Trail State Park (near Farmville)
High Bridge Trail State Park is another natural area that explodes into color in autumn. One of the best advantages of this trail is the height. For miles, you can peer out to the beautiful yellows and oranges of the trees below as they surround the Potomac River. The bridge itself is 2,400 feet long and is part of an extensive 31-mile trail. It'll be the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air after the drive. Catch a glimpse of what makes High Bridge Trail State Park such a spectacular destination:
6. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Last but not least, we arrive at the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. For miles, these backroads wind through the mountains and offer some of the loveliest views in the entire state. One of the most wonderful things about the Parkway is the opportunity to pull off at an overlook and truly take in the panoramas of the best fall foliage in Virginia. Also nearby is Shenandoah National Park, offering plenty of hiking excursions perfect for the fall season. Catch a glimpse of some Blue Ridge Parkway magic in the stunning drone footage below:
With plenty of bed & breakfasts along the way, this road trip to the best fall foliage in Virginia could make a wonderful weekend trip. There's truly no wrong way to enjoy all that this fall season has to offer, so even if you can only make a few stops, the drive will provide plenty of memorable foliage. Enjoy the drive, and let us know what you think!
Before hitting the road, be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing list for all the essentials you'll need along the way!
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