Enjoy autumn in the Mountain State with vibrant foliage, waterfall hikes, and cozy stays
Fall colors in West Virginia. (Photo: West Virginia Department of Tourism)
Published September 17, 2026 10:20AM
As autumn sweeps through the gorges, mountains, and valleys of West Virginia, the state’s “Almost Heaven” slogan seems like an understatement. Suddenly, there’s very little “almost” about it. With a kaleidoscope of foliage marching over the rolling hills and complementing the deep greens of the pines, fall in the Mountain State is something to behold. Here’s where—and how—to see the show across West Virginia’s State Parks.
Go Chasing Waterfalls
With more than 40 waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, visiting one (or several) is a great way to experience the serenity of the season. Each one offers something different, along with the best kinds of similarities—cascading water, stunning foliage, and the feeling of full immersion in nature. See them all, check in, and earn prizes with the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.
Enjoy Cabin Comfort
There’s no better way to end an autumn day than by returning to a forest cabin. And in West Virginia, you hardly even need to leave the trail to find your home away from home—more than 20 state parks have cabin rentals available.
One of the best places to lay your head come fall is the scenic Blackwater Falls State Park. There, a day of hiking, biking, or fishing can end at one of 39 fully furnished cabins. Or, for a completely unique cabin experience, head to Coopers Rock State Forest, where you’ll find five stargazing cabins equipped with skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows that let you take in the night sky while enjoying the comforts of home.
Get a Bird’s Eye View
One of the best ways to experience West Virginia’s colorful fall forests? From above. There are several places to enjoy sweeping mountain views across the state, including the scenic chairlift ride at Canaan Valley Resort State Park and the Aerial Tram at Pipestem Resort State Park. At Pipestem, you even have the unique opportunity to travel over the rim of the Bluestone Gorge and down to the Bluestone River, enjoying the view as you sink into the scenery.
Always Stop For a Swing
As you explore the Mountain State, keep your eyes peeled for West Virginia’s iconic Almost Heaven swings. With more than 50 spread across some of the most scenic state parks, towns, and points of interest in the state, you’re bound to find a spot to pull over, stretch your legs, and commemorate a fall trip done right.
