Best places to see fall color in West Virginia this week

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — The West Virginia Department of Tourism has released its first leaf peeping itinerary of the year, highlighting places in West Virginia’s higher elevations.

With leaves already beginning to change color, West Virginia Tourism said in a press release that counties like Tucker, Randolph and Upshur are expected to hit peak fall color in the next two weeks.

“I’m thrilled to see that spectacular autumn color is starting to pop in the highest elevations of the state,” West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby said in the release. “Leave the stress of trip planning behind and let our fall itineraries be your guide to experiencing one-of-a-kind adventure surrounded by stunning foliage. We’re excited for what is expected to be the best fall in decades.”

Over the next few weeks, West Virginia Tourism predicts that these will be some of the best places and experiences for fall foliage viewing in the state.

• Blackwater Falls State Park
• Tygart Flyer train ride from Elkins Depot
• Audra State Park

While in the Elkins-Buckhannon areas, WV Tourism recommends stopping by the West Virginia Railroad Museum, browsing downtown shops and restaurants in Elkins, and stopping by Fish Hawk Acres for lunch in Buckhannon.