2024 Fall Foliage Report for Virginia
Welcome to the 2024 Fall Foliage Report for Virginia! As we step into October, the beautiful transformation of our lush green landscapes into vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange is starting to appear. Though the fall foliage season is getting off to a slow start this year, we’re beginning to see early signs of color in the mountains, as well as in central and northern parts of the state.
Early Signs of Color
In the higher elevations, such as the Blue Ridge Mountains, yellow and red tones are emerging. These areas typically see the first signs of fall thanks to their cooler temperatures and higher altitudes. While much of the landscape remains green, the gradual appearance of fall colors is becoming noticeable. In contrast, the coastal areas are still largely green, with just a few red tones starting to pop up. Along the coastal plains, grasses are also in bloom and going to seed, offering their own seasonal charm.
Even with the delayed start to this year’s fall foliage, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply picnicking, this is the perfect time to experience the great outdoors while watching the landscape change around you.
A Long Foliage Season in Virginia
I was born and raised in Virginia and have lived here for the majority of my life. Growing up, our family had a yearly tradition of heading to the mountains to watch the leaves change. My father would always comment on how the weather played a part in the colors—whether it was too dry, too wet, too cold, or too warm. If the leaves weren’t as vivid as usual, he’d always point out what might have caused it that year. It’s funny how those little details stick with you, and even now, I notice how the yearly weather patterns affect the fall colors.
One of the great things about Virginia is its varied elevation, which offers a long and diverse fall foliage season. Higher elevations, particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountains and other mountain regions, usually see their peak colors first, around mid-October. As fall progresses, the foliage moves eastward, with the central parts of the state reaching peak color later in the month, followed by the coastal areas closer to the end of October and into early November.
Generally, fall colors peak between October 10 and October 31, though these dates can shift based on weather conditions like temperature and rainfall. This year’s warm start to fall may push back the peak slightly, but as cooler weather settles in, we can expect the colors to burst forth more vibrantly in the coming weeks.
Best Spots to View Fall Foliage in Virginia
Here are some great places across the state where you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn:
• Shenandoah National Park (Skyline Drive) – A classic destination for viewing fall foliage, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This area tends to peak earlier due to its elevation.
• Blue Ridge Parkway – Known for its scenic drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers an incredible array of fall colors, perfect for leisurely trips or extended weekends.
• George Washington and Jefferson National Forests – For those who prefer hiking through the fall colors, these forests provide plenty of trails to immerse yourself in the seasonal beauty.
• Peaks of Otter – Located in Bedford, this area features stunning fall colors against a backdrop of mountain views. It’s a favorite for those seeking out vibrant foliage and serene landscapes.
• Grayson Highlands – Known for its sweeping vistas, Grayson Highlands offers a beautiful display of autumn colors, making it a wonderful place for those who enjoy wide open spaces.
• Colonial Parkway – Running between Jamestown and Yorktown, Colonial Parkway offers a beautiful drive with fall colors on full display, particularly later in the season.
Virginia Fall Foliage Map for 2024
To help you make the most of your fall foliage adventure, here’s a general guide to when and where you can expect peak colors:
• Early October: Western mountains and higher elevations (Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Mountains)
• Mid-October: Central Virginia (Charlottesville, Richmond, and surrounding areas)
• Late October to Early November: Coastal and eastern Virginia (Williamsburg, Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach)
This year’s fall foliage season may have started a bit slow, but the colors are on their way! Whether you’re planning a weekend drive through the mountains or a leisurely afternoon closer to home, fall in Virginia offers plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty of the season.
Keep an eye on our weekly reports as we continue to track the foliage across the state, and be sure to get outdoors to enjoy the brilliant colors of autumn!
Fall Color Prediction Map:
You can visualize the progression of fall colors across Virginia with the map below, showing when and where to expect peak foliage this year. Happy leaf-peeping!