5 Leaf-Peeping Road Trips In Virginia: When Foliage Peaks

VIRGINIA — Fall foliage colors are patchy in much of Virginia, although trees planted specifically to showcase their colors in urban areas are flashing brilliance this week, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry.

Virginia's fall colors generally peak sometime between Oct. 10 and Oct. 31; however, these dates can vary from year to year, based on factors such as temperature and rainfall, the VDF said. Here's what its weekly fall foliage report said:

• Colors are patchy along the Blue Ridge, with many spots still green. Unfortunately, there are also patches of brown trees, particularly along ridgelines. These are a result of drought stress and, in some areas, insect defoliation earlier this year.
• Central Virginia is sporting green to faded yellow foliage, with some nice patches of red and orange here and there. In eastern Virginia, wet areas such as swamps and riversides show bright flashes of red maple and multi-colored sweetgum.
• In urban areas, fall color may have already arrived right outside your window. Many city trees are planted for their spectacular autumn show, and typical city conditions can speed up the changes spurred by a hot, dry summer.

The 2023 Fall Foliage Prediction Map indicates leaves will peak the week of Oct. 23 to 30.

The predictive map, from the travel site Smokymountains.com, uses a refined data model based on historical and forecast temperatures and precipitation, the types of trees prominent in specific geographic areas, and real-time user reports.

The map is easy to use. The slider at the bottom resets weekly to include the latest data. To see when leaves are expected to peak, move the slider to the right. Leaves haven’t started changing yet in green areas, and the brown color means foliage has passed its peak.

As with any meteorological forecast dependent upon weather variables, leaf predictions aren’t always 100 percent accurate, but the map does give Maryland leaf-peepers a pretty good shot at seeing autumn leaves when they turn their most blazing reds, vibrant orange and sunny yellows.

For people planning to travel, the site curated a list of the best places to see fall foliage in every state.

Here are five or more Virginia fall leaf-peeping road trips:

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park features beautiful fall scenery across its entire landscape. Bold autumn hues await your arrival in the wooded hollows, fields of wildflowers, and all around the scenic vistas. For the best fall views, visit Old Rag Mountain to see the tree canopies create a quilt of color. Don't miss the Big Meadows either to find fall blooms and watch the tall grasses change their hues.

Whitetop Mountain

With a trip up to the summit of Whitetop Mountain, you can gaze in wonder at the colorful grasses, shrubs, and trees. If you go early in the season, you can also enjoy the wondrous calls of songbirds, including black-throated green warbler and dark-eyed junco. All it takes to get there is a leisurely drive up the gravel road right off State Route 600, near the Tennessee border. Once you reach the top, there's nothing between you and the patchwork of reds, oranges, and golds as far as the eye can see.

Potomac Heritage Trail

Looking to stay closer to D.C., the Potomac Heritage Trail lets you meander along the riverside at your leisure. Whether you choose to hike or ride your bike, you can stay on the main trail to follow the Potomac River's journey. Or you can opt for the side trails to loop through the forests full of tulip poplars, sycamores, and oak trees. The views are perhaps even more impressive right on the Potomac River, so don't hesitate to bring down your canoe or kayak.

The Virginia Department of Forestry's recommended fall foliage driving tours designed by local foresters include:

• Charlottesville Area - Greene County
• Harrisonburg Area - Rockingham County
• Harrisonburg Area - Shenandoah County
• Lexington Area - Bath County
• Front Royal Area - Warren County
• Roanoke Area - Bedford County
• Roanoke Area - Craig County
• Roanoke Area - Franklin County
• Staunton Area - Highland County