2024 Peak Fall Foliage Guide

Best Viewing Spots in Northern Virginia, West Virginia & Maryland.

We are located in the perfect location to see the fall beauty in a very wide radius. Our goal is to make it easier for you to locate when & where to go this year to see peak fall foliage all from one source. The guide we have made for you below will list estimates on peak foliage in Northern Virginia. It will also cover the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Additionally, it includes part of Maryland we have easy access to for a day trip.

Map from SmokyMountains.com featuring their interactive map. Click the photo to move the slider for estimates on peak fall foliage.

First, here is the Peak Fall Foliage Estimates

Based on the sources below, it looks like we will be seeing a great turn of colors. This will happen during the whole month of October. Mid-October is looking like the best time overall for most locations near us. To see the estimated live map click here for the entire united states map, click here for just the state of Virginia, click here for West Virginia, or find featured articles for each state below!

  • Northern Virginia: Estimates are showing mid or late October through the beginning of November. This period might be the best time to see peak foliage.
  • Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia: Some parts are expected to see peak foliage early to mid-October. This is mainly Hampshire County and West. Morgan, Berkley, and Jefferson counties are trending mid to late October. 
  • Maryland: Some reports say Frederick County, Maryland is estimated to see peak fall as early as the beginning of October. However, mid-October is most likely the best time to see the best range of colors. Washington County and Allegany County looking best in mid to late October.

2024 Fall Foliage Color Map: When is Peak Foliage? By Catherine Boeckmann

August 22, 2024

“Prepare for leaf-peeping season! When will the fall colors reach their peak? Find out with our 2024 fall foliage map! Plus, here’s a list of 21 great places to see autumn’s colors.” Read more here.

When & Where to Catch Fall Foliage By Stephanie Kenney

Fall is here, and Virginia’s got the best spots for vibrant colors! From mountain views to scenic drives, don’t miss out on the autumn magic. Plan Your Leaf Peeping and click here to read the full article.

Featured articles to find more individualized information on the fall foliage for each state:

  • Fall Foliage in Virginia by Virginia Department of Forestry – “Virginia is diverse in landscape, from the highest mountains to the Eastern Shore. The variety in landscape and elevation provides a long fall foliage season,” Read more.
  • WV Fall Foliage by WV Division of Forestry – “Colors Ablaze! As the late autumn evening sun sets lazily beyond the horizon, the trees’ blaze of color trumpet another successful season of life and living among the mountains of West Virginia. Housing some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the world, West Virginia fills with miles and miles of colorful splendor from late September to late October.” Read more
  • Maryland Fall Foliage Report – “Colors Ablaze! As the late autumn evening sun sets lazily beyond the horizon, the trees’ blaze of color trumpet another successful season of life and living among the mountains of West Virginia. Housing some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the world, West Virginia fills with miles and miles of colorful splendor from late September to late October.” Read more

Quick road trip guide:

1. Viewing Spots to Leaf You Speechless

Fall is finally here, and it’ll soon be time to take a look at the beautiful changing leaves! If you’re trying to get the best view of the fall foliage, use this guide to help you plan your trip! 🍂 Click here to find Best Spots for Fall Foliage

2. Scenic Fall Foliage Drives to Try in Virginia

“Whether you want to stay in NoVA or hop in the car and travel a little ways, we have some spots where you will love how the trees look.” By Renee Sklarew 

For The Traveler: Make plans to experience fall

Featuring articles with a focus on different locations in Virginia and West Virginia to make it more than a day trip but an experience with advice on where to stay overnight and places to eat.

1. These Towns Are the Peak of Fall Enjoyment

Experience the charm and beauty of Virginia’s mountain towns this fall. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, these quaint towns come alive with vibrant foliage, locally owned restaurants, and cozy cafes. Be sure to grab your jacket and hiking boots! Read more

2. Spend a Relaxing Fall Weekend at a West Virginia Airbnb 

See the fall colors change while enjoying nature just a few hours away.

By Alyssa Langer

“As temperatures begin dropping, leaves start falling, and days shorten, there’s arguably no better time than autumn to take a trip to nearby West Virginia. From caverns and camping to natural springs and spas, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy, especially as fall foliage approaches. Here are some interesting West Virginia airbnbs you may want to consider.” Read more.

Featured Listings with amazing fall foliage views

Above we referenced how our area is perfect for fall. Here are a few homes where you will find your dreamy views to watch leaves turn and enjoy every season that follows.

Log home with circle driveway
Mountain Estate in Paw Paw West Virginia

610 Pin Oak Road, Paw paw, WV, 25434

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of West Virginia, this extraordinary lodge boasts over 8,000 square feet of luxury living.

The grandeur begins at the entrance where an automatic gate framed by two majestic stone pillars gives you a glimpse of what is to come. The extra wide paved driveway, adorned with commercial streetlights, extends three-quarters of a mile leading to the log residence, the heart of the property. Spanning over 186 acres, you’ll find a harmonious blend of natural beauty and meticulously crafted features. Click here to discover more about this one-of-a-kind home.

Listed by Janeen Marconi | Price: $3,900,000 USD

Circa 1700 log house in Marshall Virginia

Listed by Susan Hensley

Welcome to the most PICTURESEQUE setting with circa 1700 log house I have ever had the pleasure to introduce! Recently accented with lovely additions, this PRISTINE property is set on 5.3 acres (with Invisible Pet Fencing on 2 ac.) of manicured lawn and wooded forest. This is a rare opportunity to find such a turnkey property, READY to ENJOY and unwind with a book or with many guests!  Click here to discover more.

Listed by Peter Leonard Morgan

If you’ve had visions of owning a beautiful, fully restored, historic Virginia fieldstone home, with its very own winery, vineyard and tasting room, look no further. Welcome to this cherished property and boutique winery, with a long history of award-winning wines and priceless views of the Shenandoah Valley. Set on 6.53 scenic acres, with a beautifully manicured vineyard, the original fieldstone house was built in 1893, subsequently operating as an inn for visitors from Washington DC… Click here to read more!

Historic home in Bluemont Virginia
Shotwell Farm an equestrian haven on 172 acres in Charles Town West Virginia

Listed by Morgan Martin Boyer & Janeen Marconi

Welcome to Shotwell Farm, an esteemed 172-acre equestrian haven distinguished as a landmark in Jefferson County. This magnificent estate seamlessly combines opulence and practicality. A picturesque tree lined driveway welcomes you to the heart of the farm, where an elegant Southern Living home takes center stage, surrounded by lush landscaping, expansive pastures, and panoramic views. Read more here.

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