Fall Foliage in Virginia

Fall in Virginia is one of the most beautiful times of year, and traveling throughout the Commonwealth during this season can reveal an abundance of color. Virginia’s expansive woodlands, famously blue-tinged mountains, and rambling scenic byways are the place to be when fall leaves are at their fiery peak.

Virginia's diverse landscape, from the highest mountains to the Eastern Shore, provides a long fall foliage season, starting earliest in the higher elevations and moving eastward. Generally peak fall foliage is sometime between October 10 and October 31; however, dates can vary from year to year. Want to know when and where to see the best fall colors in Virginia this autumn? View our fall foliage guide below.

Fall Foliage Outlook in Virginia

Fall Foliage Report

Fall has arrived early in Virginia, and our forests are showing it. Thanks to late-summer dryness, colors are popping sooner than usual, with reds already brightening western and central Virginia. If you’re planning a leaf-peeping trip, aim for the early side of the season’s peak dates.

Virginia’s mix of tree species creates a long, colorful season. This week, mountain areas and north-Central Virginia feature splashes of yellow and red—yellow-poplar, sassafras, dogwood, and early maples are leading the show. Higher elevations in the Blue Ridge and Alleghenies are already 10–25% changed, while Eastern Virginia is just beginning to dull from summer green.

Don’t miss the roadside and field edges, where fall wildflowers add brilliant yellow, white, and purple to the landscape.

Sign up now for email updates to be in the loop!

Get Weekly Foliage Updates