Autumn is in full swing here with lots of that great fall color everywhere you look. In fact, I would say we are right in the middle of peak! The rusty reds of the Dogwoods and the yellows of the Tulip Poplar stand out among the slower-turning Oaks and Maples, although they are beginning to change as well. Sumac and Sourwood are displaying their reds. The Virginia Creeper vine is fading from its brightest reds, but still has a lot of color as it meanders over the rocks.
Don’t forget about the fall flowers in the Parkway meadows. You’ll see Coreopsis, Black-Eyed Susan, Queen Anne’s Lace, Butterfly Weed, Joe Pye Weed, and Cornflower. These late summer blooms contribute to the myriad colors of the fall.
Keep in mind that the best way to experience Virginia’s fall foliage is to cover some territory. Many people visit just one place on one particular day, and are disappointed that the foliage isn’t as spectacular as they had hoped. Lots of factors determine when a particular stand of trees will change, including elevation, which side of the slope they are one, and what variety they are. This means that even within one particular area, you’ll find lots of variety as different sections are at different stages.
So come on out to the mountains. Spend some time driving, then park and take one of our many Virginia hiking trails. If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, there are even some off-road jeep trails that we can point you to, and if horseback riding is your transportation of choice, several local stables offer great trail rides with wonderful mountain views.