Where to See Fall Foliage
System - Tuesday, October 13, 2015
The leaves will be reaching their peak color over the next few weeks, and there are plenty of amazing day trips you can take to see the beauty of fall foliage either in Northern Virginia or a short drive away.
If you want to get away from Northern Virginia, you can head to the mountains, and explore the Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park, and in my opinion is one of the most beautiful fall drives in Virginia. There are scenic overlooks where you can park, or if you’re feeling energetic, you can park and hike along any of the numerous trails throughout the park. If you continue further west to Winchester, you can visit the Marker-Miller Orchards and pick your own apples, pumpkins, or squash. There’s also a Kiddie Land playground, wagon rides on weekends, and a market where you can buy fresh baked goods, jams, jellies, and fresh made sweets.
If you don’t want to drive quite so far, you can visit George Washington’s Ferry Farm in Stafford County, VA. Ferry Farm is the site where George Washington lived as a child. The grounds are approximately 80 acres, and visitors can see the site where the Washington house stood overlooking the Rappahannock River. There are gardens that feature plants grown in the 18th century, and hiking trails. On October 31, the Hartwood Winery, also in Stafford, has its annual Harvest Festival. You can sample the harvested fruits of the vine, enjoy hayrides, scarecrow-making, games, pony rides, live music, tours, food and more! Adults have to pay admission, but kids are free.
You can also enjoy the fall foliage without leaving Northern Virginia. Take a ride along the George Washington Parkway. You can park and hike or bike on the trail that runs next to the Potomac River. You can visit George Washington’s Mt. Vernon on the south end or you can head north and visit the shops and restaurants in Old Town Alexandria.
Another great spot to see fall colors is Great Falls National Park in Mclean, VA. The waterfall itself is impressive, and add the beauty of the changing leaves and it’s a site that shouldn’t be missed. Great Falls Park is 800 acres with hiking trails and a Visitor’s Center with exhibits on the history of the area.
There are limitless other options on where you can go to see fall colors. These are just a few suggestions. Wherever you end up, have a wonderful time!
