The Shenandoah Valley foliage transforms spectacularly each autumn, making the area a must-visit destination for leaf-peepers. Due to changes in altitude, colors on the mountains progress downhill and especially shine when viewed from above. Drives and hikes along Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway reach high vistas and offer great perspectives of the blankets of color. Here’s how to witness the best fall foliage around as you explore hikes along two of our country’s most beautiful roads.
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive bisects Shenandoah National Park, hugging the ridgeline for 105 miles, and is beloved by nature enthusiasts, especially at peak leaf-peeping season. The speed limit is only 35 mph, so take your time ogling the endless panoramic views with zones of color spreading out below. More than 75 overlooks and trailheads offer chances to explore, and if you’re lucky, you’ll glimpse native wildlife along with popping colors.
Spots of Interest
Compton Peak / Milepost 10.4
Park at the Compton Peak parking area to access a moderate and uncrowded 2.4-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail. This family-friendly stroll has big summit views to both the east and west. Along the trail, you’ll pass a unique geological formation called columnar jointing, formed when igneous rock fractures into prismatic shapes.
Near the northern entrance to SNP, Front Royal’s Chester Gap Cellars, Glen Manor Vineyards, Saga Meadery, and Honey Hops and Brew Works offer several ways to savor local libations. If you have time, take a free tour of the Virginia Beer Museum.
Bearfence Mountain / Milepost 56.4
Get a quick breakfast at Mr. J’s Elkton Express before heading up to Skyline Drive. The Bearfence Mountain trail is only 1.4 miles long, but it’s steep, and you’ll soon be out of breath as you scramble and crawl over the rocks. A long-ranging panoramic view of the Virginia Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley awaits you at the top.
If you’re looking for more active fun, spend some time splashing at Massanutten Indoor Waterpark or riding Massanutten Resort’s exhilarating new attraction, Mountain Mayhem fun coaster. Follow up with a visit to Elkton Brewing Co. for a beer and pizza from Woodfired Co – Pizza Truck. And make sure to bring fall colors home with a stop at East Point Farms Pumpkin Patch, which specializes in pumpkins, fall flowers, and homemade ice cream.
Hightop Mountain Trail Milepost 66.5
The moderate and well-marked Hightop Mountain Trail leads through the forest and summits on the highest peak in the South District of SNP, showcasing the beauty of fall along the Appalachian Trail. The trail ascends gradually, offering glimpses of fiery autumn foliage framed by large boulder pileups. Along the ridgeline, pause at several lookout points. The final view opens up to breathtaking 180-degree vistas of the south and west. After your hike, stop at Swift Run Overlook, which gazes to the north and gives a lovely view of Massanutten Mountain and the Valley spread below.
Walkabout Outfitter in downtown Harrisonburg can set you up with any equipment or supplies, and you can pick up gourmet sandwiches from Lola’s Delicatessen for lunch on the trail.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway connects seamlessly with the southern end of Skyline Drive, continuing the journey for 469 miles to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This road has been one of America’s most popular for 90 years. Along with stunning views, it offers regular places to pull over and scope out more views and hiking trails.
Spots of Interest
Humpback Rocks / Milepost 5.8
Stop by Waynesboro’s the Matriarchists for some grab-and-go snacks and drinks before you head to Humpback Rocks. Spend some time exploring the historic farm exhibit before tackling the trail. The hike is short (just 1 mile), but the 700-foot climb is strenuous. All that work pays off when you get to the rocks and encounter a spectacular view of the Rockfish and Shenandoah Valleys.
A 15-minute drive will take you back to Waynesboro’s Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace. You can score a beer, a delicious lunch, and play some arcade games at Basic City Beer Co., do a local wine tasting at Common Wealth Crush, get a coffee and some tasty breakfast sandwiches at Happ Coffee Roasters, and catch a live show at the Foundry. If you have time, check out Waynesboro’s new Sunset Park to admire the setting sun against the seasonal colors.
Ravens Roost Overlook / Milepost 10.7
Ravens Roost Overlook looks out onto Torrey Ridge and the Shenandoah Valley to the west. This spot is a favorite for both sunset-seeking photographers and nature lovers, especially in the fall. From the overlook, take the short path to a broad rock ledge, which is a typical raven’s roost.
After your visit to the overlook, make sure to sample the local craft beer at Stable Craft Brewing and The Alpine Goat Brewery, both stops along the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail with views of the mountains. You can also score local snacks at the Valley Pike Farm Market.
Punchbowl Mountain Overlook to Bluff Mountain via the AT / Milepost 51.7
Grab a deli lunch at Natty B Cafe and General Store in Natural Bridge before heading up to the Parkway. At the Punchbowl Mountain Overlook, cross the road and hike south on the Appalachian Trail. The panoramic views are especially beautiful in fall. You’ll pass both the Punchbowl and Jenkins trail shelters and perhaps get a chance to chat with AT through hikers. After 1.8 miles, you’ll reach a marker for The Tragedy of Little Ottie Cline Powell at Bluff Mountain. Powell, a 5-year-old, perished alone on the mountain in 1891. The marker notes where he was found. Continue hiking on the AT, or retrace your steps to your car.
Make a day of it by walking under the massive limestone bridge at Natural Bridge State Park or feeding the animals at Virginia Safari Park. Thirsty? Sip craft beer, wine, or cider at Great Valley Farm Brewery or Halcyon Days Cider Co.
Whether you’re leaf-peeping on a beautiful trail in Shenandoah National Park or enjoying the show over a picnic at a charming Blue Ridge Parkway overlook, the Shenandoah Valley’s autumnal display is memorable. Don’t miss the chance to soak up nature’s most vibrant colors. Plan your visit today!
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