When is the best time to see fall foliage in Virginia?

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Fall is quickly approaching, soon bringing the return of the trees’ golden autumnal hues in the Commonwealth. But when is the best time to see the fall foliage?

When does fall start and why do we see the trees change color?

Fall begins on Sunday, Sept. 22, but generally, peak fall foliage doesn’t begin until sometime between Oct. 10 and Oct. 31, according to the Department of Conservation and Recreation. This variation is based on factors like temperature and rainfall.

According to the Department of Forestry , the change in color that we see is due to the slowing and eventual stop of trees’ cells production of chlorophyll, which makes leaves appear green. Without those green hues, carotenoids, which are always present inside leaves’ cells, are revealed.

Adding to these golden and reddish hues is the red anthocyanins in leaf cells that autumn’s bright light and excess plant sugars brings.

When is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Virginia?

Although there may be some variation, here are the estimated times where each region can expect to see peak fall foliage in Virginia, according to the Department of Conservation and Recreation :

1. Early October: Valley and Ridge, as well as parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains
2. Early to mid-October: Most of the Blue Ridge Mountains
3. Early to mid-October: Appalachian Plateau
4. Mid-October: Piedmont
5. Mid to late October: Tidewater

For more detailed information on the Commonwealth’s fall foliage, keep an eye out for the Department of Forestry’s Weekly Fall Foliage Report . The first report is expected sometime in September.

Which locations may be among the best to view the foliage?

Whether you’re looking for a road trip or just want to head to your local park, here’s a few places that may be among the best spots to view the fall foliage.

• Shenandoah National Park : Situated along the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors can hike its trail system or drive leisurely along Skyline Drive and stop along various scenic view points for a view of the mountain rage.
• Great Falls Park : Located only 15 miles from D.C. in northern Fairfax County, Great Falls offers 15 miles of hiking trails near and alongside the rushing Potomac River, with many viewpoints of the water and the foliage along the tops of cliffs.
• Virginia State Parks : With 43 state parks throughout Virginia, visitors are sure to find a spot that piques their interest.

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