This scenic West Virginia county enjoys three full months of fall foliage color

HINTON, W.Va. — Halfway along the Appalachian range from north to south, West Virginia enjoys one of the longest and most colorful fall foliage seasons in the U.S.

But, as a result of its geography, one West Virginia county in particular boasts what may be the longest leaf change in the region.

Renowned for its state and national parks, enjoying the autumn is easy in Summers County—perhaps a lesser-known county in terms of name recognition, but arguably one of the state's most beautiful. What's more, national park rangers are often on hand to interpret and direct visitors, and friendly locals are always ready to share their lore and their legends, as well as information about special local places.

Summers County, says Candice Lee Helms, a transplant and executive director of Explore Summers County, is where it's at, as far as the fall goes. Originally from Texas, she says she was astonished by the seasonal changes in West Virginia and especially by the celebration of autumn in Summers County.

"I'd never seen anything like it before," Helms said. "Not only does fall last for a full three months here, but the people really get into it. Pumpkins and scarecrows are everywhere!"

In southern West Virginia, Summers is uniquely positioned where the world-renowned New River crosses the lofty Allegheny Front. As a consequence, temperatures in the valley along the New River can remain remarkably warm, while those in the mountains along the front (more than 2,600 feet above) can be downright cold, even snowy.

Here are three reasons that Summers County is ideal for a West Virginia fall foliage vacation—or two or three vacations, given the length of the season.

Length of fall foliage season

Beginning in early September and lasting well into November, the leaf-change in Summers County lasts far longer than the three months meteorologists usually designate as autumn. Leaves begin losing their green chlorophyll as early as late August in some areas, and by late September, the highland peaks are ablaze with reds and oranges, while the valley areas won't begin to become fully involved until late October.

The Highlands / Autumn first appears along the crests of its highest mountains. Freezeland Mountain, at more than 3,300 feet above sea level, is famous for its expansive views to the east and south. Keeney Knob, at more than 3,900 feet above sea level, is the highest point in Summers County, though it is difficult to reach without a high-clearance vehicle. Great Flat Top Mountain is another well-known highland on which the Winterplace ski resort is located.

The Tablelands / Much of Summers County, including many of its most beautiful farms, is located on upland benches and tablelands—below the highest peaks but above the level of its rivers. One of the best-known tableland destinations is at Pipestem Resort State Park, which features several restaurants and two hotels, one of which may be reached only by an aerial tramway to the bottom of the gorge, 26 fully equipped wood cabins, a regular and a par-3 golf course.

The Valleys / Three remarkably scenic rivers converge in the heart of Summers County. Deep in their valleys, they hold on to the summer as long as possible. Thus, leaf peepers are more likely to find color there longer in the season, long after cold winds have reduced color in the highlands to bare grays and browns.

• The New River, centerpiece of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, runs south to north through the county. By the time it enters the county near the state border with Virginia, the river has traveled more than 150 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains and is sufficiently warm and strong, though in many ways it appears a mountain river. WV-20 and the New River Parkway both follow the river between Hinton and the Sandstone-Sandstone Falls areas.
• The Bluestone River, part of which is also managed by the National Park Service as the Bluestone National Scenic River, features large stretches of isolated forest areas in its gorge. The aerial tram at Pipestem carries visitors in and out of the gorge, and a trail along the river connects Pipestem with Bluestone State Park at the mouth of the river on the New River. Much of the Bluestone is inaccessible to motor vehicles, though it can be enjoyed at Bluestone State Park at a national park river access area at Lilly.
• The Greenbrier River, often referred to as the grand dame of West Virginia rivers, joins the New River at Hinton after a free-flowing descent from the peaks of the Allegheny Mountains to the northeast. It's one of the last undammed rivers in Appalachia, and it's thus judged to be especially important and biologically superior. It's a favorite river for wading after the spring when the water is low. WV-3 follows the Greenbrier east from Hinton.

Parklands Aplenty

By some estimates, as much as 20 percent of Summers County is protected as part of a state park, a national park, or a state wildlife management area. This means there are plenty of areas in which to hike, bike, and drive unencumbered on public lands. It also means that much of the county's scenic beauty is protected.

The scenic drives through Summers County are truly remarkable, according to new resident Vera Nazaroff, who recently moved from California to the county seat at Hinton. Since arriving, she's spent much of her time on the road, discovering the joy of the region's many seasons.

"I'm enchanted by all the colors in West Virginia and by all the seasons," Nazaroff said. "Sometimes it brings me to tears, the beauty is so overwhelming."

One of her favorite drives follows the New River Road through the national park between Hinton and Sandstone Falls. Another ascends True Road from the river to Pipestem State Park, following the crest of Tallery Mountain.

Most parklands in Summers County follow the rivers and ascend into the adjacent tablelands and benches. Some highland peak areas are also in the parks, but are in backcountry regions accessible only to the most intrepid hikers and hunters.

Bluestone State Park

In autumn, Bluestone State Park becomes a quiet retreat framed by rolling hills painted in shades of gold, crimson, and amber. Along the shores of Bluestone Lake, the park offers a peaceful setting for hiking, boating, or simply sitting along the water’s edge to watch the reflection of fall foliage ripple across the surface.

Crisp mountain air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore the park’s trails, where each bend reveals sweeping views of the Appalachian landscape in its brightest seasonal colors.

Whether you’re camping under the stars, fishing in the lake, or enjoying a picnic surrounded by brilliant maples and oaks, Bluestone State Park captures the essence of a West Virginia autumn—calm, colorful, and restorative.

Pipestem Resort State Park

Pipestem Resort State Park is one of the best places in West Virginia to experience autumn’s full spectacle. Perched high on the Bluestone River Gorge, the park offers breathtaking overlooks where waves of red, orange, and yellow spill across the ridges as far as the eye can see.

Crisp fall days are perfect for hiking the park’s extensive trail system, riding the aerial tramway down into the gorge, or teeing off on the golf course surrounded by fiery foliage.

Wildlife is especially active this time of year, adding to the sense of being immersed in the rhythms of the season. Pipestem in autumn combines the vibrant beauty of the Appalachian landscape with the park’s signature mix of adventure and relaxation.

Bluestone National Scenic River

In autumn, the Bluestone National Scenic River transforms into a quiet corridor of color and calm. Flowing between steep, forested hillsides, the river is framed by maples, oaks, and hickories that blaze with gold and crimson before dropping their leaves into the water.

Accessible by footpaths like the Bluestone Turnpike Trail, the area offers a sense of solitude that feels worlds away from busier parks, with the sound of the river mingling with rustling leaves and migrating songbirds. The scenic river protects one of the most remote reaches in the county, practically inaccessible by motor vehicle.

Hikers, anglers, and nature lovers find autumn an especially rewarding time to visit, when cooler temperatures and brilliant scenery make every bend in the river feel like a hidden discovery in the heart of Appalachia.

Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management Area

Visiting Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management Area during the autumn is a breathtaking experience, as the forested hillsides transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. The crisp air and gentle rustle of leaves underfoot make it an ideal time for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

The lake itself reflects the fiery foliage, creating picturesque scenes at every turn. However, visitors should exercise caution during hunting season, which typically runs through parts of the fall. Wearing bright, highly visible clothing, staying on designated trails, and being aware of posted hunting schedules are essential for safety.

With proper precautions, a fall trip to Bluestone Lake offers both serene natural beauty and the thrill of observing wildlife in its autumn habitat.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Visiting the southern section of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve during the autumn is a spectacular experience, as the rolling hills and rugged cliffs burst into shades of red, gold, and orange.

This area offers scenic highlights like Sandstone Falls, where the cascading waters provide a dramatic backdrop against the fall foliage, and Brooks Falls, a serene spot perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

Numerous trails wind through the southern park, ranging from gentle walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the crisp autumn air and observe local wildlife.

However, during hunting season, extra caution is essential—wearing bright clothing, staying on marked trails, and checking posted hunting notices will help ensure a safe visit. With these precautions, the southern New River Gorge becomes a breathtaking destination for fall adventurers.

For more information on touring Summers County in autumn, visit Explore Summers County.

Map showing northern and southern sections of the New River Gorge.