2019 Fall Pocket Passport COLOR

Nature works her astounding magic every autumn in . As the third most forested state in America, our country roads are a sight to behold in the fall.

Lush forests come alive with vibrant hues of red, amber and gold. It’s these heavenly vistas that set the stage for a season of autumn adventure and cherished family moments.

Hear the sounds of leaves crunch under your feet and discover hidden waterfalls on an autumn hike. Or cast a line amid the fall color in a remote babbling brook.

Try new seasonal flavors at a family-owned restaurant or visit a local farm to pick your own fresh produce. Experience local culture in one of our charming small towns, or get a fresh perspective aboard a scenic train ride.

This autumn, check out from the daily grind and check in to one of our cozy cabins, vacation rentals, mountain lodges or quaint bed and breakfasts.

Peace and quiet, panoramic views and pumpkin spice await, all in the of Almost Heaven.

Read on for insider tips on where to find the best leaves, scenic drives, hidden gems and more. Also be sure to visit WVtourism.com/fall for a live leaf map with photos from around the state.

Table of contents

1 ...... INTRODUCTION

4...... LEAF GUIDE

8...... LEAF ELEVATION MAP

10...... FALL FOLIAGE

14...... FALL FLAVORS

22...... OUTDOOR RECREATION

26...... FAMILY FUN

30...... LEAF PEEPING FALL ROAD TRIPS

36...... FALL EVENTS & FESTIVALS

40..... FALL CHECKLIST

2 3 LEAF IDENTIFICATION

1" - 11/2" 3" - 5" WHITE ASH BLACK CHERRY Leaves: compound with 5 to 9 leaflets Leaves: lanceolate or pear-shaped Margins: finely toothed Margins: entire - 6" 2" 8" - 12" 8" Branching: opposite Bark: smooth and reddish brown with narrow horizontal lenticels on younger Bark: ashy gray, furrowed into close diamond- trees; bark has small, black, platy scales with shaped areas separated by narrow interlacing upturned edges on older trees ridges

1" - 21/2" YELLOW POPLAR BEECH Leaves: 4-lobed Leaves: elliptical shape Margins: smooth 21/2" - 6" 21/2" - Margins: remotely toothed with sharp, Bark: dark green and smooth with white incurved teeth spots on young trees; older specimens have Bark: thin, smooth and light blue-gray in interlacing bark with rounded ridges and ashy color fissures 4" - 6" diameter

1 1/2" - 2" BIRCH Leaves: egg-shaped with a wintergreen smell and fruit at base of twig 3" - 4 1/2"3" Margins: sharply toothed Bark: reddish brown to nearly black on young FIND ALL ELEVEN trees, brownish black on older trees LEAF SPECIES

5 LEAF IDENTIFICATION

4" - 5" RED OAK 2" - 4" WHITE OAK Margins: 7 to 11 toothed, bristle-tipped lobes Margins: rounded with 7 to 9 lobes extending evenly toward the midrib Bark: brown to nearly black and broken up 5" - 9" 5" - 8" into wide, flat-topped ridges (gray in color), Bark: light ashy gray, variable in separated by shallow fissures appearance, broken into small, vertically aligned blocks, scaly on the surface

SUGAR MAPLE, STATE TREE WHITE PINE Leaves: circular in outline with 5 Leaves: in bundles of fives, each with palmate lobes whitish lines 3" - 5" 3" Margins: smooth between lobes Bark: dark green and furrowed on young stems, while older trees have deep, closely Bark: gray and deeply furrowed, with long, fissured, rectangular blocks, irregular plates branches in a whorled arrangement 3" - 5" diameter

SYCAMORE HICKORY Leaves: 3 to 5 lobes with cupped petioles Leaves: compound with 3 to 9 leaflets,but normally 5 to 7, inversely egg shaped Margins: toothed - 22" 8" Bark: brownish, soon mottled by the Mockernut Bark: firm, shallow furrows exfoliation of the outer bark exposing Shagbark Bark: gray, breaks into long, thin creamy-white inner layers plates Pignut Bark: scaly, ragged surface 4" - 7" diameter

7 LEAF ELEVATION MAP HANCOCK Weirton 22 Together, West Virginia’s mountainous BROOKE topography and lush forests provide OHIO Wheeling opportunities for world-renowned leaf 40 470 70 Moundsville peeping and fall color. Higher elevations MARSHALL change color first. Use this map as you 250 explore destinations and plan your fall Berkeley Springs MONONGALIA 68 Morgantown mountain escape. WETZEL MORGAN Fairmont 9 Martinsburg PRESTON 28 522 MARION 119 TYLER BERKELEY Visit WVtourism.com/fall for a live leaf Keyser Harpers Ferry Aurora PLEASANTS 50 50 map that showcases the current Parkersburg Clarksburg TAYLOR MINERAL 50 HAMPSHIRE 340 fall colors with photos from DODDRIDGE HARRISON GRANT WOOD Philippi JEFFERSON RITCHIE Parsons Davis 220 around the state. BARBOUR 81 77 Weston 20 TUCKER 48 Petersburg 48 WIRT LEWIS 33 Buckhannon HARDY Glenville UPSHUR 28 CALHOUN Elkins GILMER 33 Point Pleasant JACKSON Burnsville Spencer 33 Ripley RANDOLPH 220 MASON ROANE BRAXTON Sutton 2 119 79 219 33 PENDLETON PUTNAM 250 Barboursville Hurricane Webster Springs Snowshoe KANAWHA 19 Huntington 64 CLAY 60 WEBSTER 66 92 CABELL Charleston NICHOLAS 219 Summersville Richwood 28 39 55 Marlinton LINCOLN 119 WAYNE POCAHONTAS 39 Late September FAYETTE GREENBRIER BOONE Fayetteville 60 Early October Logan 64 219 MINGO White Sulphur Springs LOGAN Beckley Lewisburg Mid October Williamson RALEIGH 52 Mullens SUMMERS Late October WYOMING 77 MONROE Map provided by the MERCER 460 West Virginia Division of Forestry 52 Princeton MCDOWELL Bluefield

9 North Bend New River-Greenbrier Valley

The New River–Greenbrier Valley region is beautiful, and fall is no exception. The New River Gorge Bridge and Grandview are the perfect backdrops to any photo. is one of the most iconic fall spots thanks to the Glade Creek Grist Mill. Hatfield-Mccoy Mountains

With beautiful craggy mountains, gorgeous leaves are everywhere in the Hatfield-McCoy Mountains. Head toChief Logan State Park or Cabwaylingo State Forest for some leaf peeping. Or have a more unique autumn experience by hitting the Hatfield-McCoy Trails by ATV, UTV or dirt bike. Metro Valley FALL FOLIAGE Take a walk along the Carriage Trail for stunning views of Charleston or stop by , a perfect area BEST LEAF VIEWING AREAS for hikers, bikers and everyone else to get their leaf fix. Visit Huntington’s Ritter Park where you can stroll through the leaves, or stop at in Barboursville.

When days grow cooler and leaves begin their transition to hues of red, yellow and orange, it’s time to plan a trip to the Mountain Mountaineer Country State. From guided hiking tours to scenic train rides—there’s no Mountaineer Country is home to one of the state’s most iconic wrong way to take in the dazzling display of fall foliage. Get a leaf peeping spots, Coopers Rock State Forest. Visit the main head start on planning your autumn escape by referencing the overlook or go off the beaten path and hike theRavens Rock fall foliage tracker and leaf elevation map at WVtourism.com/fall. trail for more amazing views. , and Prickett’s Fort State Park are all great leaf peeping spots as well.

11 Wheeling Blackwater Falls

Northern PanHandle

Stroll through the historic Centre Market in Wheeling or walk This region is a mecca for spots with incredible fall beauty. It’s along the Wheeling Heritage Trail. Get an aerial view of fall home to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Blackwater Falls color at Grand Vue Park in Moundsville. State Park and the Monongahela National Forest, which all boast stunning fall foliage. If you’re looking for more jaw- mid-ohio valley dropping views, visit the overlooks at Pase Point, Lindy Point, Table Rock, old Olsen Fire Tower or catch the changing colors The Mid-Ohio Valley is full of amazing spots to experience West of the beautiful blueberry bushes at Bear Rocks Preserve at Virginia’s fall foliage. From Blennerhassett Island Historical Dolly Sods National Wilderness. State Park to , this region will leave you in awe of its scenic beauty. You can also hike, bike or horseback mountain lakes ride the , which stretches 72 miles through rural countryside. Explore this region and visit beautiful Stonewall Resort State Park. Stroll the lake’s shoreline or lounge on the lakeside patio eastern Panhandle and take in the beauty of the fall foliage around you. Head to Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, located on the rim of the Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is the perfect backdrop Gauley River Canyon, for the perfect backdrop to any fall photo. to autumn with its idyllic streets, exhibits, museums and hiking Visit WVtourism.com/fallregions for a look into other leaf trails. You can also explore all 6,000 acres of Cacapon Resort peeping destinations. State Park, which has cozy cabins perfect for taking in the scenery and sipping hot apple cider.

13 Malty, spice-forward craft beer starts brewing once the air turns crisp and the autumn leaves fall. It’s the perfect time of year for a local, autumn-inspired craft beer brewed in the mountains of Almost Heaven. FAll With dozens of local craft breweries, CHECklIST West Virginia is home to every kind TRY A CRAFT BREW INSPIRED of craft beer—from hoppy IPAs and BY LOCAL HISTORY chocolaty browns to crisp blondes and complex sours. Many seasonal beers are inspired by local history, culture and folklore.

In the fall, expect to see flavors of pumpkin, coffee and maple accenting those craft brews. Caramel, nutty and toasty malt notes also become more prominent.

Try an amber beer for an easy-drinking, malty beverage. Or a Belgian brew for a more spice-heavy forward drink. An Oktoberfest, named in honor of Germany’s famous celebration, is typically an aged, heavier brew.

Hard ciders bring a fruitier flavor to the fall beverage lineup. The traditional ciders crafted in state from fermented apples draw on elderberry, caramel, pumpkin and other infusions to create unique drinks that are ideal for fall.

Whether you’re craving a malt-forward craft beer or feeling FALL FLAVORS something a bit lighter, the fall brings out delicious flavors in craft beverages that pair well with a cool autumn day. CRAFT BEER For a taste of what our local breweries, wineries and distilleries have to offer, visit WVtourism.com/brewery.

15 ’Tis the season of pumpkin spice and sweet treats that warm the soul on chilly autumn days in Almost Heaven. Local coffee and desserts make the fall months in the mountains delicious.

FAll Specialty coffee drinks in local shops highlight the flavorsof fall. You’ll find pumpkin spice lattes, salted caramel cappuccinos, CHECklIST hazelnut mochas and cinnamon chai teas. You may even find SAMPLE A DESSERT MADE WITH A FALL SPICE some pumpkin or leaf latte art decorating your drink. Many are topped with fresh whipped cream, a drizzle of syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Other warm drinks round out beverage options in the fall. Enjoy homemade hot chocolate with specialty marshmallows (like chocolate chip cookie dough and buttered popcorn) or warm cider with cinnamon sticks. These soothing drinks are sure to get you in the fall spirit.

And nothing goes better with a hot coffee than a homemade dessert. Inspired by fall flavors like nutmeg, clove and allspice, many desserts are labors of love made with recipes that have been passed down for generations. Local bakeries often feature fall seasonal favorites like pumpkin cheesecake, apple pie, cinnamon coffee cake and caramel cookie bars.

One bite of these tasty autumn desserts paired with a locally roasted coffee is the perfect way to begin a fall day in Almost Heaven. Not only will it warm you up, but it will also keep you toasty all day—and all season—long. FALL FLAVORS Quaint coffee shops and warm beverages await you in West COFFEE & DESSERTS Virginia. Visit WVtourism.com/coffee for a list of shops near you.

17 Fall is farm-to-table season in West Virginia, and restaurants around the state focus on local flavors for their seasonal menus. From locally raised meats to farm fresh fruits and vegetables, restaurants source their products from area gardens and pastures, many of which become special items and daily features.

Cozy restaurants complete with fireplaces and warm colors embody the autumn season. There are fine dining spaces lit by candlelight and small nooks that feel personal. You will find restaurants with both comfortable environments and comfort food. Think freshly baked breads, warm apple pies topped with a dollop of homemade ice cream and rich, hearty stews. With these delicious meal options, you’ll taste all the flavors of fall.

If you want to create your own fall meal, there are a number of recipes that are perfect to make right at home or around a backyard campfire. For example, if you want to kick your s’mores up a notch, consider these upgrades from West Virginia State Parks: “Peanut Butter S’mores”—graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallow, sliced banana and creamy peanut butter.

Enjoying a meal inspired by the season in a local West Virginia restaurant is a must-do in autumn. FALL FLAVORS For a list of of farm-to-table restaurants and local diners, visit RESTAURANTS WVtourism.com/restaurants.

19 It’s that time of year when the local farmers market is filled to the brim with blooming flowers, local vegetables and fresh baked goods. Walking through a local market is a little taste of heaven—complete with vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

FAll Mums, pansies, sedum and other autumn favorites will be found in hanging baskets and planters at vendors’ booths. The deep CHECklIST purples, yellows, oranges and pops of pink dot bouquets of PICK VEGETABLES OF 3 COLORS FROM A flowers, many of which you can take home to plant and see LOCAL MARKET bloom each fall.

You will find pumpkins, gourds, spinach, kale and other crisp vegetables for sale, as well as apples and pears. Many farmers markets will include recipe cards to create dishes with the products you purchase at the market. Some farmers market favorites include quiche, stir-fries and pasta salads with local market vegetables.

Another fall market find is baked goods. Local bakers will create muffins, streusel and pies using eggs and flour from the market to create delicious treats. Others will craft sourdough, baguettes, Italian and whole wheat loaves.

Local farmers markets provide fresh, local foods that are sourced from area farms—meaning all those products available have been picked at the peak of freshness. From seasonal flowers to bright yellow gourds, farmers markets have everything you need to make your harvest table feel FALL FLAVORS like autumn. FARMERS MARKETS Check out WVtourism.com/farmersmarket for a look into some of the amazing treats you can find at our local markets.

21 Cranberry River

FAll Fishing

CHECklIST An angler’s dream, West Virginia is home to vast public lands for GET OUTSIDE AND TRY A FALL- FOCUSED ACTIVITY fishing. From fly fishing to famous trout, Almost Heaven offers plenty to reel in from 20,000+ miles of streams and 100+ fishing lakes. Whether you’re an expert angler or on a family fly fishing trip, the Mountain State has something for everyone.

Fly fishing is especially popular during this time of year, with guided trips and stockings from area outfitters throughout the fall season. Cast a line and end up in Almost Heaven this fall.

Visit WVtourism.com/fishing for a list of local outfitters that can help you reel in the big one.

Hunting

Crisp, fresh mountain air and dewy mountain mornings await eager hunters in Almost Heaven. Lucky for those looking for excitement, world-class hunting can be found throughout the state. Retreat into the wilderness and you’ll find a vast population of challenging game to hunt. West Virginia game includes deer, OUTDOOR RECREATION wild boar, turkey, bear and more. With a proper license from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, West Virginia state forests are open to hunting during both small and big game seasons and make for an adventurous hunting destination. Crisp, cool air and changing colors make fall the perfect time to For licensing information and a schedule of hunting seasons, get outside and explore Almost Heaven. Whether you want to hit visit WVtourism.com/hunting. the trails on your ATV or experience the tranquility of fly fishing, West Virginia’s outdoor recreation opportunities await.

23 24 Hatfield-McCoy Trails Gauley River

ATV Trails WhiteWater Rafting

West Virginia’s mountainous terrain is more than just a sight to West Virginia in the fall is perfect for thrill-seekers. Every behold. Rolling hills provide the foundation for one-of-a-kind September, the Summersville Dam executes a series of off-road fun and adventure. Step back in time and revisit one of scheduled releases into the Gauley River. These releases the most notorious feuds in the country, and ride more than 700 continue through October and transform the Gauley into one of miles of trails dedicated to the families involved. the most intense whitewater rivers in the world—thus creating “Gauley Season.” The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System has eight trailheads throughout southern West Virginia. Each trail has different Thousands of whitewater enthusiasts travel from around the views and difficulty levels, and each trailhead town has different world to tackle Class V rapids like Insignificant, Pillow Rock and amenities and its own special connection to the famous family Lost Paddle. Gauley Season is such a popular event that it’s feud. The trails have guided tours for beginners. More advanced known as the state’s fifth season—making West Virginia the only trail riders can bring their ATVs and watch the leaves fall as they state to boast not four, but five seasons. ride through the Almost Heaven mountains. Check out WVtourism.com/Gauley for a list of outfitters that can help you tackle the Gauley River this fall. Visit WVtourism.com/ATV to learn more about the off-road adventures waiting for you in West Virginia.

25 Berkeley Springs Pumpkin Patches

Picking a pumpkin straight off the vine is something both kids and adults of all ages will appreciate. West Virginia FAll farms pull out all the stops when it comes to fall. From pumpkin bowling to CHECklIST HOP ABOARD A TRAIN TO hay rides, West Virginia has the perfect SEE TRUE OUTDOOR BEAUTY way to enjoy this season.

Once September rolls around, Gritt’s Farm in the southern part of the state turns its plot of land into a full-blown playground. Complete with a slide mountain, hay maze, pumpkin bowling and much more, this farm is an autumn haven.

In Martinsburg, a short hayride will transport you to the pumpkin patch at Orr’s Farm Market and is sure to make your little one’s day. Once at the patch location, you’ll have access to a smaller corn maze and a barnyard animal area.

Visit the pumpkin patch nearest to you for all things fall. Family Fun Corn Mazes One activity you can’t miss out on in the fall is twisting and turning your way through acres and acres of tall corn stalks. At Cooper Family Farms in Milton, you’re free to walk through Fall is a magical time in the Mountain State. As the leaves begin or zipline over the expansive maze. During the day, answer trivia to change and the air becomes crisp, families gather to make questions to guide your way through the sprawling corn maze. unforgettable seasonal memories. Closer to Halloween, the maze turns into a heart-pounding haunt after the sun goes down.

27 Union’s Byrnside Branch Farm has mazes to suit every age. Its largest corn maze has more than two and a half miles of trails sprawling 18 acres. For the kiddies, there is a smaller, less challenging two-acre maze, as well as a hay maze.

Time yourself to see how quickly you can accomplish the feat, or meander in the corn field on a cool day. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly maze or want to take on a heart-pounding haunted maze, you won’t be disappointed. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Apple Orchards Train Rides

With the Golden Delicious apple originating in Clay , it’s As fall approaches, the West Virginia hillsides come alive with almost a rite of passage to pick up some freshly picked apples color, making it a perfect time to hop on a train and experience this fall. the natural beauty of the state.

Apple picking begins at Orr’s Farm Market in Berkeley County in Travel along the Cass Scenic Railroad to the third-highest point late August. It’s a hot spot for tourists, and sometimes the crops in West Virginia: Bald Knob. This journey starts at the historic can all be picked within a week. Keep up with its social media depot at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, and the overlook at pages so you don’t miss out on the fresh produce. the top of Bald Knob is sure to leave you speechless.

Rellim Orchard in Kearneysville sells its fruit right out of its Departing from Romney, the Potomac Eagle fall foliage trips apple barn that was built in 1912. With 29 different varieties whisk you away on a three-hour journey through beautiful grown on site, you won’t have any trouble finding your countryside. The ride will take you through “,” a apple preference. steep-sided valley only accessible by train or boat. Don’t be surprised to see a soaring above in this stretch of There’s nothing quite like an apple straight from the tree—don’t your journey. miss out on this fun fall tradition. Visit WVtourism.com/familyfall for more fun fall ideas.

29 Greenbrier Valley

LEAF PEEPING FALL ROAD TRIPS ENJOY A SCENIC DRIVE STATE ROUTE 311 DOWN A COUNTRY ROAD

Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia’s topography carves Later, enjoy the crisp fall air with a bike ride along the out a beautiful landscape of fall colors. Looking for a weekend . Nearby offers road trip to take in the sights? Look no further than nearly 19 miles of hiking trails. Farther south, Hanging Rock State Route 311. Raptor Observatory atop is a favorite gathering spot for birders to watch fall migrations. When the leaves along this well-traveled road start to turn, it’s a sight to behold. Turn your road trip into an overnighter with a stay at a historic inn or charming bed and breakfast. Travel this rural road past picturesque farmland before climbing through dense forest to the ridgeline of Peters Mountain, where To learn more about the sites and attractions on State Route 311,

the maples are at peak. visit WVtourism.com/Route311.

Venture to Historic Lewisburg, where you can dine at any number of award-winning restaurants featuring an appetizing variety of gourmet cuisine and mouth-watering casual fare. Browse a charming array of boutique stores and art galleries or even take in a performance at Carnegie Hall.

31 New River Gorge Bridge

LEAF PEEPING FALL ROAD TRIPS U.S. ROUTE 19 IN FAYETTE COUNTY

U.S. Route 19 is home to iconic views and is the site of major While Fayette County is known for the New River Gorge, it is attractions and events, including the annual Bridge Day also peppered with quaint small towns that are the perfect fall celebration that takes place every third Saturday in October at pit stop. Grab a cup of coffee from a local roaster and explore the New River Gorge Bridge. Each year, thousands of people the unique shops. Savor dishes from farm-to-table restaurants in gather on the bridge for West Virginia’s largest single-day Fayetteville and cap off your day with a sip from one of the festival. Spectators can bask in the beauty of the tallest bridge local breweries. in the Western Hemisphere, while watching hundreds of BASE From amazing views and quaint small towns, learn more about jumpers leap to the gorge below. U.S. Route 19 at WVtourism.com/Route19. For fall accommodations, look no further than or one of West Virginia’s many whitewater rafting resorts. There are also many unique bed and breakfasts and cabin rentals available for those seeking a cozier night’s sleep.

33 Coopers Rock State Forest Cacapon Resort State Park

LEAF PEEPING FALL ROAD TRIPS LEAF PEEPING FALL ROAD TRIPS STATE ROUTE 7 U.S. ROUTE 522

Hints of yellow and red are a sight to see along State Route 7 Take a trip along U.S. Route 522 in the Eastern Panhandle. The between Morgantown and Arthurdale, making for a perfect time winding road guides you from Cacapon Resort State Park to the to get out and enjoy a scenic drive. historic spa town of Berkeley Springs. Known for its art galleries, boutique shops and award-winning restaurants, this charming Plan a weekend getaway around your leaf-peeping activities. small town is a must-visit this fall. There are plenty of lodging options in the area, including luxury resorts and scenic hotels. While traveling the beautiful country road, take in a bonus view with a short side trip west on State Route 9 to Panorama You may want to bring along your bicycles and enjoy a Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of three states and leisurely ride along the Deckers Creek rail trail system outside two rivers. Morgantown, or head over to Coopers Rock State Forest to take in the awe-inspiring views of the Cheat River Canyon. Learn more about the country roads in the Eastern Panhandle by visiting WVtourism.com/Route522. Get more ideas on the perfect pit stops along State Route 7 by visiting WVtourism.com/Route7.

35 Bridge Day LATE SEPTEMBER EVENTS & FESTIVALS

Orr’s Farm Market Fall Farm Fun Days September 21-22, Martinsburg

Live music, delicious food, hayrides, craft vendors, children’s FAll activities and a pumpkin patch make Orr’s Farm Market Fall Farm CHECklIST Fun Days a wonderful autumn event for the whole family. CELEBRATE FALL AT A LOCAL FESTIVAL Leaf Peepers Festival September 27-29, Davis

Celebrate the return of the fall season at the Leaf Peepers Festival. Glass blowing, wagon rides, music and the indoor craft show are all festival-goer favorites.

Mountain State Forest Festival September 28-October 6, Elkins

As one of the state’s largest and oldest festivals, the Mountain State Forest Festival maintains rich traditions and continues to celebrate the beauty of the state. Concerts, parades, exhibits and Fall Events & Festivals more take place during the event. Gritt’s Farm Fun Farm September 21–November 2, Buffalo

Gritt’s Farm Fun Farm is a fall family must-do. Experience all Step outside this fall and experience Almost Heaven’s one-of-a-kind things autumn with a pumpkin patch, wagon rides, hay maze and events and festivals. From leaf peeping to extreme sports, West tasty treats. Virginia is the perfect spot to create lasting memories all season long.

37 EARLY OCTOBER EVENTS & FESTIVALS LATE OCTOBER EVENTS & FESTIVALS

West Virginia Pumpkin Festival Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival October 3-6, Milton October 17-20, Martinsburg

Celebrate the seasonal harvest at the West Virginia Pumpkin The Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival celebrates the Eastern Festival. This annual celebration features blacksmithing, pottery- Panhandle’s apple industry. Festival highlights include agricultural making, quilting, woodworking demonstrations, as well as displays, the Grand Feature Parade, apple eating and peeling numerous special exhibits and vendors. contests and more.

West Virginia Book Festival Taste of Bridge Day October 4-5, Charleston October 18, Fayetteville

Escape the chilly fall air at the West Virginia Book Festival. At Taste of Bridge Day, sample signature dishes from the area’s Authors, vendors, publicists and readers gather at this event, amazing restaurants and watch as food vendors compete for an which features renowned and local writers as well as workshops, a array of coveted awards. used book sale, a festival marketplace and children’s activities. Bridge Day Oglebayfest October 19, Fayetteville October 4-6, Wheeling Held annually every third Saturday in October, Bridge Day is a Since 1978, Oglebayfest has been a celebration of the fall season. can’t-miss fall event. At Bridge Day, thousands of spectators watch At Oglebayfest, enjoy fireworks, parades, live music, contests, as BASE jumpers and rappellers plummet 876 feet from the New shopping and much more. River Gorge Bridge.

FestivALL Fall C-K AutumnFest October 10-13, Charleston October 25-26, Kenova

FestivALL Fall features a wide array of indoor and outdoor events The C-K AutumnFest celebrates all things fall. The festival includes throughout the capitol city. FestivALL Fall includes an incredible a carnival, crafts, children’s activities, a bake-off and the highlight schedule of live music, art and theater. of the festival is the famous Pumpkin House, which is decorated with more than 3,000 hand-carved pumpkins.

For a full list of events, visit WVtourism.com/eventcalendar.

39 FAll CHECklIST

Find all 11 leaf species

Try a craft brew inspired by local history

Sample a dessert made with a fall spice

Try an autumn-inspired dish

Pick vegetables of 3 colors from a local market

Get outside and try a fall-focused activity

Hop aboard a train to see true outdoor beauty

Enjoy a scenic drive down a country road

Celebrate fall at a local festival

SHARE YOUR VERSION OF HEAVEN

A crisp autumn breeze fills the air. Colorful leaves paint a picturesque, mountain landscape. Fall is the best time to visit Almost Heaven. As you explore the Mountain State, share and tag your fall photos on social with #AlmostHeaven.

Be sure to visit the live fall foliage tracker on WVtourism.com/fall to view other travelers’ photos from around the state.

41

Babcock State Park

WVtourism.com #AlmostHeaven