Good news, everyone! We’ve made it through another summer, and here in the Mountain State, at least, fall is right around the corner. And that has us asking a burning question: exactly when do leaves change color in West Virginia? Well, my friends, thankfully, the folks at The Smoky Mountains have the answer, and they’ve developed a handy interactive fall foliage prediction map to help us all know exactly when to expect peak fall color change across the United States, including West Virginia. Check it out!

According to the interactive prediction map, the very earliest hints of fall color in West Virginia will begin around September 18.
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By September 25, small patches of color will be visible in the northwestern quadrant and the Eastern Panhandle. By October 2nd, the entire state will have entered fall, with the most advanced color being exhibited in the eastern highland regions.
Smoky Mountains
By October 16th, the eastern highlands will peak.
Smoky Mountains
By the following week (October 23), the entire northern half of West Virginia will reach peak fall color.
Smoky Mountains
Southern West Virginia will peak by October 30, and by November 6, the fall color will have faded to winter gray across West Virginia.
Smoky Mountains
In summary, the peak weeks for fall color in West Virginia will be October 16 through October 30, depending on the region.
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Of course, even if you miss the peak fall color in West Virginia, there's still so much beauty to see.
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It's easy to see why fall is such a popular time to visit wild, wonderful West Virginia. There's nothing quite like the sight of the majestic Appalachians bathed in autumn splendor. Bring it on, fall!
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Based on the West Virginia foliage map, when do leaves change color in your area? Do you think it will be a good year for fall color in the Appalachian region? Are you heading out anywhere special to see some of the amazing fall colors in Almost Heaven? If so, and you plan to stay overnight, be sure to snag your accommodation ASAP, as tourist travel across West Virginia picks up significantly during the peak fall season, especially on weekends!

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