Soon the vibrant colors of autumn will begin to paint the landscape, and West Virginia will become a picturesque destination filled with activities and adventures that celebrate the fall season. Whether you’re a visitor planning your first trip or a proud West Virginian, there’s always a new adventure waiting to be explored! Our fall bucket […]

1. 1. Visit J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works

   Top on your fall bucket list should be a visit to J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works. Located just a short drive from downtown Charleston, this historic salt-works offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. During your tour, you’ll learn about the seven-generation family tradition of salt making, from the ancient brine to the modern solar evaporation process. The tour provides a deep dive into the history and science behind the salt-making process. After the tour, make sure to visit the gift shop where you can purchase artisanal salts, perfect for adding a touch of local flavor to your fall recipes. This visit not only enriches your fall bucket list but also supports a local business with a rich heritage.

    

   2. Explore the Capitol Market

   Another must-do on your fall bucket list is exploring the Capitol Market. This bustling market transforms with the season, offering an array of fall produce like apples, squash, and pumpkins, along with beautiful mums and other fall flowers. Strolling through the market, you’ll be surrounded by the colors and scents of autumn. It’s the perfect place to pick up fresh ingredients for a hearty fall meal or to find that perfect pumpkin for carving. The Capitol Market is also home to several local vendors and shops, making it a great spot to find unique, locally-made gifts and treats. Add Capitol Market to your fall bucket list for a quintessential autumn experience in Charleston!

    

   3. Hike in Kanawha State Forest

   No fall bucket list is complete without a hike through Kanawha State Forest. The forest’s 9,300 acres offer over 25 miles of trails, each providing its own unique view of the fall foliage. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, there’s a trail for you. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots along the way. The crisp autumn air and the vibrant hues of the changing leaves create a perfect backdrop for a day in nature. Don’t forget your homemade electrolyte drink to keep you hydrated during your hike!

    

   4. Attend the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival

   Adding the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival to your fall bucket list is a no-brainer. Held annually in Milton, just a 30-minute drive from Charleston, this festival is one of the largest in the state. The festival features a wide range of activities, including pumpkin carving contests, live music, craft vendors, and a variety of food stalls offering delicious fall treats. It’s a great family-friendly event where you can immerse yourself in all things pumpkin. From giant pumpkin displays to hayrides and corn mazes, this festival embodies the spirit of fall and provides a fun-filled day for all ages.

    

   5. Experience the Bridge Day Festival

   Bridge Day, held annually on the third Saturday in October, is a one-of-a-kind event that should be on every fall bucket list. Held at the New River Gorge Bridge, this festival features BASE jumping, rappelling, and a thrilling highline zip. Spectators can watch as daredevils leap from the 876-foot-high bridge, while also enjoying live music, food vendors, and craft stalls. The event draws thousands of visitors and offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping excitement and festive fun, all set against the backdrop of West Virginia’s stunning fall colors.

    

   6. FestivFall

   FestivFall is a yearly week-long event held in Charleston that truly embodies the autumn spirit. From the Harvest Art Fair to the Fall Carriage Trail walk complete with musicians and theatrical performances, there is something for everyone! You can attend these wonderful events typically during the second week of October.

    

   7. Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad

   Adding a scenic train ride on the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad to your fall bucket list will provide a unique perspective of West Virginia’s autumn beauty. The routes traverse through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and alongside rushing rivers, all adorned with the brilliant hues of fall. The nostalgic charm of the trains combined with the breathtaking scenery makes for an unforgettable experience.

    

   8. Explore the Haunted History of Harpers Ferry

   For those who love a mix of history and spookiness, Harpers Ferry should be on your fall bucket list. This historic town is known for its role in the Civil War and its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. In the fall, Harpers Ferry hosts ghost tours that take you through the town’s haunted sites and share eerie tales from its past. During the day, explore the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, hike the Appalachian Trail, or enjoy the scenic views from Maryland Heights. The combination of history, scenery, and seasonal chills makes Harpers Ferry a unique fall destination.

    

   9. Explore the New River Gorge National Park

   A visit to the New River Gorge National Park is a must on any fall bucket list for West Virginia. Known for its stunning views and world-class outdoor activities, the park becomes even more breathtaking in the fall. Hike one of the many trails, such as the Long Point Trail, for panoramic views of the gorge and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge.

    

   10. Go Leaf Peeping along the Highland Scenic Highway

   The Highland Scenic Highway is a 43-mile stretch of road that offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage views in West Virginia. Adding this drive to your fall bucket list ensures a journey through the Monongahela National Forest, with numerous overlooks and picnic areas along the way. The highway reaches elevations over 4,500 feet, providing sweeping vistas of the colorful Appalachian Mountains.

   From scenic drives and historic sites to festivals and outdoor adventures, West Virginia offers a wealth of activities to enjoy during the fall season. This fall bucket list highlights the best of what the Mountain State has to offer. And for when you fancy a nice relaxing autumn day at home, perhaps this cozy comfort food recipe can keep you company!