These five mountain towns are fall must-visits to see West Virginia in her prime.
written by PAYTON MANDELL
photographed by CARL WITT
FROM FESTIVALS TO FOLIAGE, West Virginia takes the top spot for states to visit in autumn. Here are some towns that showcase the season with mountain views and family fall activities.
THOMAS & DAVIS
In the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, sister towns Thomas and Davis are home to Blackwater Falls, Canaan Valley, and Dolly Sods, some of the state’s most popular hiking spots.
ELKINS
As a Mon Forest Town, Elkins is a great jumping off point for fall hikes. It offers opportunities to experience West Virginia heritage, including Halliehurst Mansion, the West Virginia Railroad Museum, and Augusta Heritage Center—and don’t miss the Mountain State Forest Festival.
FAYETTEVILLE
Visit Fayetteville this autumn to see the New River Gorge Bridge from an entirely new perspective. Witness breathtaking scenery of the New River from over 800 feet up. At Bridge Day, October 18 this year, daredevils from around the world bungee jump off the bridge over the New River.
FRANKLIN
The little town of Franklin offers mountain charm. Step back more than a century in the historic district along Main Street. Take a drive up to Dry Run Spirits and sample moonshine, apple jack, and liqueurs on the 200-plus-year-old farmstead where they’re made—then stop back in town for some homestyle cooking.
WESTON
Autumn is the spooky season, and West Virginia has its fair share of ghost stories. Head to Weston this fall and take a tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum if you’re looking for a good scare!
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S FALL 2025 ISSUE
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