The West Virginia Tourism Office, in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Forestry today previewed the 2018 fall foliage season. Preliminary reports forecast good fall color across the state.
The agencies plan to continue their longstanding partnership and will begin producing weekly fall foliage reports next week.
“From gorgeous fall foliage and autumn activities to annual harvest festivals and events, fall in West Virginia is truly almost heaven,” said Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby. “I’m excited to continue our partnership with our friends at the Division of Forestry, and it looks like residents and visitors alike are in store for gorgeous color this fall.”
Weekly updates will detail the percentage of color change throughout the state and will also include a featured country road trip of the week. The road trips are designed to take travelers of the beaten path and introduce them to favorite fall pastimes, places to stay and picturesque spots across the state.
“There’s no better time to travel down our country roads than when they are lined with beautiful fall color. And with so many things to see and do across the state, we want travelers to find their favorite country road and make the stops that help generate tourism spending in our local communities.”
Weekly fall foliage updates will be provided by Division of Forestry personnel, and the Tourism Office will compile them and create corresponding fall foliage trip ideas. The reports will be released each Wednesday beginning next week.
“As the evenings start to cool and frost begins, the first color will start in the northern part of the state and in higher elevations, then gradually work its way south and to lower elevations,” said Barry Cook, Director of the Division of Forestry. “This year, we should have some really great fall color. We’ve had plenty of moisture over the summer, which helps keep the foliage from drying up and turning brown before full color is achieved.
As vibrant colors begin to peak across the state, travelers are encouraged to post and share their favorite fall photos using #AlmostHeaven for a chance to appear in the Tourism Office’s marketing efforts this fall.
To view and download the 2018 Fall Color Map, click here. For more fall travel inspiration and events, visit www.WVtourism.com/fall.
