5 of Virginia’s Best Hikes for Fall Foliage: Shenandoah Valley

The Blue Ridge Mounta: Shenandoah National Park’s, Upper Hawksbill Trail, is astonishing during this time of year. It is a short and easy hike to the top of this beautiful vantage point. If you’re lucky you may see some wire plant species! This hike is can be located on the Skyline Drive. Directions from Shenandoah Valley: fall foliage in Virginia is by hiking to the peek of a captivating overlook.

1. Upper Hawksbill Trail: Shenandoah National Parks, Upper Hawksbill Trail, is astonishing during this time of year. It is a short and easy hike to the top of this beautiful vantage point. If you’re lucky you may see some wildlife and rare plant species! This hike can be located on the Skyline Drive. Directions from Shenandoah Valley: Here

2. Humpback Rock: This is a classic! It is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway when you take I-64 E to Blue Ridge Pkwy in Nelson County. This hike has two trail options, there is the scenic route which is approximately 3.9 miles (out and back), or there is the 1.6 mile (out and back) which tackles the 700 ft incline straight up. Either way, the reward once you reach the top of Humpback is worth it! Directions from Shenandoah Valley: Here

3. Dark Hollow Falls Trail: Another Skyline Drive special. This hike leads to an incredible view of the waterfalls. This hike is a huge Shenandoah National Park hit. It’s even more beautiful during the months of fall. The drive there has plenty of overlooks to stop at to enjoy the peaceful scenery. Directions from Shenandoah Valley: Here

4. Old Rag Mountain Trail: This hike is not for the faint of heart! It is one of the more difficult hikes in the Shenandoah National Park. Again, located from the Skyline Dr entrance. This is a 8.4 mile hike, this hike will take you through many different scenic areas. Including the upper and lower view of the falls. The challenge is worth it. Directions from Shenandoah Valley: Here

5. Bearfence Mountain Trail: This is another short and easy hike. There is a captivating 360 degree view at the top that’s worth every step! Located in the Shenandoah National Park on the Skyline Drive. This hike during the fall is absolutely breathtaking. Directions from Shenandoah Valley: Here

Happy Hiking from the Iris Inn!