Fall Foliage Report for Northern Virginia State Parks
Fall foliage report for Oct. 31, 2024.
The fall colors are vibrant as parks in the northern region are at peak. Leesylvania State Park boasts cool weather in the 60s and 70s, with stunning views along Bushey Point Trail. Seven Bends State Park features lovely amber hues and crisp strolls. Sky Meadows State Park has frosty mornings and foliage just past peak, offering scenic views at Turner Pond. Sweet Run State Park is nearing peak color with warmer days, while Widewater State Park showcases more yellow and red hues, with leaves starting to fall amid a chill in the air.
Get outside and share your fall photos on social media using the hashtags #VaStateParks and #FallinVirginia to participate in the online conversation.
Leesylvania State Park - 10/29/2024
The fall colors are at their peak here at Leesylvania State Park. The weather has been cooling down, with highs in the 70s and 60s and lows in the 40s and 30s. Driving down the main road, you can see a collection of fall leaves and colors. Bushey Point Trail and the boat launch docks offer visitors the opportunity to view the trees across the water clearly. It truly feels and looks like fall all around.
Best place to view: The best places to view the fall foliage are Potomac Trail, Bushey Point Trail, Lee’s Wood Trail and the boat launch parking lots.
Why visit this week: Science in the Park: Homeschool Series on Oct. 31
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Seven Bends State Park - 10/28/2024
Amber hues have settled across the park as we reach peak color this week. Each bend in the trail presents another varied and exciting color palate to enjoy. Frosty mornings have returned, and it is so nice to enjoy those crisp, bug-free strolls. We are also still being treated to afternoon temperatures between the 60s and 70s with plenty of sunshine for folks who like it warmer.
Best place to view: River Bend Rise Trailhead.
Why visit this week: The 2024 Sippin’ Series Vineyard Vista 5k & 10k is Saturday, Nov. 2, at Muse Vineyards and Seven Bends State Park. Our merchandise trailer will be set up for the race at Hollingsworth.
Join us for an Owl Pellet Dissection on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 4 to 5 p.m. Registration is required and filling up fast.
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Sky Meadows State Park - 10/29/2024
The weather at Sky Meadows State Park has been sunny and clear this past week. The temperatures have varied quite a bit ranging from the 30s to the 70s, with some of our first frosty mornings. The fall foliage is just past its peak of color, as many leaves are turning to a deep rust color while others have already fallen. The Historic Area, as viewed from every direction, provides different perspectives of the pastures, forests and grazing cattle. Turner Pond is another great spot for viewing fall foliage, with the bonus of viewing swans and geese.
Best place to view: The Historic Area and Turner Pond
Why visit this week:
Critter Chow occurring on Nov. 1.
A Fall Tree-mendous Hike: A guided hike on the Sensory Explorers’ Trail occurring on Nov. 2.
The Settle’s Kettle hearth cooking demonstration and the Farmer’s Forge blacksmith demonstration occurring on Nov. 2.
Astronomy for Everyone occurring on Nov. 2.
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Sweet Run State Park - 10/28/2024
This week finds most of the trees reaching or nearing their peak at Sweet Run. The warmer weather continues to try and hold on, with some days rising into the high 60s and even low 70s. But overall, the colder temperatures have started emerging, accompanied by sporadic gusts of wind.
Best place to view: Gordon Pond, Lower Sweet Run Trail (Lower Sweet Run Trail is most easily accessible from the Sawmill Parking Lot).
*Please use extra caution when accessing the Sawmill Parking Lot, as this entrance also serves as the trailer access for park visitors. Be on the lookout for horse trailers as you drive down Sawmill Ln.
Why visit this week:
Party in the Pollinator Gardens on Nov. 2, 9 -10:30 a.m. Join Sweet Run volunteers for a rewarding morning of gardening with fellow plant lovers. Children ages 14 and up may participate with a parent or guardian.
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Widewater State Park - 10/29/2024
Little has changed in the leaf cover at Widewater beyond a shade more yellows and reds. Leaves are beginning to cover the ground and the days have sharp, chill nip in the air.
Best place to view: Aquia Creek Paddle Launch, Holly Marsh Trail
Why visit this week: On Thursday, Oct. 31, you can come dressed in your costume to practice your archery.
Click the photo to view a slideshow.