7 Pocahontas County Spots To Add To Your Leaf-Peeping Trip
When autumn settles over the mountains, Pocahontas County, West Virginia, fills with color in every direction. With wide stretches of public land, endless outdoor adventures and plenty of places to slow down and take in the scenery, it’s a top destination for a fall getaway. From well-loved overlooks to hidden gems, here are seven spots to add to your Pocahontas County leaf-peeping trip.
1. Highland Scenic Highway
The best views of the season often come right from the driver’s seat. The Highland Scenic Highway is a 43-mile stretch from Richwood to U.S. Route 219, just north of Marlinton. Crossing the Allegheny Highlands, the highway climbs from 2,325 feet to over 4,500 feet. Be sure to stop at one of the four overlooks — Williams River, Big Spruce, Little Laurel and Red Lick — for sweeping vistas of fiery valleys and rugged peaks. If you’d like to get out and explore, the High Rocks Trail along the route leads to an overlook of Hillsboro and the Little Levels District.
2. Overlook Trail
For a brand-new way to enjoy fall color, hike the recently opened Overlook Trail near Marlinton. This short 0.6-mile loop begins beside the Greenbrier River Trail parking area and climbs Marlin Mountain to a scenic overlook. At the top, you’ll find uninterrupted views of the Greenbrier River, the town of Marlinton and the historic Pocahontas County Courthouse — all framed in golden hues.
3. Mower Basin Trail System
Once a strip mine, the Mower Basin Trail System has been reclaimed and transformed into an incredible outdoor destination within the Monongahela National Forest. Trails wind through towering spruce trees, restored meadows and hardwood forests, opening up to colorful mountain vistas. Ideal for families, the trail system offers beginner and intermediate mountain biking and a variety of hiking options. After exploring, set up camp under the stars or head into nearby Durbin for dinner and a cozy overnight stay.
4. Snowshoe Mountain Resort
At 4,848 feet in elevation, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is one of the best places to take in the fall foliage. On clear days, you’ll see striking reds, oranges and golds stretching for miles across steep ridges and deep valleys. Enjoy a breathtaking panorama by hiking the 3.3-mile Airport Trail from the Silver Creek trailhead to the top of Silver Creek. Or for something easy yet just as rewarding, ride the ski lift down to Shavers Lake for a peaceful foliage-filled view.
5. Mountain Rail Adventures
Hop on a historic train and enjoy the season’s changing leaves as you climb the mountains. From Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Mountain Rail Adventures offers three memorable excursions into the Allegheny Mountains. Choose the 1.5-hour trip to Whittaker Station, the four-hour ride to Bald Knob (one of West Virginia’s highest peaks) or the full-day Greenbrier Express, a six-hour journey along the Greenbrier River from Cass to Durbin and back.
6. Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
Hike where Civil War soldiers once marched at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, West Virginia’s first state park, established in 1928. The highlight for leaf-peepers is the park’s replica lookout tower. Climb to the top for a wide-open perspective of the Greenbrier River Valley glowing in shades of autumn.
7. Green Bank Observatory
For a truly unique fall experience, visit the Green Bank Observatory. The observation deck is the best spot to admire the massive Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT) — the largest fully steerable radio telescope in the world — surrounded by the season’s vibrant hues. Standing 485 feet tall and weighing 17 million pounds, the telescope is awe-inspiring in its own right. While you’re there, join a guided tour or explore the property’s network of hiking and biking trails.
With peak color lasting only a few short weeks, now is the perfect time to plan your trip to Pocahontas County. Request your free Adventure Guide now!