Fall is the perfect time to experience the beauty and culture of Pocahontas County, West Virginia. From live music performances and history exhibits to classic fall activities, there is something for everyone. Here are seven things to do this fall in Pocahontas County.
1. Attend Durbin’s Fall Fest & Horse Scavenger Hunt
On October 12, Durbin comes alive with the Fall Fest, hosted at East Fork Campground. This family-friendly event will feature live entertainment by local country artist Corey Hager, tasty food and plenty of fall fun. The festival offers a fantastic way to spend a crisp autumn day in a beautiful setting.
For those with a sense of adventure, participate in the Mounted Horse Scavenger Hunt at East Fork Campground. Starting at 10 a.m. on October 12, this trail ride event offers a unique way to experience the scenic beauty of Durbin while competing for prizes. Even if you’re not riding, you can enjoy dinner and entertainment, making it a day for everyone.
2. Experience World-Class Music at Pocahontas County Opera House
The Pocahontas County Opera House continues its 25th season with two incredible performances in October. First, on October 12, ALASH, the world-renowned Tuvan throat singers, will take the stage from 7 to 9 p.m., offering an otherworldly musical experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Later in the month, on October 25, enjoy a performance by The Onlies, a nationally known string band with deep roots in Appalachian and folk music. Both shows are family-friendly, with tickets priced at a $10 donation for adults, while admission is free for kids 17 and under. Secure your tickets in advance to guarantee a seat at one of these shows.
3. Enjoy the Homegrown Music Series at Rivertown
Get ready for amazing live music at Rivertown Music in Marlinton. On October 11, from 8 to 10 p.m., Juanita Fireball & the Continental Drifters will be performing their Appalachian string band tunes as part of a benefit concert supporting hurricane relief efforts. It’s a chance to give back while enjoying authentic mountain music. The event has a $5 entry fee, and all proceeds and tips go to relief organizations, including World Central Kitchen, Beloved Asheville and River Arts District Artists.
Then on October 18, catch Juice Newsom and The Groove, a high-energy funk-blues band guaranteed to get you moving. Based in Elkins, West Virginia, this five-piece group fuses funk, blues and rock, delivering a mix of classic funky standards and original tunes. These nights at Rivertown Music offer the chance to support local causes while diving into the vibrant regional music scene.
4. Navigate CW’s Corn Maze
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a corn maze, and CW’s Corn Maze offers the ideal autumn adventure. Located just minutes from Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, this 10-acre maze is a seasonal staple for both locals and visitors. In addition to navigating the maze, families can enjoy games, a petting zoo and fall-themed photo ops. The farm also features a one-acre pumpkin patch where you can pick your perfect pumpkin. Open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. through October 29, CW’s is a quintessential fall outing.
5. Learn Local History at the “Born of Rebellion” Exhibit
Step back in time with the “Born of Rebellion” exhibit at the Hillsboro Public Library. Running from October 3 to November 12, this exhibit explores the history of West Virginia’s statehood during the Civil War, with a focus on the sectional tensions between eastern and western Virginia.
On October 12, start your day at 11 a.m. with a special history presentation from the West Virginia Humanities Council. Then, at 1 p.m., join the Hillsboro Library Friends for a Civil War History Talk, featuring historian Hunter Lesser as he presents “Robert E. Lee’s Feuding Generals: Floyd vs. Lee.” It’s a unique opportunity to dive into the region’s complex and fascinating past.
6. Get Spooky with Halloween Celebrations
Halloween festivities in Pocahontas County promise fun and frights for all ages! On October 19, the Boyer Station Campground will host “A Very Scary Halloween” event featuring family-friendly activities like marble pumpkins, trick-or-treating, games and a Halloween-themed petting zoo. The evening ends with a spooky haunted trail for the brave-hearted.
For more Halloween fun, visit Cass Scenic Railroad on October 25 and 26 for its annual Halloween Weekend event. Wear your best costumes for a chance to win awards in categories like “cutest” and “scariest.” After the contest, enjoy a classic trick-or-treat around the company houses along Main Street. As night falls, head over to the Haunted House at Cass for some spine-tingling thrills.
7. Celebrate the Season at Yew Mountain Center
Wrap up your fall with a trip to the Yew Mountain Center for the Fall Flora Fiesta on November 2. This annual gathering celebrates community and the bounty of the land with an exciting day of activities. Enjoy authentic Valencian paella cooked over a wood fire, cozy up to a bonfire and take part in seasonal activities like the giant pumpkin slingshot and the second annual pond plunge.
Bonus: Don’t miss the Snowshoe Bike Park Closing Weekend on October 12 and 13! It’s your last chance to hit the trails before the season wraps up, with vibrant fall colors providing the best backdrop for your final laps. As autumn comes to a close, start looking ahead to winter fun by taking advantage of Snowshoe Mountain Resort’s early bird deals on Flex Passes, lodging, rentals and more. Winter is just around the corner — bring on the snow!
Request a free Adventure Guide to start planning your next getaway to Pocahontas County.