NEW RIVER GORGE: A Perfect Fall Weekend Itinerary in West Virginia

As the crisp autumn air sweeps through West Virginia, the Mountain State becomes an idyllic destination for a weekend getaway. Fall colors blanket the mountains, and cool temperatures create the perfect environment for outdoor exploration and cozy seasonal activities. Here’s your ultimate fall weekend itinerary in West Virginia, filled with hikes, local food, and autumn charm.

DAY 1: OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND CRAFT BREWS

Morning: Breakfast at Wood Iron Eatery

Start your fall weekend with a hearty breakfast at Wood Iron Eatery in Fayetteville. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and creative breakfast dishes, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Try their avocado toast or classic breakfast burrito paired with a fresh-brewed coffee to fuel up for the day ahead.

Morning coffee at Wood Iron Eatery

Mid-Morning: Hike the Long Point Trail

After breakfast, head out for your first hike of the weekend on the Long Point Trail. This easy-to-moderate 3.2-mile round-trip hike offers one of the best views of the New River Gorge Bridge, which spans the breathtaking canyon below. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, making this trail especially magical in autumn. When you reach the overlook, take a moment to soak in the expansive views of the gorge and bridge, a perfect photo opportunity.

Exploring Long Point Trail

Late Morning: Concho Rim Overlook

Next, drive to the Concho Rim Overlook, located just a short distance from Long Point. This lesser-known spot provides panoramic views of the New River and its surrounding valleys. In the fall, the colorful foliage cascading down the mountains adds an extra layer of beauty to the landscape, making it an excellent stop to immerse yourself in nature.

Views from Concho Rim Overlook

Lunch: Food and Drinks at Freefolk Brewery

After your morning adventures, head back to Fayetteville for a relaxing lunch at Freefolk Brewery, a local favorite known for its craft beers and laid-back atmosphere. They serve a variety of seasonal brews, including fall-inspired options like pumpkin ales and amber lagers. Pair your beer with a gourmet burger or their farm-fresh salads for a perfect midday meal.

Post hike beer at Freefolk Brewery

Afternoon: Explore the Canyon Rim Boardwalk

After lunch, make your way to the Canyon Rim Boardwalk, an easy and accessible way to see the New River Gorge Bridge up close. The boardwalk leads to several overlooks with sweeping views of the gorge and the bridge itself. During the fall, the views are even more stunning, with the vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows of the leaves painting the mountainsides.

Canyon Rim Boardwalk views

Late Afternoon: Hike the Endless Wall Trail

Before the day ends, head to the Endless Wall Trail, one of the most scenic hikes in the New River Gorge National Park. This 2.4-mile trail offers dramatic views of the gorge and sheer sandstone cliffs. As you walk along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning fall foliage, making it one of the most picturesque hikes in the area. The golden hues of the leaves contrast beautifully with the rugged cliffs and deep river below.

Exploring Endless Wall Trail

Dinner: Pies and Pints

End your first day with dinner at Pies and Pints in Fayetteville, known for its unique pizzas and extensive craft beer selection. After a day of hiking, their wood-fired pizzas—such as the grape and gorgonzola or classic pepperoni—are a delicious way to refuel. Wash it down with one of their local brews to cap off a perfect day.

DAY 2: HISTORY, LAKES, AND SEASONAL FESTIVITIES

Morning: Breakfast at Cathedral Café

On your second day, start with breakfast at the quirky Cathedral Café, housed in a restored church in Fayetteville. This café offers a welcoming atmosphere and a delicious menu of breakfast favorites, from homemade waffles to breakfast burritos. The cozy ambiance, with stained glass windows and eclectic décor, makes it the perfect place to start a fall day.

Morning rush at Cathedral Cafe

Late Morning: Babcock State Park and the Glade Creek Grist Mill

After breakfast, drive to Babcock State Park, where the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill is located. This historic, fully operational mill is one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia, especially in the fall when the surrounding foliage creates a stunning backdrop. Spend some time exploring the park, walking along the trails, and snapping photos of the vibrant scenery. The rustic charm of the grist mill, combined with the fiery fall leaves, makes this stop a must for any autumn vision it.

Midday: Boley Lake

Just a short drive from the grist mill is Boley Lake, a serene and peaceful spot surrounded by towering trees. In the fall, the lake becomes a mirror for the brilliant foliage, reflecting the reds, oranges, and yellows in the calm water. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a paddleboat, or simply sit by the shore and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.

Glade Creek Grist Mill and Boley Lake

Afternoon: Hanna Farmstead Pumpkin Patch

No fall weekend is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch! Head to Hanna Farmstead Pumpkin Patch on your way home, for some seasonal fun. Located nearby, this charming farm offers classic autumn activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and a corn maze. It's a great spot to unwind and soak in the festive atmosphere. Be sure to grab a pumpkin or two to take home as a souvenir of your fall weekend.

Fall fun at Hanna Farmstead Pumpkin Patch

Final Thoughts

West Virginia in the fall is a magical blend of outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, and seasonal charm. From hiking through vibrant forests and enjoying local craft brews to visiting historic mills and picking pumpkins, this weekend itinerary offers the perfect way to experience the best of autumn in the Mountain State. So pack your flannel, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for a fall getaway you won’t forget!