10 Underrated Fall Road Trips Through Virginia That Show Off Stunning Foliage
Virginia transforms into a painter’s canvas each autumn, with colors so vibrant they seem almost unreal. While most travelers flock to the same crowded spots, the Old Dominion hides spectacular foliage drives that remain blissfully uncrowded.
These hidden routes wind through mountain valleys, past rushing rivers, and over scenic ridges where maples and oaks put on their annual show without the bumper-to-bumper traffic.
1. Highland County’s Blue Grass & Little Switzerland Loop
Cattle graze peacefully in rolling pastures that stretch toward distant ridgelines, creating Virginia’s answer to the Swiss countryside.
This high-elevation loop follows US-250 and US-220 through valleys sitting 3,000 feet above sea level, where cooler temperatures trigger earlier and more intense fall colors.
Pull-offs along US-220 north of Monterey offer sweeping views across Blue Grass Valley, where golden grasses wave beneath crimson maples.
Services remain sparse between towns, so fuel up in Monterey and pack snacks for this backroad adventure through genuine cattle country.
2. Route 39 Through Goshen Pass & Warm Springs
The Maury River carved a dramatic three-mile gorge through ancient rock, creating Virginia’s oldest state-managed natural area.
Route 39 hugs the rushing water through this narrow canyon, where towering trees create a tunnel of autumn color overhead.
Roadside waysides provide perfect spots to hear the river’s roar and snap photos of reflected foliage.
After the gorge, the road climbs steadily to Dan Ingalls Overlook above Warm Springs, where mountain vistas stretch across Bath County’s forested ridges painted in October’s finest hues.
3. Mount Rogers Scenic Byway Loop
This 60-mile figure-eight pattern winds through Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, where big-mountain scenery rivals anything in the Rockies.
VA-603 and US-58 connect remote mountain communities surrounded by Virginia’s highest peaks and most pristine wilderness.
Whitetop Laurel Creek flows crystal-clear through streamside forests that glow like stained glass windows in autumn light.
The byway provides access to both the Virginia Creeper Trail and Appalachian Trail, where hiking options abound among the region’s spectacular fall displays.
4. Back of the Dragon Challenge
Motorcyclists and driving enthusiasts pilgrim to VA-16 for its legendary 438 curves packed into just 32 miles.
This thrilling route crosses three separate mountain ranges between Marion and Tazewell, demanding full attention from drivers navigating its serpentine path. October rewards skilled drivers with stunning reds and golds framing every dramatic bend.
Big sweeping curves near Hungry Mother State Park and overlook pull-offs near Tazewell provide safe spots to catch your breath and admire the spectacular mountain vistas stretching toward distant horizons.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway’s Hidden Virginia Stretch
Between Rocky Knob and Peaks of Otter lies a quieter section of America’s favorite scenic drive. Historic Mabry Mill’s weathered wooden wheel turns beside a peaceful pond reflecting brilliant autumn colors, while nearby trails wind through forests ablaze with seasonal beauty.
Abbott Lake mirrors Sharp Top Mountain’s distinctive profile, creating postcard-perfect reflections that change throughout the day.
Peaks of Otter Lodge offers lakeside dining with unobstructed views, though checking NPS alerts before traveling ensures you’ll avoid any unexpected road closures along this beloved mountain parkway.
6. Reddish Knob Summit Adventure
Few Virginia roads climb higher than the paved route to Reddish Knob’s 4,397-foot summit. This mountain drive rewards patient drivers with 360-degree views spanning both Virginia and West Virginia, where endless forested ridges roll toward distant horizons.
Hawk migration coincides with peak foliage season, creating wildlife viewing opportunities alongside spectacular scenery.
The final miles narrow and steepen considerably, requiring slow speeds and courtesy at pull-outs, but the panoramic summit views make every careful mile worthwhile for serious leaf-peepers seeking Virginia’s highest accessible vistas.
7. Lake Moomaw & Bolar Mountain Circuit
Western Virginia’s second-largest lake remains refreshingly undeveloped, with forested shorelines creating mirror-like reflections of autumn’s brilliant display.
Quiet roads curve around Moomaw’s irregular coastline, where hidden coves and peaceful inlets provide solitude rarely found at more popular destinations.
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers hiking trails through mature hardwood forests, while nearby Dan Ingalls Overlook on VA-39 provides elevated views across Bath County’s colorful landscape.
This circuit combines lakeside serenity with mountain vistas, creating a perfect autumn driving experience away from crowded tourist routes.
8. Nelson Scenic Loop & Crabtree Falls
Four separate scenic byways connect to create this 50-mile signed loop through the Rockfish and Tye River valleys.
Rolling farmland alternates with forested hillsides, while local vineyards add cultivated beauty to the natural autumn spectacle surrounding every curve.
Crabtree Falls thunders down a series of cascades framed by brilliant foliage, creating Virginia’s most photographed waterfall corridor.
The falls’ day-use area provides convenient roadside parking just off SR-56, making this natural wonder easily accessible during your scenic loop adventure through Nelson County’s diverse landscapes.
9. Colonial Parkway’s Historic Canopy Drive
This 23-mile All-American Road connects Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown beneath a continuous forest canopy that creates a living tunnel of autumn color.
The original river-gravel pavement adds historic character while maples and beeches arch overhead like nature’s cathedral.
Strategic pull-offs beside the James and York Rivers offer peaceful spots to watch waterfowl while surrounded by reflected foliage.
Brick-arched overpasses near Williamsburg blend colonial architecture with natural beauty, creating uniquely Virginia scenes where history and autumn’s splendor combine in unforgettable roadside moments.
10. Natural Tunnel & Clinch River Country
Southwest Virginia’s hidden gem features a limestone tunnel tall enough to accommodate a 10-story building, carved by centuries of flowing water through solid rock.
This geological wonder anchors a scenic loop through Scott County’s remote hollows, where autumn colors seem more intense in the mountain isolation.
The Clinch River Highway (Route 65) follows crystal-clear waters through forested valleys painted in brilliant reds and golds.
Park overlooks and an optional sky lift provide elevated views across the region’s spectacular fall display, creating memories in Virginia’s most remote corner.