Fall is a special time in Virginia, with the landscape transforming from green to beautiful shades of red, orange and gold. While you can enjoy the season with a leisurely hike or paddle on your own, there’s something special about experiencing fall foliage with a Virginia State Parks ranger as your guide. 

This season, parks across the state are offering a variety of ranger-led activities designed to help you enjoy fall colors in unforgettable ways. Whether it’s a walk through the woods, a peaceful paddle on the water or a cozy hayride, these programs offer more than just great views, they create memories. 

Guided hikes and walks 

Natural Bridge State Park  

Step into the forest alongside a ranger who knows the trails like the back of their hand. Guided hikes and walks are tailored to highlight the best spots for leaf peeping, while also teaching you about the trees, wildlife and history that make each park unique. Instead of just admiring the colors, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the ecosystems that bring them to life. 

• Fall Foliage History Walk at Douthat State Park
  • Oct. 3, 10, 24, 31 
• Chameleon Colors and Fall Colors Hike at Hungry Mother State Park
  • Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25 
• Fall Colors Tree ID Hike at Powhatan State Park
  • Oct. 4, 12, 18 
• Sensory Explorers’ Trail Fall Walk Series at Sky Meadows State Park
  • Oct. 4, 25 and Nov. 1, 15 
• Fall Foliage Guided Hike at Grayson Highlands State Park 
  • Oct. 5 
• Fall Colors Hike at Natural Tunnel State Park 
  • Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 
• TREE-mendous Hike at Sweet Run State Park 
  • Oct. 5 
• Women’s Walking Group at New River Trail State Park
  • Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 
• Homeschool Series: Fall Foliage Hike at Leesylvania State Park 
  • Oct. 10  
• Fall into Birding at Powhatan State Park 
  • Oct. 11 
• Fall Leaf ID Hike at New River Trail State Park 
  • Oct. 19 
• Step Into Fall at Clinch River State Park 
  • Oct. 24 
• Fall in Love with Hiking at Twin Lakes State Park 
  • Oct. 26 
• A Fall Tree-mendous Hike at Sky Meadows State Park 
  • Nov. 1 
• After Thanksgiving Hike at Clinch River State Park 
  • Nov. 28 

Dates, registration requirements, age limits and fees vary by park. Please click on the links above or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/events to learn more. 

Ranger-led paddles 

Douthat State Park  

For a different perspective, join a paddle along one of Virginia’s scenic rivers, lakes and bays. The calm waters mirror the foliage above, offering breathtaking reflections you can only see from a kayak or canoe. During the paddle, a ranger may share insights about aquatic habitats, migratory birds and the park’s cultural history. 

• Sunset Float at Westmoreland State Park 
  • Sept. 30 
• Sunset Kayak Paddle at False Cape State Park 
  • Oct. 2, 16 
• Canoe of Many Colors at Douthat State Park 
  • Oct. 3, 10, 24, 31 
• Kayak with Monarchs at Caledon State Park 
  • Oct. 4 
• Fall Foliage Paddle and Paddle in the Park at Hungry Mother State Park 
  • Oct. 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29 
• Kayaking Tour at Seven Bends State Park 
  • Oct. 11 

Dates, registration requirements, age limits and fees vary by park. Please click on the links above or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/events to learn more. 

Fall hayrides 

Leesylvania State Park 

Few things feel more like autumn than a hayride. At select parks, ranger-led wagon rides carry you through wide-open fields and forest edges. It’s the perfect family-friendly way to take in the sights without having to lace up your hiking boots. 

• Fall Foliage Hayrides at Claytor Lake State Park
  • Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, Nov. 1, Nov. 8, Nov. 15
• Fall Peeks Wagon Rides at Natural Bridge State Park 
  • Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25 
• Fall Hayrides at Natural Tunnel State Park 
  • Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25 
• Fall Foliage Wagon Rides at Shenandoah River State Park 
  • Oct. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 31 
• Fauquier County Fall Farm Tour at Sky Meadows State Park 
  • Oct. 4 
• Harvest Celebration at New River Trail State Park 
  • Oct. 11 
• Fall Festival at Twin Lakes State Park 
  • Oct. 11 
• Finding Fall and Fall Foliage Fun at Caledon State Park 
  • Oct. 12, 18 and Nov. 8 
• Harvest Festival at Chippokes State Park 
  • Oct. 18 
• Hayride and Pumpkin Caving at Clinch River State Park 
  • Oct. 25 
• Fall Festival at Leesylvania State Park 
  • Oct. 25 
• Haunts and Hunts at Occoneechee State Park 
  • Oct. 25 

Dates, registration requirements and fees vary by park. Please click on the links above or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/events to learn more. 

Why choose a ranger-led activity? 

Virginia State Parks ranger 

Exploring a state park on your own is always rewarding, but joining a ranger-led program takes the experience to the next level. Here’s why: 

• Insider knowledge: Rangers know the best times and places to catch peak foliage, ensuring you don’t miss the most stunning views. 
• Storytelling: Beyond the colors, rangers share the stories of the land. 
• Connection: These programs foster community. Whether you’re with family, friends or fellow visitors, you’ll share the wonder of the season together. 
• Ease: No need to plan your route or guess at what you’re seeing. Just show up, and your ranger will take care of the rest. 

Plan your visit 

Ranger-led fall foliage programs are offered at many Virginia State Parks throughout the season. Schedules vary by location, so be sure to check the park’s events calendar at www.virginiastateparks.gov/events before your visit. 

To complete your stay, consider booking a cabin, campsite or yurt. To find available overnight accommodations, please go to https://reservevaparks.com.