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. 

Here's a sample of guided hikes and walks you can look forward to this fall.

October

• Fall Colors Hike at Hungry Mother State Park
• Fall Foliage Frolic at Hayfields State Park
• Stock Creek Fall Colors Hike, Lovers' Leap Fall Colors Hike, Purchase Ridge Fall Colors Hike and Birding Trail Fall Colors Hike at Natural Tunnel State Park
• Sensory Explorers’ Trail Series: Fall Habitat Detectives at Sky Meadows State Park
• Fall Women's Wellness Forest Therapy Walk at Shenandoah River State Park
• Fall Basic Tree ID Walk at Green Pastures Recreation Area 

November

• Sensory Explorers’ Trail Series: Fall Tree-mendous Hike at Sky Meadows State Park
• Fall Women's Wellness Morning Walk and Stretch at Shenandoah River State Park

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. All programs are weather-dependent and subject to cancellation. 

Ranger-led paddles 

Lake Anna 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. 

Here’s a glimpse of the water-based adventures you can join this fall. 

September

• September Morning Paddle at Bear Creek Lake State Park
• Twilight Kayak Tour at Widewater State Park
• Paddle on the Potomac and Moonlight Paddle at Westmoreland State Park 
• Sunset Kayak Paddle and Morning Kayak Paddle at False Cape State Park 
• The Lost Lighthouses of York River at York River State Park
• What's SUP with Paddling, Paddle in the Park and Early Morning Kayak Tour at Hungry Mother State Park  
• Morning and Evening Paddle Adventures at Mason Neck State Park 
• Persimmon Paddle at Pocahontas State Park  

October

• Guided Kayak Paddle and Guided Canoe Tour at Twin Lakes
• Kayak with Monarchs at Caledon State Park
• Paddle on the Potomac at Westmoreland State Park 
• Paddle in the Park and Early Morning Kayak Tour at Hungry Mother State Park   
• Full Moon Kayak Tour at Widewater State Park

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. All programs are weather-dependent and subject to cancellation. 

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. 

Here’s a small preview of hayrides you might find at parks this fall.

October

• Fall Foliage Hayrides at Claytor Lake
• Fall Farm Day and Fall Foliage Festival at Sky Meadows State Park
• Fall Peeks Wagon Ride at Natural Bridge State Park
• Finding Fall at Caledon State Park
• Fall Hayrides at Natural Tunnel State Park 
• Harvest Celebration at New River Trail State Park 
• Fall Festival at Twin Lakes State Park 
• Fall Fun Fest at Hungry Mother State Park
• Harvest Festival at Chippokes State Park 
• Fall Festival at First Landing State Park 
• Homestead Heritage Day at Sweet Run State Park
• Fall Festival at Leesylvania State Park

November

• Fall Foliage Fun at Caledon State Park

Dates, registration requirements and fees vary by park. Please click on the links above or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/events to learn more. All programs are weather-dependent and subject to cancellation. 

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.