5 Romantic Fall Foliage Routes in Northern Virginia (NOVA) 🍂✨

Northern Virginia's autumn offers breathtaking hiking routes perfect for admiring vibrant fall foliage. Here are the top 5 romantic fall hiking trails in NOVA: Great Falls Park 🌊🍁 Located along the Potomac River near McLean, this park features stunning waterfall views. Riverside trails offer spectacular autumn colors and majestic river scenery. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park 🏞️🚗 Though part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's easily accessible from NOVA. This iconic drive winds through the park, offering panoramic views of forests and valleys blanketed in fiery fall hues. Billy Goat Trail, C&O Canal National Historical Park 🪨🍂 Nestled along the Potomac River, this historic canal park boasts the Billy Goat Trail, famous for its rocky terrain and riverside vistas. Autumn leaves add a splash of color to the adventure! Meadowlark Botanical Gardens 🌸🍁 Located in Vienna, this botanical garden transforms into a fall wonderland with curated landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant foliage—perfect for a leisurely stroll. Rapidan Wildlife Management Area 🦌🍂 Situated in Culpeper County, this area features multiple hiking trails winding through forests and along rivers, offering peaceful solitude and stunning autumn colors. Pro Tips: 🕐 Best viewing time: Mid-October to early November 📸 Bring your camera for incredible photo opportunities 🧥 Dress in layers as temperatures can vary 🥾 Wear comfortable hiking shoes for better trail experience #NOVAFall #VirginiaFall #AutumnHiking #FallFoliage #DMVOutdoors #RomanticGetaway #NatureLovers