If you've ever spent a Fall in Southwest Virginia, you know that it's an experience unlike any other. Being surrounded by the Blue Ridge mountains, Southwest Virginia paints one of the most beautiful Fall pictures and there is so many things to do that make Fall such an exciting time to be a Virginian! If you're lucky enough to be in Southwest Virginia this fall, here are some things that you have to put on your Fall bucket list! I promise you won't be disappointed.
1. Hike at least one trail:
There are so many to choose from that you will probably end up hiking more than one. If you get the chance to hike this fall, some trails to discover are Mcafees Knob in Salem, VA, which has a great photo opportunity at the top and over looks the Blue Ridge mountains. If you're looking for something a little bit shorter and a way to spend a foggy Sunday morning, the Cascades in Pembrooke, VA is an easy relatively short hike that ends with a gorgeous water fall. Those are just some favorites, but the trails here in SW Virginia are limitless and none of them will disappoint.
2. Go apple picking:
There are several different orchards to chose from and definitely a fun activity for a group of friends or a first date. You'll leave with tons of apples which means a lot of apple pie in the near future. What's not to love.
3. Drive the Blue Ridge parkway in October:
Coming from someone who was born and raised a few miles from the Blue Ridge parkway, this is something I still do every year. There are several different places to pick up the Blue Ridge parkway and drive to where ever you want to go. There are also several outlooks along the way to stop and take pictures. Mid to late October is the best time because the leaves are in their prime. It truly is breathtaking.
4. Eat at the Home Place:
Probably my favorite Fall tradition of them all is eating at the Home Place in Catawba, VA. If you've never been, the Home Place Restaurant is an old farm house that was turned into a family restaurant where you and your friends will be served home cooked comfort food in the style of your dining room from home. It's the most comforting meal you will ever have and is perfect for when the temperatures start to drop.
5. Go to Scaremare:
Depending on where you are, it could be a little bit of a drive but Scaremare at Liberty University is one of the most epic haunted houses you can go to. People drive hours to get here every year and it's definitely something you have to experience for yourself but it is definitely worth the drive.
6. Go to a farmers market:
One of the best parts about living in Virginia are the authentic farmers markets that are hosted usually every weekend in the fall. If you didn't get the chance to go apple picking you can usually find fresh apples, fresh jams, pumpkins, and all other sorts of goodies at a farmers market near you!
8. Take a trip to Sinkland Farms:
From hay rides to pumpkin picking to all sorts of fun Fall activities, Sinkland Farms is basically your Fall superstore. There are so many things to do this fall, check a few of them out here.
9. Go to a college football game:
Okay, if you're living in SW Virginia, chances are you're a Hokie fan so come out to Lane Stadium and support your Hokies this fall! And if you're not a Hokie fan, make it to any high school or college football game this season! That's what fall is all about isn't it?
