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Best Places to See Peak Fall Foliage in the MOV in 2024

Interactive Fall Foliage Prediction Map shows when leaves will peak in 2024

By Karinne Elson, Publisher & Editor, Parkersburg Macaroni KID October 9, 2024

Wondering when the fall leaves will peak in Parkersburg and where the best spots are to see them? Look no further! We've got the fall foliage map and the details on where to go with your family in the MOV area for a colorful fall adventure during the 2024 fall leaf season.

When Will Fall Foliage Peak in the MOV?

Thanks to SmokyMountains.com's interactive 2024 Fall Foliage Prediction Map, you can now easily track when leaves will peak in Parkersburg, Marietta, and the Mid-Ohio Valley. This map uses advanced data like temperature, precipitation, and tree types to predict when fall colors will be at their best. Plus, with real-time user reports, you’ll know exactly when and where to take your kids for the most vibrant fall foliage. 

The interactive Fall Leaf Map has become a go-to resource for families planning fall adventures. Whether you’re looking for the perfect day to go leaf-peeping in Parkersburg, Marietta, and the MOV or planning a family fall weekend getaway, this map will help you time it just right. 


Want to know when the leaves will peak near Parkersburg?
Check out the 2024 Fall Foliage Map from SmokyMountains.com and plan your family adventure today!

You can slide the slider to the right to see the predicted progression of fall.


Where to See the Best Fall Colors in the MOV


Looking for the top places to enjoy peak fall foliage in Marietta, Parkersburg and nearby communities? Here are the most scenic spots for a day of autumn exploration with kids and your family:


1. McDonough Park Wildlife Refuge & Walking Trails

Address: 2196 Rosemar Road, Vienna,WV 26105

My family loves to take fall foliage hikes at McDonough Park. McDonough Park features 5 miles of trails that cater to a range of skill levels, from easy to moderate. The paths are wide and well-marked, with some sections featuring steep inclines. Hikers can choose to tackle the entire 5-mile loop or break it into smaller segments. For those seeking a more accessible option, there's a fully paved trail that allows for a one-mile loop, which can be completed three times.


2. North Bend Rail Trail

Address: 202 North Bend State Park Rd, Cairo, WV 26337

If you're looking for panoramic fall foliage with a flat, paved trail look no further than the North Bend Rail Trail. The North Bend Rail Trail offers a stunning 72-mile journey through north-central and western West Virginia, showcasing the beauty of the Appalachians. As part of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail, this flat wilderness path features 36 bridges and 10 tunnels, including the impressive 2,297-foot tunnel and the eerie Silver Run Tunnel. With multiple entrance points, it's an ideal choice for those seeking beautiful scenery and diverse landscapes, from shaded tree canopies to picturesque farmland. Happy Leave Peeping!


3. WVUP Walking Trail 

Address:  300 Campus Dr, Parkersburg, WV 26104

Located on the campus of West Virginia University in Parkersburg, this trail is an ideal spot to take in the vibrant fall foliage. Students can enjoy a leisurely stroll during breaks, while the community can appreciate the beautiful campus scenery. The trail meanders through a tranquil wooded area, leading to a spacious meadow perfect for autumn picnics. With the changing leaves creating a stunning backdrop, it’s a wonderful place to experience the beauty of the season.


4. Mountwood Park

Address: 1014 Volcano Rd., Waverly, WV 26184

Mountwood Park is a stunning destination to experience the vibrant colors of fall leaves. Spanning 2,000 acres, the park features a well-maintained trail system open year-round, with various options for hikers and trail runners of all skill levels. From family-friendly paths to more challenging routes with elevation gains ranging from 216 to 2,867 feet, there's a perfect trail for everyone. Whether you're planning a leisurely outing or an adventurous hike, Mountwood Park is the ideal spot to immerse yourself in the breathtaking autumn scenery.


5. Buckley Mainland Trail 

Address: 3982 Waverly Road, Williamstown, WV26187

The Buckley Mainland Trails is one of our favorite places to spend an afternoon. When we lived in Williamstown, we visited the Birds and Butterflies Trail nearly every day because it's perfect for a preschooler. Branching off this trail are two additional paths: the Upland Trail and the Riverview Trail. The Upland Trail, approximately 1.2 miles long, features a hilly route that winds through three ravines and ascends to a ridge, offering a glimpse of the upland forest typical of river-adjacent areas, complete with a mix of trees and wildlife not often seen in floodplain regions. These trails offer wonderful opportunities viewing the colors of falls.

Plan Your Family’s Fall Adventures in the Mid-Ohio Now!

With so many family-friendly fall activities in Parkersburg, Marietta, Vienna and nearby communities, now is the perfect time to plan your family fall fun. Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly hikes, free seasonal events, or the best spots to see peak fall foliage, the MOV has something for everyone. Be sure to check the 2024 Fall Foliage Map to ensure you catch the best colors of the season and our Macaroni KID Parkersburg Fall Guide for all the local fall events and fun your family won't want to miss!