Top Ways to Leaf Peep in Shenandoah County, Virginia

Shenandoah County, Virginia (August 19, 2025) – Each fall, hundreds of thousands of motorists journey along Skyline Drive, the world-famous byway that passes through Shenandoah National Park, to take in the brilliant colors of autumn leaves. It's a sight to behold, and something every traveler should experience at least once in their lifetime.

But did you know that just beyond the national park, in Shenandoah County (named for the same river the park was named for), you can see those same species of trees displaying the same array of glorious colors? And you don't necessarily have to be in your vehicle, traveling slowly behind plenty of others, to experience it. Shenandoah County offers countless ways to witness Mother Nature's greatest show at your own pace and with varying degrees of adventure thrown into the mix.

Here's a list of some of our favorite ways to leaf peep in Shenandoah County this fall, going from mild to a little more wild:

Traversing a Covered Bridge: Located off historic Route 11 in the town of Mount Jackson, Meems Bottom Covered Bridge was built in the 1890s. At 204 feet, it's the longest existing covered bridge in the state of Virginia … and it's still open to vehicular traffic. It doesn't take long to drive across the one-lane bridge, but it's a charming experience and you can stop on one side to get the perfect fall photo.

Playing a Round of Golf: At Shenvalee Golf Resort in the town of New Market, an 18-hole round takes you on two of the resort's three nine-hole courses, each of which offers a great view of the mountains and the splendor of changing leaves. The “Olde Course,” which dates to 1927, is perfect for those who prefer to walk, and traveling by foot gives you some additional time to truly enjoy your surroundings.

Fly Fishing: The town of Edinburg is home to Murray's Fly Shop, which has been offering classes and guided fishing tours of the waterways around the Shenandoah Valley since 1962. The shop's owner, Harry Murray, is a legend among fly-fishers, perfecting his own lines of lures and rods (available for purchase at the shop) and authoring books about the sport. Harry and his team welcome every sort of angler, from first-timers through experts, for fly-tying and fishing lessons.

Climbing a Tower: For an incredible view of the Shenandoah River, you should make the climb up Woodstock Tower. The structure was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and those who climb to its top get to see the river from more than 2,000 feet above the ground. From this vantage point – which offers a 360-degree view of the valley – it's possible to count all Seven Bends in the river's North Fork. As a bonus: On a clear day, you can actually see as far as Shenandoah National Park.

Braving a Swinging Bridge: Speaking of those bends … Seven Bends State Park in Woodstock is a perfect place for some birdwatching or a family-friendly hike. There's even a playground for the youngest adventurers. For those who want something a little more daring, consider crossing the short swinging bridge. You must commit to going over and right back, as the bridge connects to private property on the opposite side, but you get a great view of the leaves, sometimes even reflected in the water below.

Harvesting Grapes at a Vineyard: Shenandoah County is home to eight wineries, each one special in its own ways. Muse Vineyards, which is located right next door to Seven Bends State Park (you can walk from the park to the winery), has its own 225-year-old farmhouse that's now available to rent on Airbnb. If you book the house during harvest time, you can help Muse's owners and staff pick grapes. If you prefer not to have to work for your wine, you can also simply sip and enjoy the views during a visit to the tasting room.

Riding a Chairlift: Bryce Resort offers year-round fun and adventure, from skiing in the winter to water-based activities on Lake Laura throughout the summer. In the warmer months, plenty of mountain bikers come here to get their thrill on, and they take a chairlift to the top of the mountain to begin their adrenaline-pumping descent. But those who prefer a little less adventure can enjoy that lift, too. Anyone can take the 10-minute round trip, which allows for glimpses of leaves all the way to the West Virginia border.

Taking a Guided Horseback Ride: George Washington National Forest spreads across parts of West Virginia and Virginia and offers unparalleled natural beauty. It's perfect for backpackers, but you can turn up the volume of adventure by exploring with an equine companion. Family-run Fort Valley Ranch offers half-day and full-day rides for guests ages 10 and up, plus a 2.5-hour lunchtime ride that includes a picnic. Besides leaves of many colors, it's possible to spot an array of wildlife during a ride, including plenty of birds.

No matter which of these activities is most appealing to you and your level of adventure, it's not too soon to start planning your fall trip to Shenandoah County. Hotels and Airbnb's book up fast, so choose some dates and prepare to go full-on fall. Check here to start dreaming: https://visitshenandoahcounty.com/.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT
Mindy Bianca
mindy@mindybiancapr.com
919-200-6060