See The Beauty Of West Virginia's Fall Foliage On This Trail Connecting Two State Parks

As the fall days begin to get a little shorter and darker, there's one thought that can help brighten up pretty much anyone's mood: the fact that fall is an excellent time to get outside, soak up nature, and enjoy a good old-fashioned hike. Because, as the leaves start to change color and the temperature begins to dip, there's nothing like a fresh sense of adventure to explore — one where even the most familiar and well-worn trails can feel completely new.

From beautiful Midwest spots drenched in fall foliage views to pedaling your way through the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York, there are plenty of opportunities to get your fill in terms of fall scenery and fresh air. However, away from the popular spots, it's the hidden destinations that truly shine. One of these ideal spots for some prime leaf-peeping is tucked away in the hills of West Virginia. Enter: the Bluestone Turnpike Trail.

Running from Bluestone State Park to Pipestem Resort State Park in southern West Virginia, the 9.5-mile one-way hike is a moderate trek that typically takes about four or five hours to complete. Following the course of the Bluestone River, the trail provides hikers with plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the colorful fall leaves reflected in the water.

In terms of fall scenery, the Bluestone Turnpike Trail offers a unique journey through a deep river gorge that's equal parts serene and rugged. Kicking off inside the Bluestone State Park limits and following the course of the Bluestone River — a waterway that's been officially designated as a National Wild and Scenic River — the trail hugs the riverbank for the first couple of miles before ascending. Flanked on one side by the water and on the other by a series of rocky walls, you'll feel completely immersed in nature. Meanwhile, above your head, the towering trees create a natural canopy that's even more impressive during autumn, when the golden, orange, red hues take up most of the view.

As you move through the gorge, the trail begins to change, climbing away from the river and toward higher ground. And as the path changes, so does the scenery — with open meadows and fields of wildflowers stretching before your eyes. Roughly halfway through the trek, you'll come upon the old site of the town of Lilly — one of the first Appalachian settlements that stood there until the mid-1900s, when residents were forced to move for fears of flooding after the Bluestone Dam was built.

After Lilly, the trail joins the river once again until you reach your destination at Pipestem Resort State Park, where you can once again find access to modern amenities like comfortable cabins for an overnight stay, zip-lining and other outdoor activities, fishing spots, and more.

If you're starting to feel like the Bluestone Turnpike Trail is a must-have on your fall bucket list, you'll be happy to learn that the trail is open year-round with direct access through Bluestone State Park and Lilly, and allows for seasonal access from Pipestem Resort State Park. However, it's also worth noting that, depending on the weather — and especially during the rainier months — some sections of the trail might be inaccessible, which means you might have to turn back.

Along with that, it's also important to note that the trail doesn't allow overnight camping due to the fact that it runs through a wildlife management area. With that in mind, it's essential that you plan your hike accordingly in order to avoid getting caught out in the dark. As for other general safety considerations, remember to always pack the necessary hiking gear, bring enough water to stay hydrated and safe, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and carry a waterproof layer in case the weather does turn unexpectedly.

Lastly, dog owners will also be glad to hear that the Bluestone Turnpike Trail is perfect for their four-legged companions to come along as well. Nonetheless, if you do bring your furry friend with you, make sure you follow the park's guidelines — this includes ensuring they're leashed at all times, keeping them away from the local wildlife, and making sure to correctly dispose of dog poop during the hike.