West Virginia Releases 2022 Fall Foliage Map
The West Virginia Department of Tourism has released a fall foliage map that predicts peak color in areas across the state. Created with data reports from the West Virginia Division of Forestry, the map shows that the Allegheny Mountains, which include scenic destinations like Blackwater Falls State Park and the Monongahela National Forest, are projected to peak first in late September.
The rest of the state should gradually peak throughout October. Top recreational areas like Tygart Lake State Park and Coopers Rock State Forest are supposed to peak at the beginning of the month, Cedar Creek and Lost River State Park in the middle, and the Gauley River National Recreation Area, the New River Gorge National Park, and Watoga State Park should see the brightest bursts of color as Halloween approaches.
The Department of Tourism also announced that they have a live leaf map to keep track of the foliage throughout the season.
Damascus Trail Center Opens Saturday
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) and the southwestern Virginia town of Damascus announced that the new Damascus Trail Center will officially open to the public this Saturday, August 27 at 10 a.m. The center will serve as an outpost for trail stewardship by providing exhibits and programming for volunteers and visitors, along with information on local attractions and recreational areas, backcountry skills, and conservation practices and training.
“Damascus has always been an iconic part of the Appalachian Trail experience, so it’s hard to imagine a more appropriate place for the new Trail Center to call home,” said Sandra Marra, President and CEO of the ATC. “We are excited to work with the town to ensure the Damascus Trail Center provides opportunities for hikers, bikers, and adventurers of all ages and experience levels to better enjoy and care for our irreplaceable great outdoors.”
The Trail Center’s location is right in the heart of downtown Damascus, positioning it near the area’s most iconic trails, including the Appalachian Trail, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, and the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail. Starting tomorrow, the Trail Center will be open Thursday-Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Events celebrating the grand opening begin today and include the following:
- Friday, August 26 at 6 p.m. – Run Damascus Fun Run 5K
- Friday, August 26 at 7 p.m. – Beaverdam Friday Jams featuring Beth Snapp Band
- Saturday, August 27, 9 a.m. to noon – Farmers Market
- Saturday, August 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Damascus Trail Center Activities including partner expo, nature walks and gear giveaways from Allyn “Fix it Man” Morton
Cover Photo: The Damascus Trail Center. Photo courtesy of the Town of Damascus.
