Field notes · 2026 estimate
When to see peak color at Blue Ridge Parkway
Peak fall color is predicted around October 30. Plan for the strongest viewing window from October 25 to November 4.
The prediction comes from 14 years of fall color records at this spot, checked against what observers on the ground saw. Where state foliage spotters report peak (New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Missouri), it has landed inside our ±5-day window about two years in three. An unusual summer or autumn can still move it further. Explore fall color around Roanoke County and across Virginia.
That is 5 days later than usual (October 26): the six weeks to October 13 ran 3.9°F warmer than the 2001–2025 average, and a warmer run before peak delays the color. This will settle about ten days before peak, as the weather comes in.
Nearby locales
Other places to see color near Blue Ridge Parkway
Under 30 minutes
30 to 60 minutes
1 to 2 hours
2 to 3 hours
- Hanging Rock State Park85 mi · 2 hr 7 minNorth CarolinaPeak: Oct 28Status: Moderate color
- Veritas Vineyards & Winery105 mi · 2 hr 7 minPeak: Oct 27Status: Moderate color
- High Bridge Trail State Park99 mi · 2 hr 15 minPeak: Oct 30Status: Moderate color
- Hungry Mother State Park112 mi · 2 hr 20 minPeak: Oct 23Status: Moderate color
