Virginia State Parks has released its first fall foliage report for 2026, with 24 state parks participating in this year's reports.
Fall color is slowly emerging across all regions of the Commonwealth, with most forests still dominated by summer greens, according to the report. Early shifts are appearing in sycamores, dogwoods, tulip poplars and maples, while dry weather has caused some early leaf drop and muted tones. Cooler nights and recent rainfall should encourage more noticeable changes soon.
The parks are also promoting eight fall hikes with mountain overlooks, vibrant foliage and accessible viewpoints, ranging from Lover's Leap to Piedmont Overlook. The Skyline Trail at Natural Bridge State Park is among the highlighted routes.
Parks statewide are preparing for National Public Lands Day on Sept. 26, offering hikes, cleanups, educational programs, volunteer opportunities and family-friendly activities as visitors enjoy the first hints of autumn.
Other events scheduled for Sept. 26 include the 100 Years Hike at Powhatan State Park from 9 to 10:30 a.m.; the ISCA East Coast Open Water Festival at Smith Mountain Lake State Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Outdoor Fest at Pocahontas State Park from 12 to 5 p.m.; the Bio Blitz Series: Fall at Chippokes State Park from 9 to 11 a.m.; the Grayson Highlands Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and "A Miner's Perspective" with Carl 'Gump' Blair and Gene Dunford at New River Trail State Park from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Virginia State Parks said they are hiring, offering job opportunities that help people enjoy, protect and restore the Commonwealth's natural and cultural treasures.