Why You Should Explore Shenandoah National Park in the Fall

If witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Shenandoah National Park fall foliage has been on your bucket list, now’s the time to plan an epic fall adventure. Fall foliage across the Shenandoah Valley starts in September, peaking in mid-October and sometimes even into early November. The higher up in elevation you are, the sooner the colors appear. 

There are so many fantastic ways to enjoy fall foliage in the Shenandoah Valley. From cruising along Skyline Drive or hiking through Shenandoah National Park to visiting the farmers, artisans, and growers throughout the fertile valley, fall colors will be on display around just about every bend. You don’t even have to leave the magnificent grounds of our romantic cabins or Bed and Breakfast to enjoy the expansive, colorful beauty of fall in Virginia. 

Fall is a beautiful season and one of our favorites for getting outside to enjoy various pursuits, such as hiking and biking. The weather here is mild and enjoyable, with average daytime temperatures often reaching into the mid-60s. It’s been a wetter and milder summer here in Virginia this year, which means Shenandoah National Park fall foliage is expected to be vibrant. Don’t miss your chance to see it firsthand by booking a stay at Steeles Tavern Manor, one of the most romantic cabin getaways in Virginia

Our cabins in Virginia are the perfect home base for enjoying the best of this remarkable area. We’re located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley between the exciting towns of Staunton and Lexington. From here, you can enjoy the best of fall in Shenandoah National Park and foliage on the Blue Ridge Parkway, not to mention wine tasting, orchard picking, beautiful fall hikes, and all the other great things to do in the Shenandoah Valley this fall. There’s no better place to call your home base for a few days. Book your cabin getaway in Virginia today! 

Woman enjoying a fall hike in Shenandoah National Park Fall Foliage

Where to See Shenandoah National Park Fall Foliage

It’s no secret that fall is one of the most popular times of year to visit the Shenandoah Valley. That’s partly thanks to the vibrant display of Shenandoah National Park’s fall foliage, not to mention the colors you’ll enjoy along the 400+ mile Blue Ridge Parkway. The landscapes in Shenandoah National Park are beautiful any time of year – including the stark and barren winter months. But when fall foliage peaks and brightens up the landscape throughout September and October, visitors to the park are in for a visual treat. 

You don’t have to travel far from our cabins to witness vibrant Shenandoah National Park fall foliage. The southern entrance is about an hour from our cabins. We recommend you purchase entry into the park in advance so you can use special lanes, reducing your overall wait time. Even with special lanes to access the park, you should still expect a minimum of three hours to make your way along the 105 miles of Skyline Drive – more, depending on how many different times you stop and get out to explore hikes, lookouts, and more. 

Once you’re in the park, there are plenty of fantastic ways to soak up the beauty of Shenandoah National Park fall foliage. It starts, of course, with a trek up Skyline Drive. We recommend you take the time to drive the entire length of this magnificent road. There are 75 overlooks along the road, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and admire the breathtaking beauty of the valley, drenched in fall colors. A few more ways to enjoy the vibrancy of Shendnaoah National Park fall foliage include the following: 

  1. Hike up the Stony Man Trail, one of the most popular Shenandoah National Park hiking trails
  2. Another of the park’s most popular trails is Old Rag Mountain – a fantastic spot to observe Shenandoah National Park fall foliage. 
  3. If you want to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park, make the trek to Whiteoak Canyon
  4. Let us help you pack a picnic, which you can enjoy at one of the park’s many designated picnic areas, such as Elkwallow and Pinnacles.
  5. While you’re hiking and driving through the park, keep an eye out for wildlife. The park is home to various species, including deer and black bear. 
  6. Though it’s not necessarily a way to enjoy Shenandoah National Park fall foliage, this fall is a great time to enjoy the park after dark. It’s home to some of the best night sky viewing in Virginia. 
living room area of the most romantic cabins getaways in Virginia near Shenandoah National Park

Romantic Cabin Getaways in Virginia for Fall

After you’ve enjoyed an afternoon admiring Shenandoah National Park fall foliage, return to your home away from home and enjoy one of the most romantic cabin getaways in Virginia. The cabins at Steeles Tavern Manor are well-located to enjoy the best of the Shenandoah Valley – from the peaks of Shenandoah National Park to the sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. From here, you’ll have easy access to all the top things to do in the valley, including hiking, biking, wine tasting, shopping, and more. 

Fall is an unforgettable time to visit the Shenandoah Valley – and it’s one of the best times to plan a cozy escape to our romantic cabins in Virginia. We offer five unique cabins, each situated on our 50-acre property, to give you your own privacy for the ultimate escape. Each cabin features elevated modern amenities, including well-appointed interiors and fireplaces. In addition to king-size beds, full kitchens, and private decks with individual grills and seating areas, each cabin has its own private hot tub. There’s nothing better than retreating to your private home away from home at the end of the day to a luxurious soak of your muscles.

Guests enjoying romantic cabin getaways in Virginia this fall also have the option to add breakfast or dinner experiences to their stay. These in-cabin dining options, such as our “breakfast like a local” package and our popular “grill your own steak dinner” package, are a great way to elevate your stay. Speaking of elevating your stay – you’ll no doubt be busy enjoying the best of fall in the Shenandoah Valley. Don’t forget to treat yourself to an indulgent and relaxing massage in our Restful Moments Spa

We’re all about the details, and that’s why guests continually rate us as one of the most romantic cabin getaways in Virginia. Book your stay today!

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Join us as we celebrate Independence Day!

Book 3 nights in the Manor (arriving July 2, 3 or 4th) and receive (at No Additional Charge!)
– A 2 hour early check in (2 pm)
-A local cheese ball, crackers, and bottle of wine waiting for you in your room
-Inclusion in our annual pool side picnic with grilled brats, sides and beverages

Mid-Summer Savings

Head for the Shenandoah Valley to escape the Summer heat! Reserve two or more nights in August in the Manor or a cabin and get a 10% discount on the room rate.  Book directly online to receive this special discount.

Bourbon Tasting Anyone?

Elevate your stay at Steeles Tavern Manor by booking a custom bourbon tasting.  With over 40 bottles in our collection, we have something for everyone.  See this package and others on our Packages & Specials Page.

Give The Gift of Steeles Tavern Manor This Christmas

Give your loved one a very special gift of a stay at Steeles Tavern Manor.  We offer gift certificates in many amounts.