Found in the heart of Harrisonburg, Hotel Madison is the perfect home base for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley in the fall. When you stay with us, you are close to some of the best places to take in Virginia fall foliage. From attractions only minutes away to places perfect for an autumn day trip, there are endless places near our Harrisonburg hotel to take in the colors of the season.
Where to Visit to See Fall Colors in the Shenandoah Valley
While peak fall colors happen in mid to late October, the exact timing varies year to year. Because of this, a foliage report is your best tool in trying to determine when to plan your visit. The second part of a successful leaf-peeping adventure is knowing where to visit. There are several in both Harrisonburg and the greater Shenandoah Valley area that are perfect to check out on an autumn day.
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Found on the James Madison University campus, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a stunning and convenient option. The paved paths take you through maples and around a pond that reflects the colors.
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The Hillandale Park is a two-mile loop trail right in Harrisonburg. This is a good option for a quick, low-effort walk through the trees.
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Take in the changing leaves from one of the highest points in the state by visiting Reddish Knob. Found within the George Washington National Forest, a narrow, winding road leads you to this spot with 360-degree views over the valley.
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There’s no shortage of places to visit within Shenandoah National Park. Some of our favorites in addition to Skyline Drive include Swift Run Overlook, Bacon Hollow Overlook, and Blackrock Summit.
Tips for Your Leaf-Peeping Adventure
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Popular places like Skyline Drive get packed by mid-morning on fall weekends. We recommend trying to get to these spots earlier in the morning so you get parking and softer light.
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If traveling to Reddish Knob, the road is narrow and unguarded at spots.
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If heading out at dawn or dusk, watch out for deer, especially on Skyline Drive. They’re common and often unbothered by traffic.
Book Your Autumn Getaway to Harrisonburg
From surrounding yourself with fall foliage to visiting a nearby orchard, there’s no shortage of things to do on a Virginia fall vacation to Harrisonburg and Hotel Madison. Located near JMU and downtown, our hotel is centrally located to everything Harrisonburg has to offer. Most importantly, it provides you with a relaxing place to unwind after a day of leaf peeping. If you’re looking for an accommodation with plenty of room to relax without needing a lot of extras, our hotel rooms are perfect for you. For a bit more space and comforts of home, like a full kitchen, reserve one of our suites.
Call 833-564-0200 to learn more about our Harrisonburg accommodations and current special offers.