MORGANTOWN — Mountaineer Country has been named one of the nation’s top 20 destinations to see fall foliage.
The USA Today’s annual list highlights the best places across the country to view autumn color. Mountaineer Country, which spans Monongalia, Preston and Taylor counties, was recognized for its widespread mountain views, country roads and abundance of outdoor recreation that make fall a “perfect” season in north-central West Virginia.
Readers nationwide can help decide which location will be honored No. 1. Voting is open online through USA Today, with participants able to cast one vote per day until the contest closes Sept. 9.
West Virginia offers some of the most spectacular autumn scenery in the nation. The rolling hills and valleys surrounding Morgantown and the Cheat River are known for turning vibrant shades of red, orange and gold each October.
According to USA Today’s voting page, “In North Central West Virginia, there’s no shortage of open land. Those rolling rocky hills also show off some of the best fall foliage views in the country. For leaf peeping Mountaineer Country, the overlook at Coopers Rock State Forest is a favorite.”
Visitors are encouraged to plan trips to take advantage of seasonal activities, including stops at Coopers Rock State Forest, Tygart Lake State Park and Cathedral State Park — all popular leaf viewing spots. Scenic roads like U.S. 119 also provide picturesque drives through mountains and small towns.
Winners of the poll will be announced once voting ends, by being recognized it will help spotlight the region as a fall destination worth traveling to. To vote, visit 10best.usatoday.com/awards/mountaineer-country-west-virginia/.
