Experience autumn like never before in Allegany County, Maryland.

Our mountains put on a colorful display as autumn rolls in. Vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow blanket the mountainsides, welcoming you with a seasonal embrace from Mother Nature.

But it’s not just the foliage that makes getaways to Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, so unforgettable:

• 70,000 acres of public land offer endless ways to explore. Home to five state parks, one state forest, and one National Park, our parks and forests are playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts looking to break away into nature.
• Named one of National Geographic’s “Top Fall Trips in the World”, the Great Allegheny Passage winds through 150 miles of scenic landscapes before connecting to the historic 184.5-mile C&O Canal Towpath. Together or individually, these international trails shine brightest in the fall.
• Recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the “20 Terrific Train Trips for the Family”, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad delivers a heritage rail experience framed by the colors of the season.
• Voted one of USA Today’s 10Best Places to Visit for Fall in both 2023 and 2024, solidifying Mountain Maryland as a must-see autumn destination.

Pair these adventures with a diverse food scene, arts and culture, historic sites, and cozy lodging, and you have every reason to make Mountain Maryland your next fall getaway.

Top Fall Experiences in Mountain Maryland

Fall in Mountain Maryland is more than just beautiful scenery, it’s an invitation to explore. Ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad through valleys painted in gold and crimson. Bike the world-class Great Allegheny Passage or try a unique rail bike adventure with Tracks and Yaks. For thrill-seekers, our mountain biking trails offer adrenaline-pumping rides framed by autumn color. Prefer to take it slow? Cruise our scenic driving tours and stop at overlooks bursting with foliage. Or, step back in time on the historic C&O Canal Towpath, where 184.5 miles of trail wind through riverside fall landscapes.

Where to See the Best Fall Foliage

Fall in Allegany County is a photographer’s dream. Rolling mountain ridges transform into a kaleidoscope of orange, red, and yellow, with colors peaking from mid-October through early November — earlier at higher elevations. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or cycling, you’ll find unforgettable views around every bend.

Top Leaf-Peeping Spots:

• Dan’s Rock Overlook – Panoramic mountain vistas that stretch for miles.
• Green Ridge State Forest – Remote beauty with endless hiking trails.
• Great Allegheny Passage – A rail trail that becomes a tunnel of color in autumn.
• Rocky Gap State Park – Mirror-like lake views reflecting fall foliage.

Fall Festivals & Events

Trails, Parks & Outdoor Adventures

From rugged forest paths like Green Ridge State Forest to peaceful lakeside strolls at Rocky Gap State Park, Mountain Maryland’s trails, parks, and outdoor adventures offer the perfect way to immerse yourself in the colors and crisp air of fall. Whether you hike, bike the mountain trails of Constitution Park or Dans Mountain State Park, or paddle scenic waterways of the Potomac River or Lake Habeeb, every turn brings a new surprise.

Cozy Food & Drink Experiences

From the first sip of a frothy latte to the last taste of a rich, spiced cider, fall in Mountain Maryland is made for savoring. Our award-winning Mountain Maryland Tap & Pour Tour was named a runner-up for Best Beer/Wine/Spirits Trail in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s 2024 “Best Of” awards and features standout stops like 1812 Brewery, the county’s first farm brewery with hops grown on-site, and Charis Winery & Distillery, home to gold-medal-winning wines and brandy. You can also sip your way through local favorites like Dig Deep Brewing Co. and Locust Post Brewery, each offering seasonal flavors and inviting outdoor spaces.

For a sweeter start, follow the Coffee & Donut Trail to artisan cafés and bakeries. Enjoy ethically sourced brews at Basecamp Coffee Co., or locally sourced maple latte drinks at Clatter Cafe, or fresh-baked peanut butter glazed donuts from Caporale’s Bakery. From cozy coffeehouses in historic settings to farm breweries with mountain views, every stop offers a taste of Mountain Maryland’s fall flavor.

Inspiration & Trip Ideas

More to Consider