Get ready to celebrate! From July 24 to August 2, 2026, the 77th Virginia Highlands...
August 25, 2026
There’s something magical about autumn in Abingdon. Crisp mountain air, vibrant fall foliage, cozy cafés, scenic trails, and community traditions create the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or a solo retreat surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Highlands, fall is one of the most enchanting times to experience Abingdon.
Here are some of the best ways to fall in love with Abingdon this season.
Chase Fall Color On The Virginia Creeper Trail
Few experiences capture the beauty of autumn quite like the Virginia Creeper Trail. As the leaves transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the trail becomes a must-visit destination for leaf peepers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Whether you prefer walking, running, biking, or exploring by e-bike, the trail offers miles of scenic beauty through forests, farmland, and mountain landscapes. Bring your camera and take your time. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy view.
Mile 0 of the Virginia Creeper Trail starts in Abingdon, just a few blocks from historic Main Street, complete with a Virginia Creeper Trail Welcome Center, restrooms, ample parking, and a gift shop, making it easy to visit after time spent downtown.
Rentals and shuttle services are available at the Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Shop, making it easy to plan a seamless ride and enjoy the trail at your own pace.
The lower-section of the trail, from Abingdon to Damascus, or about 17 miles, is open and welcoming trail lovers.The upper-section of the trail, from Damascus to Whitetop, is currently being rebuilt following damage sustained during Hurricane Helene. The full trail is set to reopen March 31, 2027.
Experience the Spooky Side of Town
As the days grow shorter and the nights become cooler, Abingdon’s rich history takes on an entirely different atmosphere.
Join one of the popular Abingdon Spirit Tours led by local storyteller Donnamarie Emmert, the “Haint Mistress” of Abingdon. These guided evening tours throughout the month of October explore the legends, lore, and ghost stories hidden within some of Abingdon’s most historic streets and buildings. Whether you’re a believer or simply enjoy a good story, it’s a memorable way to experience the town after dark. Private Tours are also available throughout the year! Text (276) 706-6093 or email thehaintmistress@gmail.com for reservations.
Throughout October, you’ll also find seasonal and spooky events happening around town. Be sure to check our event calendar for haunted happenings, fall festivals, and family-friendly celebrations. One of the season’s most beloved traditions is Main Street Trick or Treat on October 24, where businesses and organizations line Main Street with trick-or-treat stations to welcome costumed children (and children at heart) for an evening of Halloween fun.
Cast a Line During Peak Fall Fishing Season
Autumn is one of the best times of year to get out on the water.
Book a guided fishing trip with Riverfeet Fly Fishing or Southwest Virginia Outdoor Adventures and experience the area’s pristine rivers and streams with knowledgeable local guides. The cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery, and active fish make for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying fly fishing for the first time.
Take in the Fall Colors Downtown and Beyond
Abingdon shines during fall foliage season.
Downtown’s historic brick sidewalks, charming storefronts, and tree-lined streets become even more beautiful as autumn colors arrive. Grab a coffee, take a leisurely stroll, and enjoy the changing leaves throughout town.
Looking to venture farther? Scenic drives throughout Washington County and the surrounding Blue Ridge Highlands offer incredible mountain vistas and opportunities to experience Virginia’s spectacular fall foliage. The journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
Recommended routes:
Mountain City → Banner Elk Loop (via VA/TN-91)
Abingdon, VA → Damascus, VA → Mountain City, TN → Banner Elk, NC → Abingdon, VA
Take US-58 from Abingdon to Damascus. Head south on VA-91 through Damascus into Tennessee (Abingdon to Mountain City is ~28 miles / ~45 minutes). This is a pleasant two-lane with some curves and rural valley scenery.
From Mountain City continue onto US-421 toward Banner Elk (roughly 30–40 miles / ~50–60 minutes), and take NC-194 S into Banner Elk. Pick up connecting roads that climb into the North Carolina High Country to extend your drive.
Banner Elk sits in classic Blue Ridge ski-country terrain with good views and winding approach roads. Return via a different combination (often involving US-19E / US-321 / Elizabethton area) for variety instead of pure reverse.
Total driving: roughly 3–3.5 hours of pure driving, easily stretched to 3.5–4+ with stops.
Why it works for enthusiasts: Steady elevation, mix of sweeping and tighter sections, high-country feel near Banner Elk, and low traffic outside peak tourist times. Good warm-up loop.
Tazewell + Back of the Dragon
Abingdon, VA → Tazewell, VA → VA-16 (Back of the Dragon) → Marion, VA → Abingdon, VA
Abingdon to Tazewell is typically ~58 miles / ~1 hour 20 minutes (primarily US-19 / US-58 Alt). The classic and most practical approach for this loop is the US-19 route into Tazewell.
From Tazewell, take VA-16 south on the Back of the Dragon. This is the star: 32 miles with more than 400 curves, climbing and descending three mountains (Clinch, Brushy, Big Walker), elevations to ~3,500 ft, tight switchbacks mixed with short straightaways, elevation changes, and overlooks. Plan 45–70 minutes one way depending on pace and stops. Many run it both directions because the character changes completely.
Marion back to Abingdon is short, around 30 minutes. Take I-81 for the quickest journey back or venture along US-11 for a more laid back drive.
Total driving: 2.5–3 hours of pure driving ; very easy to fill 3–4 hours or a full day enjoying the Dragon for expert car/motorcycle enthusiasts.
Why it works: One of the premier technical/mountain roads in the region for cars and bikes. Constant engagement, big elevation changes, and real Appalachian character. Tazewell has a welcome center popular with riders/drivers. The route ventures through Burke’s Garden, Jefferson National Forest, and small mountain communities.
Mount Rogers / Whitetop High Country
Abingdon, VA → US-58 → Damascus, VA → Whitetop, VA / Mount Rogers area → Marion, VA → Abingdon, VA
Head east from Abingdon, VA on US-58 to Damascus, VA (~13 miles / ~20 minutes).
Continue on the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway (US-58) into the national forest. Detour onto RT 600, and then turn onto Forest Road 89 (the highest road in Virginia) to the summit area of Whitetop Mountain (second-highest peak in the state at ~5,520 ft). This is a short but rewarding climb with big views.
Return to US-58 and work north/east through the high country, take VA-16 toward Marion, then return west to Abingdon on US-11 or I-81. Alternatively, extend your route and continue on US-58 to Independence, then take US-21 to Wytheville, and then US-11 or I-81 back to Abingdon, VA.
Total driving: Comfortably 3–4 hours with the scenic pace and Whitetop summit stop. Easily extended to a full day when taking time to explore the vast high country area.
Why it works: Excellent mix of forested curves, high-elevation exposure, and access to Virginia’s tallest peaks (Mount Rogers is the highest at 5,729 ft). Quieter than the Dragon on many days and very scenic. Watch for gravel on the final approach to Whitetop and limited services deep in the forest.
The Snake (US-421) Loop
Abingdon, VA → Damascus, VA → Mountain City, TN → The Snake (US-421 through Shady Valley) → Bristol area → return to Abingdon, VA
Take US-58 from Abingdon to Damascus, VA. From Damascus, take VA/TN-91 to Mountain City, TN. From Mountain City, pick up on US-421 (The Snake). This legendary stretch runs roughly 34–38 miles toward the Bristol/South Holston Lake area and is famous for nearly 500 curves across three mountains and through Shady Valley, TN. Tight technical sections and flowing curves await, with a classic country-store stop in Shady Valley.
Return from the Bristol side via US-11 or a parallel secondary route such as I-81.
Total driving: typically lands in the 3–4 hour window when driven for enjoyment rather than speed.
Why it works: Pure curve density and mountain rhythm. Complements the Back of the Dragon well if you want two different “dragon/snake” style roads in the same region.
Quick Tips for All Routes
Most roads are public two-lanes used by locals, farm traffic, and occasional slow vehicles. Keep speeds reasonable in the tight points and watch for gravel, rocks, or animals.
Gas and services thin out in the high country and on the Dragon; top off fuel in Abingdon, Damascus, Mountain City, Tazewell, or Marion.
Best in clear weather for the views and road surface. Fall color and spring green-up are outstanding.
Pair any of these with a short stop in Damascus (Trail Town USA), Banner Elk or Marion, or an overlook pull-off in the high country.
The Back of the Dragon and The Snake are the highest-engagement options for pure driving fun. The Mount Rogers/Whitetop loop is the most scenic/high-elevation, and the Banner Elk run gives you a nice NC High Country flavor. All four stay well within a comfortable half-day from Abingdon. Enjoy the roads this fall!
Enjoy a Chilling Night at Barter Theatre
Fall theater season brings an extra touch of drama to Abingdon.
This year, Barter Theatre presents Dracula, offering audiences a thrilling journey into one of literature’s most iconic gothic tales. The historic theatre’s intimate setting creates the perfect atmosphere for suspense, making it an ideal addition to your autumn itinerary.
Pair an evening performance with dinner downtown for a classic Abingdon night out.
Embark on a Cozy Coffee Crawl
There’s no better companion to a crisp autumn day than a warm cup of coffee.
Create your own Abingdon coffee tour by starting at The Girl & The Raven before making your way down Main Street to discover more local favorites, including Katbird’s Wine & Gourmet (yes, they have coffee!), Wolf Hills Coffee, Rendezvous International Café, and Krystal’s Café.
Each stop offers its own unique atmosphere and flavors, making it easy to spend an entire morning savoring the slower pace of fall.
Watch Art Come to Life at Plein Air Abingdon
Fall’s colorful landscapes provide endless inspiration for artists, and nowhere is that more evident than during Plein Air Abingdon.
Set for October 7-10, 2026, artists set up their easels across downtown, along scenic roads, and throughout the surrounding countryside, creating works of art in real time. Visitors can stroll through town, watch the creative process unfold, and gain a deeper appreciation for the landscapes that make this region so special.
Learn more at https://www.pleinairabingdon.com/
Savor the Flavors of Fall
Abingdon’s fine dining scene continues to earn praise for its variety, quality, and hospitality.
Enjoy a meal at The Tavern, Virginia’s oldest bar, where rich history and exceptional dining come together. Indulge in great food and warm hospitality at Sisters American Grill inside The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, or enjoy creative dishes and handcrafted cocktails at Rain.
As seasonal menus arrive, you’ll find comforting flavors, locally inspired ingredients, and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer around the table.
Reservations are recommended at fine dining establishments.
Discover Indoor Adventures on Rainy Days
Even if the weather turns cool or rainy, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Abingdon.
Explore The Arts Depot, where rotating galleries and working artist studios showcase regional talent. Visit the William King Museum of Art to experience exhibitions ranging from contemporary works to Appalachian art and culture.
Shoppers and treasure hunters can spend hours browsing Main Street at stores like Zephyr Antiques, where four floors of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds await discovery. (And of course, a performance at Barter Theatre is always a great option when you want to spend a cozy afternoon or evening indoors!)
Get Lost in a Good Book
Autumn and books are a perfect match.
Step inside The Book Cellar and browse shelves filled with a curated collection of used books and unique new gifts. Whether you’re searching for your next great read or simply want to spend a quiet afternoon surrounded by books, this beloved local bookstore feels like something straight out of a storybook.
Pick up a novel, find a cozy corner, and embrace the season’s invitation to slow down.
Sip, Savor, and Unwind
Fall is also the perfect season to embrace Virginia’s wine, cider, and spirits culture.
After a day of exploring, settle in at local favorites like Katbird’s Wine & Gourmet, Tumbling Creek Cider Company, and Sweetbay Brewing Company for a glass of wine, a crisp cider, or a locally crafted brew. The slower pace of autumn invites visitors to savor every moment.
Your Perfect Fall Escape Awaits
Whether you’re cycling through a tunnel of golden leaves on the Virginia Creeper Trail, searching for the perfect pumpkin, browsing a local bookstore, or settling into a seat at Barter Theatre, autumn in Abingdon offers countless ways to create lasting memories.
This season, slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and discover why so many visitors fall in love with Abingdon, Virginia.
Plan your fall getaway and start making memories in Virginia’s most charming mountain town.
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