As the crisp autumn air settles over the Capital Region, the rolling hills and historic landscapes surrounding Washington, D.C., undergo a breathtaking transformation. The vibrant greens give way to a spectacular tapestry of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows, making it the perfect time to escape the city bustle for a scenic drive.
Grab your favorite autumn playlist, a warm beverage, and get ready to explore some of the most picturesque fall drives in Maryland, Virginia, and right here in D.C.'s backyard.
Virginia Visions
Skyline Drive (Shenandoah National Park, VA) This is the undisputed king of fall foliage drives. Running 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive offers nearly continuous panoramic vistas. The higher elevations transform first, usually peaking in late October to early November.
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Pro Tip: Go on a weekday if possible, as weekends can get very crowded. An entry fee is required for Shenandoah National Park.
Spotsylvania County Battlefield Tour (Spotsylvania, VA) This route offers a compelling mix of history and fall color. The driving tour connects several key points of the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, where the fields and forests — which saw intense Civil War action — now blaze with autumn brilliance.
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Pro Tip: Stop at the Spotsylvania Battlefield Visitor Center to pick up a map. The surrounding, well-preserved areas offer quiet, thoughtful viewing of the fall colors alongside important historical markers.
Route 208 to Lake Anna State Park (Spotsylvania, VA) Take Route 208 toward the western side of the county to Lake Anna. This drive offers views of central Virginia's rural landscape before leading you to the park entrance. Once there, the dense forests surrounding the lake's shores provide brilliant foliage reflected in the water.
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Pro Tip: The park offers over 15 miles of trails. Park the car and hike the Bushey Point Trail for the best views of the fall canopy at water level.
George Washington Memorial Parkway (VA & MD) You don't have to go far for beauty! This scenic roadway parallels the Potomac River from Mount Vernon to Great Falls. In autumn, the trees lining the parkway and the riverbanks offer stunning views of the Potomac and various historical sites.
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Pro Tip: Combine your drive with a visit to Old Town Alexandria or Mount Vernon.
Snickersville Turnpike (Aldie to Bluemont, VA) A charming, historic road that cuts through the heart of Loudoun County's horse country and wine region. Expect narrow, winding roads, stone walls, beautiful farms, and forests ablaze with fall colors.
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Pro Tip: This area is dotted with wineries and breweries — perfect for a post-drive tasting (with a designated driver, of course!).
Leesburg to Harpers Ferry (Route 9, VA & WV) While not exclusively in Virginia, this drive begins in historic Leesburg and crosses into West Virginia, ending at the picturesque confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. The rolling hills and river valleys provide a diverse palette of fall colors.
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Pro Tip: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a must-see destination, offering incredible views, hiking trails, and a deep dive into Civil War history.
Maryland Marvels
Sugarloaf Mountain Scenic Byway (Frederick County, MD) Just an hour northwest of D.C., this route winds around the privately-owned Sugarloaf Mountain. Expect stunning panoramic views from the summit, surrounded by agricultural lands and forested hillsides bursting with color.
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Pro Tip: Hike up to the top for 360-degree views, and grab fresh produce from local farm stands nearby.
Historic National Road (US-40) - Frederick to Boonsboro, MD Travel a section of America's first federally funded highway. This drive offers a mix of small historic towns, antique shops, and stretches of road lined with mature trees that show off their fall colors at their best.
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Pro Tip: Stop in Frederick for its charming downtown area and consider taking a detour to nearby Greenbrier State Park for stunning views of the reservoir.
Patuxent River Scenic Byway (Southern MD) If you're looking for a quieter, more pastoral fall experience, head south. This byway takes you through Calvert County, offering views of the Patuxent River, historic sites, and woodlands near the Chesapeake Bay.
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Pro Tip: Explore Calvert Cliffs State Park for a hike and bay views.
D.C.'s Doorstep Delights
Rock Creek Parkway (Washington, D.C.) Right within the city limits, Rock Creek Park offers a surprising urban escape. The parkway winds through a dense urban forest that absolutely glows with fall colors, offering an accessible and beautiful way to see foliage.
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Pro Tip: On weekends and holidays, parts of Beach Drive are closed to vehicular traffic, making it an ideal spot for walking or biking amidst the fall foliage.
Potomac River Road / Clara Barton Parkway (Potomac, MD) This scenic drive runs along the Potomac River, offering tranquil views and stunning tree-lined tunnels when the foliage is at its peak. It's a peaceful drive, less crowded than some other options, yet still close to D.C.
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Pro Tip: This area serves as the gateway to the Maryland side of Great Falls National Park, where you can witness the Potomac's power amidst vibrant fall colors.
November is a magical time to explore the vibrant landscapes surrounding Washington, D.C. Whether you prefer grand mountain vistas, historic battlefields, or quiet country roads, there's a perfect fall drive waiting for you. So, fuel up, roll down your windows, and let the beauty of autumn inspire you!
