5 Things to do this Fall in Hunt Country
Hunt Country in the Fall, as those of you who visit here or live here know, is a sight to behold. Reds, oranges and yellows become the trending color palette, the air grows chilly and light, and everyone seems to be in a mood of refreshing positivity as the summer heat resides. We have to admit, Fall is our favorite season. And no wonder, we are publishing this quick guide on the second day of Fall (impeccable timing), in the hopes that you will seek out and explore all that Hunt Country has to offer during this wonderful season.
5 THINGS TO DO THIS FALL IN HUNT COUNTRY
- Get Outside!
Hunt Country has a vast expanse of hiking trails (you can explore sections of the Appalachian Trail if you’re feeling extra adventurous!) and views that require a bit of elevation gain but are well worth it. Take the incredibly scenic trip to Skyline Drive, the stunning thruway of Shenandoah National Park, to enjoy sweeping views of the rolling Virginia countryside and farmland. Stay a little closer to town and head to Sky Meadows State Park, home to beautiful trails, a vast array of wildlife, and views of Virginia’s Piedmont. By the way, a stroll through any of the quaint towns that dot Hunt Country’s rambling roads counts as “getting outside” and you can support local while going from shop to shop!
2. Head to the Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchards
Oh yes, Hunt Country has many, many wonderful orchards and pumpkin patches to choose from for that perfect Fall weekend activity! Support local farms while stocking up on every apple variety you didn’t know existed (homemade apple crisp, anyone?) and picking the best (or weirdest looking for a spookier effect) pumpkins at the pumpkin patch. We love Great Country Farms (bonus, head up the hill to Dirt Farm Brewing or Bluemont Vineyard for a libation after all of that picking!) and Crooked Run Orchard, but there are so many more in and around Hunt Country!
3. Attend Equestrian Events
Even if you are not an equestrian yourself, spectating at any horse-centric event in Hunt Country is exciting and well-worth the time to soak it all in. There is a reason we are also referred to as “Horse Country”! From horseracing to foxhunting, polo games and showjumping, Hunt Country is filled to the brim with equestrian events to enjoy. On our calendar for this fall season are The Virginia Fall Races, The International Gold Cup, The Morven Park International and Fall Horse Trials and more! P.S. curious about the sport of foxhunting, our namesake? Take a look at these Insider’s Guides to foxhunting we published previously to get a quick intro to this sport.
4. Enjoy the Farmer’s Markets
This one is a given. There are SO many amazing farmer’s markets in and around Hunt Country that showcase the work and expertise of local farmers, makers and vendors. We have the Archwood Green Barns Farmer’s Market, the Middleburg Farmer’s Market, Buchanan Hall Farmer’s Market, the Marshall Farmer’s Market and the Warrenton Farmer’s Market on a steady rotation!
5. Eat, Sip and Shop Local
Need we say more? Dine and sip at locally owned restaurants and eateries, pubs and bars, and shop at locally owned small businesses. With the turn of the season brings new cuisine (hello pumpkin soup and apple fritters) at restaurants, new drinks to savor (maple old fashioned, anyone?) and new offerings from local businesses (cozy sweaters, stylish boots, cold-weather skincare!). Now is the time to get out there and celebrate the new season by loving all that local has to offer!
