Free Falling in Marion: Choose your autumnal adventure

 

Do you feel it? There’s been a chill in the air! It’s only August, but better to go ahead and find your fuzzy socks, scarves and vests before it’s suddenly autumn. Pack up those socks, scarves and vests and start making your leaf-peeping travel plans!  I know what you’re thinking, “In this economy?!” Don’t worry. Fall is free in Marion County! Our sprays of gold, crimson and copper leaves come at practically no cost to you. All you have to do is choose your autumnal adventure!

 

 

A. Valley Falls

Grab your mountain bike and hit the trails. Valley Falls State Park has trails designed for mountain biking and are used for the WV Enduro Series. With a mix of rugged, rocky terrain, steep climbs, and fast, technical descents, the trails are known for their natural obstacles, like roots, rocks and tight turns.  Valley Falls has some easy trails and some technical ones for both tires and legs. Make it a trail run or a leisurely hike — either way, check out the four waterfalls throughout the trail system.

B. Rail trails

Not for flying off mountain sides? Grab a friend and grab a bike at Pricketts Fort. Rent a bike by the hour and take off on more than 18 miles of rail trail. If you’re not much into hills, but you are into fall foliage, the rail trails are flat and will soon be covered with yellow and golden hues. Perfect for a leisurely bike ride, a peaceful walk or the most colorful run of your life!

C. Palatine Park

Fall’s crisp air pairs perfectly with an adventure on the water! Whether it’s a kayak or paddleboard, you’ll have a picture-perfect time at Palatine Park surrounded by what looks like a painting — but it’s your real life! Consider a big adventure and go from Pricketts Fort to Palatine Park (about 8 to ten miles). Make your own triathlon!

D. All of the above

You don’t have to pick just one! Take a weekend and do it all. Grab our pepperoni roll guide to see how Marion County can fuel you through every adventure with the perfectly portable outdoor treat! Find a place to stay close to it all in the heart of Marion County.