As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, fall unveils a breathtaking transformation across the United States. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn foliage attract millions of visitors each year, creating a perfect opportunity for scenic road trips and nature walks. From leaf peeping in Colorado and California to the best fall foliage in New England, here’s how to make the most of this stunning season.
1. New England: The Classic DestinationVermont
When it comes to fall foliage, Vermont is often at the top of the list. The Green Mountains, particularly around Stowe and Woodstock, boast vibrant colors that can be seen from miles away. The scenic Route 100 is a must-see, winding through charming towns and offering panoramic views of the autumn landscape.
New York
The Empire State may be best known for the hustle and bustle of New York City, but it is also a leaf peepers dream. Check the I Love NY Fall Foliage Report to track the onset of fall colors to ensure you don’t go to early or too late. Letchworth State Park(about an hour east of Buffalo) has short and long trails offering prime peeping at every turn (including along the flat, accessible rim trail), along with unique activities like rafting and hot air ballooning. The Adirondacks (a 6-million acre swath of mostly wilderness upstate) is another guaranteed destination for the best fall foliage in New York. However, if you’d prefer to base yourself in fun and fabulous New York City, you can find excellent fall foliage two hours away in the Catskills.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts, particularly the Berkshires region, showcases rich colors against the backdrop of rolling hills. The Mohawk Trail, designated a scenic byway, provides stunning views and access to quaint villages that celebrate the season with fall festivals.
New Hampshire
Just a stone’s throw from Vermont, New Hampshire also offers spectacular fall foliage. The Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile stretch, is renowned for its stunning views and access to hiking trails. Don’t miss the Franconia Notch State Park for breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to see the famous Flume Gorge. Note that you tend to find big crowds here so when I go to New Hampshire, I tend to look for tiny towns and random trails that have the same brilliant colors as the big boys.
Franconia Notch State Park in fall (AndTheyTravel via Getty Images)
2. The Midwest: Hidden GemsMichigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a treasure trove of autumn beauty. The Tahquamenon Falls State Park, with its stunning waterfalls framed by colorful trees, is a top destination. Drive along the scenic M-22 route for views of Lake Michigan, where the colors reflect beautifully on the water. The Upper Peninsula (also known as the UP) is also a popular destination for hiking, biking, and camping so if any of those appeal to you, make sure to work those in.
Wisconsin
As a native Wisconsinite, I can personally vouch for the incredible leaf peeping in the Badger State. In Wisconsin, the Door County Peninsula offers a delightful fall experience, and the autumn colors are particularly striking in Peninsula State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning waterfront views. Make sure to visit the charming small towns up and down the peninsula, where local festivals celebrate the season. However, if you will are drawn to all the things to do in Milwaukee, you can also find gorgeous fall colors and handsome hiking trails in nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest (one of my personal favorite hiking destinations).
3. The South: A Different Kind of BeautyGreat Smoky Mountains National Park
Picture-perfect National Parks are beautiful year-round but they are especially alluring when the colors begin to change in fall. Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best places in the South to witness fall foliage. The park’s diverse ecosystems create a kaleidoscope of colors from late September to mid-November. Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome are popular spots for panoramic views.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning route that showcases the Appalachian Mountains’ fall colors. Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina, this scenic byway offers countless overlooks and hiking trails, making it easy to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn.
Autumn colors in deciduous forest. (Zocha_K via Getty Images)
4. The West: Unique LandscapesColorado
In Colorado, the Aspen trees turn a brilliant gold in the fall, creating a stunning contrast against the evergreen backdrop. Head to the San Juan Mountains, particularly around Telluride, for spectacular views. The Kebler Pass Road is also highly recommended for its breathtaking scenery and less crowded experience. Also note that the National Parks in the summer tend to experience the highest crowds (Rocky Mountain National Park, for instance), but Colorado’s postcard-worthy National Parks can also get crowded in fall so to avoid the masses, visit on weekdays and go early in the day! And to make sure you align with prime leaf peeping, check the best dates for fall colors in Colorado on the Colorado Fall Foliage Map before you go.
Oregon
Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge is a fantastic spot for fall foliage. The vibrant leaves reflect in the numerous waterfalls that dot the landscape, creating picturesque scenes. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Hood River Valley, where apple orchards and vineyards provide a charming fall backdrop.
5. The Pacific Northwest: A Colorful AdventureWashington
In Washington, the North Cascades National Park showcases brilliant fall colors among its rugged peaks. The Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle is another excellent spot to see diverse trees in vibrant colors. Explore local trails for an intimate view of nature’s autumn transformation, consider camping and boating to really take in the grandeur of the park, and pop into one of the visitor centers to learn about local flora, fauna, and the park’s grizzly bear rehabilitation project.
California
While California is often associated with its beaches, the Sierra Nevada mountains offer stunning fall foliage. The Eastern Sierra, particularly around Bishop and the June Lake Loop, is renowned for its golden aspens and stunning mountain scenery. This region typically sees peak colors in mid-October.
Autumn hiking is a great way to experience fall foliage (Maksym Belchenko via Getty Images)
Tips for Experiencing Fall Foliage
1. Timing is Key: Fall foliage peaks vary by region. Generally, mid-September to late October is ideal for most areas. However, if you’re visiting the South, late October and early November are better.
2. Explore Off the Beaten Path: While popular destinations can be breathtaking, consider less-traveled routes and parks for a more intimate experience with nature.
3. Utilize Scenic Byways: Many states have designated scenic byways that offer stunning views and opportunities to stop and explore.
4. Participate in Local Events: Autumn festivals and events can enhance your experience. From apple picking to craft fairs, these activities provide a taste of local culture.
5. Capture the Moment: Don’t forget your camera! The vibrant colors of fall foliage are perfect for photography. Early morning or late afternoon light can provide the best conditions (and tend to have smaller crowds).
The United States offers a spectacular display of nature’s beauty, with numerous destinations to explore in autumn. Whether you prefer the classic vistas of New England or the unique landscapes of the West, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery here. Plan your trip, grab your favorite warm drink, and immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of autumn. With the right timing and a spirit of adventure, you can witness one of nature’s most stunning displays. Happy leaf-peeping!
I’m Cassandra, a freelance writer, guidebook author, and photographer who loves all things outdoors. I’ve written for The New York Times, National Geographic, Wall Street Journal, Lonely Planet, Travel + Leisure, and dozens more. My work tends to focus on sustainability, accessibility, and the outdoors and I have a special love for hiking, biking, and kayaking. I started as a solo traveler, now do a lot of family travel, and also multi-gen and accessible travel.
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Publish date : 2024-09-26 01:02:00
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