Nothing says autumn more than seeing the trees change colors. Some parts of the United States are far more advantageous than others for witnessing this natural phenomenon. Travel with us on a beautiful journey to the 20 best destinations for fall foliage in the U.S.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan: September 25-October 16
The Upper Peninsula in Michigan is known for its beauty year-round. In autumn, sycamore, birch, aspen, and ash trees turn from lush green to gorgeous yellow, orange, and red hues. For an even more spectacular sight, check out the colors from the shore of one of the state’s lakefronts. Mackinac Island is a fan favorite.
Aspen, Colorado: September 15 – October 15
Aspen may inspire thoughts of snow-peaked mountains and skiing. However, those majestic mountains are also an idyllic backdrop for shimmering, golden aspen trees in the fall. Contrasted with Colorado’s bright blue sky, there is no other sight that quite matches this one.
Acadia National Park, Maine: October 7 – October 21
Mount Desert Island’s Bar Harbor has great autumn activities and sights. In Neighboring Acadia National Park, you can enjoy the leaves turning color along the park trails. You can also walk, bike, ride a horse, or even kayak nearby. Explore one of the region’s five scenic byways and discover all of the colors of fall.
Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia: September 15 – October 15
Franconia Notch State Park has been named “One of the Best State Parks in New England. ‘ The park is nestled in the White Mountain National Forest which is known for some of the best leaf peeping in the northeast. Ride the tramway at Cannon Mountain or check out the views from Echo Lake and Flume Gorge.
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico: September 20 – October 10
For southwestern-style autumn foliage, visit Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in New Mexico. Drive a dazzling loop based in Taos around Wheeler Peak. Orange and red cottonwoods, along with purple cinquefoil, set an astounding background for the sparkling aspen trees.
Bald Eagle State Park, Pennsylvania: September 15 – October 15
Just north of State College in Centre County Pennsylvania is Bald Eagle State Park. With over 5,000 acres of forested land and several lookout points, this is a great place for leaf peeping. The greens, yellows, reds, and oranges of diverse vegetation reflect off of Sayers Lake making for showstopping photographs.
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri: October 7 – October 21
Maples, oaks, hickories, and ashes have their colors on full display in mid-October in Missouri. Deep shades of mahogany, scarlet, and gold cover the landscape in Lake of the Ozarks. Experience the leaves while hiking, biking, horseback riding, or golfing in this gorgeous region.
Glacier National Park, Montana: September 15 – October 15
Glacier National Park has evergreens, deciduous trees, and the classic aspen trees you expect to see in that part of the country. The landscape is filled with a myriad of colors from earthy browns and greens, to fiery reds and yellows, all dotted with sparkling gold. It’s a sight to behold and a truly photograph-worthy place to visit.
Wayne National Forest, Ohio: September 21 – October 15
Leaf peepers from all over the United States converge on Wayne National Forest in Ohio in the middle of autumn. The leaves turn vibrant hues that range from deep greens to bright reds and yellows. The fall colors are a great accompaniment to the covered bridge driving tour that spans Washington and Monroe Counties.
Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway, Utah: September 21 – October 7
While Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway isn’t the longest trip, you will find yourself wanting to explore scenic turnouts along the way. The oak and aspen trees blend for a golden-laced fiery spectacle that you will love photographing. The mountain backdrop just adds to the majesty of the place.
The Catskills, New York: September 15 – October 21
Blazing gold and tangerine mountain vistas are the backdrop of the northern Catskills in autumn. Visit the five-state lookout, pick apples, and enjoy rides on horseback in this luscious and rustic area. The very best way to see this fall foliage, though, is by air. Get a bird’s eye view with a helicopter tour of the Catskills.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina: October 15 – November 15
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is nestled along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In late fall, more than 100 species of trees, including oaks, maple, hickories, and sweetgum show their lovely fall colors. The brightness and range of color set this location apart from others as a favorite of leaf peepers.
Stowe, Vermont: September 15 – October 10
Beech, birch, and maple trees are the ones that steal the show in Stowe, Vermont in early autumn. Vermont also has three state parks along the Green Mountain Byway where the colors are vibrant. You really can’t go wrong if you are looking for great fall foliage anywhere in the state of Vermont.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, Massachusetts: October 7 – October 31
The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway offers a captivating 90-mile autumn journey from Salisbury to Lynn. Visitors are treated to vibrant fall colors and charming coastal towns adorned with festive pumpkins. The route meanders through diverse landscapes, including hemlock groves and magnolia swamps, while showcasing historic Gilded Age mansions and First Period houses.
Highland Scenic Highway, West Virginia: October 1- October 31
The Highland Scenic Highway, West Virginia cuts right through the Monongahela National Forest. From stunning maple groves to towering oaks and lush evergreens, this area has some of the best and brightest fall colors in the U.S. Don’t miss the overlooks at the Falls of Hills Creek and the Cranberry Glades for the best opportunities for photos.
Adirondack Park, New York State: September 15 – October 31
The coolest thing about Adirondack Park is that it covers one-fifth of New York State. That means it has an amazing diversity and shows different colors as the leaves change in separate areas all throughout the fall. Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake peak in late September, while maple, cherry, and birch trees along the Adirondack Coast and Lake Champlain don’t peak until the end of October.
Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Idaho: October 15 – November 15
Eastern Idaho’s 28.7-mile loop offers a hidden autumn gem. This hour-long drive showcases golden hues amidst evergreens and features two of the West’s last undisturbed waterfalls: Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. Unlike many tapped-out falls, these flow freely in pristine settings. The route provides quiet spots to pause, surrounded by quaking aspens and crystal river sounds, offering a serene escape from the typical fall foliage crowds.
Old Frankfort Pike Road, Lexington, Kentucky: September 15- October 31
The 16.9-mile Old Frankfort Pike Road, or “Thoroughbred Alley,” connects Lexington to Frankfort through a scenic landscape of horse farms and historic mansions. In fall, sugar maples, osage, and dogwoods create a vibrant canopy of yellow, crimson, and orange. This short drive showcases Kentucky’s pastoral beauty, blending rugged nature with manicured estates, promising unforgettable fall vistas that may redefine your perception of autumn scenery.
Arkansas Scenic Byway 7, Arkansas: October 15 – November 15
The Arkansas Scenic Byway winds through the Ozark and Ouachita mountains. Its curves force a slower pace, allowing travelers to savor the autumn splendor. The changing leaves transform the landscape into a living painting, with river birch, maple, and oak trees showcasing gold and red hues. This route offers a breathtaking journey through Arkansas’s fall foliage, with rivers and forests creating a picturesque autumn tableau.
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