Numerous polls over the years show that Americans favorite season is fall. I am more a summer guy but the changing fall leaves are really beautiful. In this blog post, I share 25 of the best places to see the fall foliage in the U.S.
With each of the places that are in the post, I have provided the best times to see the leaves for each destination. Weather is a key factor to when leaves change color. So, you will want to check with local sources to see when they are expecting peak leaf season for the destination you want to travel to.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park’s rugged coastline provides a captivating backdrop for the fall foliage spectacle. During mid-September to mid-October, the park’s maple, birch, and oak trees transform the landscape into a mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows. Witness the leaves reflecting in the still waters of Jordan Pond, or hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views of the color-changing landscape.
2. The Adirondacks, New York
As September transitions into October, the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York come alive with an explosion of warm hues. Dense forests of sugar maple, oak, and beech trees create a captivating display, especially along scenic routes like the High Peaks Scenic Byway. The region’s vast wilderness offers ample hiking and photography opportunities.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning fall foliage. In early to mid-October, the park’s lower elevations begin to showcase a spectrum of colors, gradually moving up the mountains. The park’s diversity of trees, including sugar maples, hickories, and oaks, contribute to the vibrant display.
4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
During mid-October, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia transforms into a paradise of fall colors. The Blue Ridge Mountains are bathed in brilliant reds, oranges, and golds, making the park’s Skyline Drive an enchanting route for leaf-peeping. Numerous overlooks provide breathtaking vistas of the colorful valleys.
5. Vermont’s Green Mountains
In late September to early October, Vermont’s Green Mountains turn into a masterpiece of fall foliage. Iconic sugar maple trees take center stage, transforming the landscape into a patchwork of vibrant reds and oranges. Scenic drives like the Vermont Route 100 offer breathtaking views of the countryside.
6. Aspen, Colorado
Mid-September is the magic time in Aspen, Colorado, when the iconic aspen groves transform into a golden wonderland. The contrast between the shimmering gold leaves and the evergreen backdrop is a sight to behold. Take the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop for postcard-worthy views.
7. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
From late September to mid-October, the Berkshires in Massachusetts become a haven for leaf-peepers. The region’s rolling hills, charming towns, and historic sites create a picturesque setting for autumn adventures. Take a leisurely drive along the Mohawk Trail for stunning vistas.
8. The Ozarks, Arkansas/Missouri
In late October, the Ozark Mountains reveal their autumnal beauty as the landscape transforms into a vibrant palette of red, orange, and gold. Ozark National Forest is a hotspot for leaf-peeping, with trails leading to breathtaking overlooks.
9. The Catskills, New York
Mid-October is the ideal time to explore the Catskills’ hardwood forests as they burst into a riot of colors. The Catskill Mountains offer panoramic views of the vibrant landscape, and charming towns add to the region’s allure.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
From late September to early October, Glacier National Park’s alpine beauty is enhanced by larch trees turning gold against the backdrop of towering peaks. The Going-to-the-Sun Road provides access to stunning vistas.
11. Denali National Park, Alaska
During mid-August to early September, Denali National Park’s tundra and forests are touched by autumn’s hand. The changing colors of the foliage are set against the backdrop of Denali’s majestic peaks and vast wilderness, creating a unique and breathtaking scene.
12. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Mid-September to early October is a magical time in Rocky Mountain National Park. The alpine tundra and aspen groves change color, adding a new dimension of beauty to the park’s already awe-inspiring scenery. Trail Ridge Road offers panoramic vistas of the transformation.
13. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina
From mid-September to mid-October, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering endless vistas of vibrant foliage. The parkway’s overlooks and hiking trails provide incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s fall display.
14. The Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
Mid-October is the perfect time to explore the Pocono Mountains, where hardwood forests and serene lakes create a peaceful setting for leaf-peeping. The region’s charming towns add a touch of coziness to the fall experience.
15. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Late September to early October is your chance to experience Lake Tahoe’s unique fall transformation. The golden aspens stand in striking contrast against the deep blue waters of the lake, creating a picturesque scene that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
16. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Mid-October is the time when the foliage in Hocking Hills State Park reaches its peak brilliance. The park’s sandstone formations, waterfalls, and vibrant leaves create a memorable and photogenic autumn experience.
17. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington
Late September to early October offers a unique fusion of evergreens, deciduous trees, and cascading waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. The fall foliage, combined with the stunning natural features, makes for an enchanting sight.
18. New Hampshire’s White Mountains
Mid-September to early October is when New Hampshire’s White Mountains become a hub for leaf-peeping. The iconic Kancamagus Highway takes you through a breathtaking range of fall colors, with panoramic views that leave a lasting impression.
19. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico
Late September to mid-October sees the aspen trees of northern New Mexico come alive with golden hues along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. The combination of southwestern landscapes and vibrant fall colors is truly magical.
20. The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Late September to early October is the ideal time to traverse the Kancamagus Highway. The stunning drive through New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers awe-inspiring views of the fall foliage.
21. Door County, Wisconsin
Mid-October paints Door County, Wisconsin, in a rich palette of fall hues. Cherry orchards, forests, and charming coastal towns combine to create a serene and picturesque fall getaway.
22. Mammoth Lakes, California
Mid-September to early October is when Mammoth Lakes in California is transformed by the golden glow of its aspen groves. The combination of vibrant foliage against the backdrop of rugged Sierra Nevada mountains is a sight to behold.
23. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Late September to early October is your opportunity to witness the Tetons adorned with warm fall colors. The picturesque landscape of Jackson Hole becomes even more captivating as the leaves change against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains.
24. North Shore Drive, Minnesota
Late September to early October provides a unique opportunity to witness the North Woods of Minnesota reflected in the pristine waters of Lake Superior. The colorful shoreline and cool breeze create a serene fall experience.
25. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Late September to early October offers a stunning contrast between the Grand Tetons’ jagged peaks and the changing colors of aspen and cottonwood trees. The iconic Snake River and Oxbow Bend provide breathtaking viewpoints to capture the beauty.
Final Thoughts
No matter if you are filling up your gas tank and driving to a destination or you are flying to check out the changing fall foliage, you just can’t go wrong with any of the 25 places that are mentioned in this post.
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