Fall in the United States is a magical time when the leaves change color, painting the landscape with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Here are the 21 best places to experience the beauty of fall foliage in the U.S.
1. White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking fall foliage. Drive along the Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile scenic route with stunning views of mountains and forests.
2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
Straddling the Tennessee and North Carolina border, the Great Smoky Mountains are renowned for their diverse plant life and vibrant fall colors. The scenic drives, like Newfound Gap Road, are particularly beautiful.
3. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is famous for its namesake trees, which turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. The Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in North America, are a must-see.
4. Adirondacks, New York
The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York offer a stunning array of colors. The region’s many lakes and rivers add to the picturesque scenery.
5. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers over 200,000 acres of protected lands with spectacular fall foliage. Skyline Drive provides 105 miles of scenic views.
6. Green Mountain Byway, Vermont
The Green Mountain Byway runs through some of Vermont’s most charming towns and scenic countryside. The region is known for its covered bridges, quaint villages, and rolling hills.
7. Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a hidden gem for fall foliage. The Porcupine Mountains and Tahquamenon Falls State Park are particularly stunning.
8. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” stretches 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views of fall foliage.
9. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge is known for its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. In the fall, the gorge is transformed by vibrant colors, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.
10. Catskills, New York
The Catskill Mountains offer some of the best fall foliage in the Northeast. The area is also known for its charming small towns and outdoor activities.
11. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
Ozark National Forest is a beautiful place to experience fall colors. The forest’s scenic drives and hiking trails offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the vibrant foliage.
12. Door County, Wisconsin
Door County, located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is known for its charming small towns and beautiful fall foliage. The region’s many orchards and wineries add to its appeal.
13. Glacier National Park, Montana
While Glacier National Park is famous for its rugged mountains and glaciers, it also offers stunning fall foliage. The park’s many hiking trails provide excellent views of the changing leaves.
14. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway offers a unique fall foliage experience in the Southwest. The 83-mile loop takes you through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering stunning views of aspen and cottonwood trees.
15. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for boating and fishing, but it’s also a great place to see fall foliage. The region’s rolling hills and forests provide a beautiful backdrop for autumn colors.
16. Mt. Hood Scenic Byway, Oregon
The Mt. Hood Scenic Byway offers stunning views of Oregon’s iconic peak, as well as beautiful fall foliage. The drive takes you through charming small towns and lush forests.
17. Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes region is known for its picturesque lakes and charming wineries. In the fall, the area’s forests come alive with vibrant colors, making it a perfect destination for a scenic drive or hike.
18. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, offers beautiful fall foliage and a variety of outdoor activities. The park’s scenic railroad is a great way to see the changing leaves.
19. Great River Road, Mississippi River
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, offering stunning views of fall foliage along the way. The route takes you through charming river towns and scenic landscapes.
20. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park is known for its stunning alpine scenery and diverse plant life. In the fall, the park’s forests and meadows are transformed by vibrant colors.
21. Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
The Pocono Mountains offer a classic fall foliage experience with their rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns. The region’s many lakes and rivers add to its picturesque beauty.
Tips for Viewing Fall Foliage
- Timing is Key: The peak foliage varies by region and year, so check local foliage reports to plan your visit at the right time.
- Scenic Drives: Many of the best foliage spots are accessible by car, so consider taking a scenic drive to see the colors.
- Hiking: Hiking trails often provide the best views of fall foliage. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions.
Fall foliage in the United States offers a spectacular show of nature’s beauty. Whether you’re driving along scenic byways, hiking through national parks, or exploring charming small towns, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the vibrant colors of autumn.