26 Top Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.

As autumn paints the landscape in dazzling hues of orange, red, and gold, travelers across the U.S. embark on a vibrant journey to witness nature’s masterpiece. From coast to coast, forests and parks offer a breathtaking display that captivates and enchants all who visit.

The beauty of fall foliage transforms ordinary places into extraordinary destinations, inviting everyone to experience the magic of the season. Whether one is planning a road trip or a weekend getaway, the colorful tapestry of fall awaits, promising unforgettable moments amid the crisp air and stunning scenery.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Our Rating: 9.5/10

In Acadia National Park, autumn transforms the landscape into an incredible canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Visitors can hike the Beehive Loop Trail for panoramic views of the vibrant foliage. With its steep climbs, this trail promises a thrilling experience for adventurers. Another must-see is Jordan Pond Path, where the reflection of autumn hues in the clear water is breathtaking. The calm stroll around the pond is perfect for all ages.

For those seeking stunning viewpoints, a drive or hike up Cadillac Mountain offers wide views of the park’s colorful tapestry. As the highest point on the East Coast, it provides an unmatched spectacle at sunrise or sunset. Subtle sounds of nature enhance the magic.

McKenzie River Scenic Byway, Oregon

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The McKenzie River Scenic Byway in Oregon offers a dazzling display of fall colors. Travelers can enjoy vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows as they drive alongside the river. For those who love outdoor adventures, hiking trails unfold through towering forests and peaceful riverside paths.

Anglers find true delight here, casting lines in the well-stocked waters of the McKenzie River. Photography enthusiasts may capture stunning scenes from various viewpoints, each more captivating than the last. Cyclists, too, embrace the challenge of biking this scenic route, with its breathtaking landscapes around every bend. The Byway promises an unforgettable encounter with nature’s artistry.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Berkshires in Massachusetts offer a stunning autumn experience. Visitors can hike through vibrant trails with breathtaking views. The area is well-known for its stunning fall foliage, painting the landscape in fiery reds and rich golds. Apart from hiking, travelers can enjoy apple picking in local orchards or visit pumpkin patches perfect for families. The crisp mountain air adds an invigorating touch to outdoor adventures, making every activity feel refreshing and memorable.

Cultural enthusiasts enjoy the fall festivals showcasing local arts and crafts. With its mix of natural beauty and charming activities, the Berkshires provide an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable fall getaway.

American Fork Canyon, Utah

Our Rating: 8.5/10

American Fork Canyon, carved through the rocky grandeur of the Wasatch Mountains, is perfect for those seeking the beauty of fall. Visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant hues as the leaves turn in shades of gold, red, and orange.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like the Timpooneke Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon. Bikers and climbers find their thrills along adventurous paths and rugged cliffs. For a leisurely drive, the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway runs through the canyon, presenting awe-inspiring scenery at every turn. With its diverse activities and stunning views, American Fork Canyon makes an unforgettable stop for leaf peepers and adventure seekers alike.

Logan Canyon, Utah

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Logan Canyon is a breathtaking spot for experiencing the vibrant colors of fall. It offers a picturesque drive along U.S. Highway 89, with stunning displays of reds, oranges, and yellows. The canyon is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike through Franklin Basin, exploring trails surrounded by colorful foliage. The area is popular for both its natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Those interested in a scenic drive won’t be disappointed. The Logan Canyon Scenic Byway is an excellent route for absorbing the autumn splendor. Numerous pull-off spots allow for photo ops and impromptu picnics, providing an immersive and enjoyable fall experience.

Park City, Utah

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Park City unfolds vibrant fall colors against the backdrop of majestic mountains. At Park City Mountain Resort, visitors can explore hiking trails that weave through golden aspens, offering a colorful display.

Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway is a highlight, presenting travelers with expansive views of bright autumn shades. It’s a perfect drive for those who love a scenic road trip. Provo Canyon is another favorite spot, where lush forests burst into fiery hues. Families can enjoy picnics amidst the natural beauty.

Sundance, Utah

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Nestled in the heart of Utah, Sundance offers a breathtaking display of autumn colors. Vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows paint the landscape, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy hiking along trails that wind through colorful forests, offering stunning views of the changing leaves.

For a more relaxed experience, the scenic chairlift ride is a must. Riders are lifted high above the treetops, where they can savor panoramic views of the foliage and distant mountains. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of fall at Sundance. As the sun sets, cozy up near a fire pit, sharing stories with family and friends under the starry skies.

Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Buffalo National River in Arkansas bursts into color each fall, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the rich red, orange, and gold leaves by hiking the many trails around Ponca. These trails offer breathtaking views from towering bluffs overlooking the vibrant valley below.

For those who love the water, canoeing along the river provides an immersive experience. Paddling through the crisp autumn air, travelers can enjoy reflections of the colorful foliage in the clear water. Wildlife enthusiasts can also watch for deer and elk roaming the area, adding to the natural beauty and excitement of this seasonal spectacle.

Boxley Valley, Arkansas

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Boxley Valley in Arkansas is a hidden gem for fall foliage lovers. The vibrant colors sweep across the landscape, making it a perfect spot for scenic drives. Visitors can take leisurely drives along the Buffalo National River where bursts of red, orange, and yellow leaves transform the valley.

Boxley Valley is also known for magnificent wildlife viewing. Early mornings often reveal elk grazing peacefully amidst the colorful landscape. Photography enthusiasts find endless opportunities here as the picturesque scenes unfold. Hiking trails offer another way to explore and immerse in the breathtaking autumn scenery. Each turn of the path promises a new view of nature’s brilliant canvas.

Stowe, Vermont

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Stowe, Vermont is a must-visit for fall foliage lovers. Nestled at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, this charming village offers vibrant landscapes that captivate every visitor. The colors transform the hills into a stunning palette of red, orange, and yellow.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking through scenic trails such as Smuggler’s Notch Pass. The crisp autumn air and the crunch of leaves underfoot create an unforgettable experience. After exploring, visitors can relax at local spots like Doc Ponds with its cozy atmosphere and great food. In the heart of the village, shops offer unique finds, adding a perfect end to a day surrounded by the beauty of Stowe’s fall foliage.

Amicalola Falls State Park, Georgia

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia offers a stunning natural retreat. The park’s highlight is the breathtaking 729-foot waterfall, which is Georgia’s tallest. Visitors can explore numerous trails, providing views of the cascading waters. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy hiking the Appalachian Approach Trail or the shorter East Ridge Trail.

For those interested in a more relaxed experience, the reflective beauty of the fall colors can be best seen during a leisurely walk along the scenic paths. The park also offers a lodge with cozy accommodations, making it a perfect spot for an extended stay. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Amicalola Falls State Park provides an unforgettable experience amidst nature.

Plum Orchard Lake, West Virginia

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Plum Orchard Lake in West Virginia comes alive in the fall, offering breathtaking views of vibrant foliage reflected on the water. This 202-acre lake is ideal for a peaceful boat ride, giving visitors a front-row seat to nature’s colorful display.

Fishing enthusiasts will find a perfect retreat here, as the lake is teeming with bass and catfish. The tranquil surroundings make it an excellent spot to cast a line. Hiking around the Plum Orchard Lake Wildlife Management Area offers an immersive experience in the autumn landscape. The trails wind through areas blanketed in reds and golds, making each step an adventure.

Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills

Our Rating: 8.6/10

The Litchfield Hills in Connecticut offer a breathtaking canvas of autumn hues. Visitors can start at Peoples State Forest in Barkhamsted, where the trees first transform into brilliant shades of red and gold. Nearby, the viewing platform on Apple Hill provides panoramic views of Bantam Lake, with a vibrant sea of foliage extending to the horizon.

Explorers can wander along the Little Pond boardwalk trail, savoring the crisp air and stunning landscapes. Afterward, a visit to Thorncrest Farm rewards guests with homemade treats and the chance to meet friendly farm animals, surrounded by the rich colors of the season.

Vermont Green Mountains

Our Rating: 9.3/10

The Green Mountains in Vermont offer breathtaking fall foliage and a variety of activities for visitors. A drive through Smugglers’ Notch Pass provides stunning views of the vibrant autumn leaves. Hiking opportunities abound in the Green Mountain National Forest, where trails weave through colorful forests and lead to impressive views.

Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Green River Reservoir State Park, a prime spot for kayaking and canoeing, surrounded by the rich fall colors. Stowe and Woodstock are charming towns nearby, perfect for a cozy stay after a day of leaf-peeping. Explore the boutique shops and local eateries, and soak in the quintessential New England fall atmosphere.

Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway offers a breathtaking journey through vibrant autumn hues. Travelers can enjoy leisurely drives with endless scenic overlooks, each one offering stunning views that make every stop worth it. The Arnold Valley Overlook is a must-see, offering views that seem to stretch on forever.

Visitors can explore by foot on numerous hiking trails weaving through the colorful landscape. Trails like the ones around Roanoke provide a closer look at nature’s artistry. For those seeking a different perspective, kayaking on the Upper James River offers a unique view of the fall foliage. The gentle river guides visitors through a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows reflected in the water.

West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Monongahela National Forest offers stunning fall colors that blanket its vast landscapes. Hikers can enjoy trails like the one leading up Seneca Rocks, which rises dramatically 700 feet above the ground. This trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and vibrant foliage.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Bickle Knob Observation Tower offers an elevated platform to take in the magnificent hues of autumn. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the brilliant tapestry of leaves. Visitors can also experience the beauty of nature while enjoying a scenic drive through the forest. This adventure reveals hidden gems of vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, making every turn a delight for the senses.

Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled in the heart of Missouri, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways bursts with vibrant fall colors. Visitors can explore its clear, spring-fed rivers, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. These waterways offer serene passages bordered by rich autumn foliage.

Hiking trails wind through lush forests and rugged landscapes. Rocky Creek is a favorite spot for a mix of autumn hues and shallow water crossings. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of unique ecosystems to explore. Camping in the area provides an immersive experience under a canopy of fiery reds and golds. Echo Bluff State Park and Two Rivers offer picturesque locations for setting up camp and enjoying the crisp fall nights.

New York’s Adirondack Mountains

Our Rating: 9.5/10

New York’s Adirondack Mountains are a prime destination for fall foliage lovers. Exploring Ausable Chasm offers thrilling experiences like rafting, hiking, and rock climbing. The vibrant colors surrounding the chasm create a mesmerizing backdrop.

In Lake Placid, stunning views await. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive or simply explore downtown on foot. The brilliant foliage combined with charming shops and cafes make it an unforgettable visit. For a breath of fresh air, Revolution Rail Co. offers a unique way to see the leaves. Pedaling along the tracks, travelers can immerse themselves in the autumn beauty of the Adirondacks.

The White Mountains, New Hampshire

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are a premier destination to experience the fiery hues of autumn. Visitors can drive along the Kancamagus Highway, a scenic byway that offers breathtaking views of red, orange, and yellow leaves.

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking trails like Franconia Notch State Park provide a perfect backdrop for a leaf-peeping adventure. Bretton Woods, a renowned spot in this region, transforms into a vibrant sea of colors every fall. It’s an ideal location for both relaxation and exploration, offering both stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities.

Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Mount Magazine State Park in Arkansas offers an incredible display of fall foliage that transforms the landscape into a vibrant sea of colors. Visitors can hike various trails, each offering stunning views of the brilliant leaves across the mountaintop.

Adventurers will delight in rock climbing opportunities that join the natural beauty with thrilling heights. With the highest point in Arkansas, the park promises unmatched panoramas, perfect for photography or quiet reflection. Camping under the autumn sky adds charm and authenticity to this memorable experience.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Explore the vibrant fall colors at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From early to mid-October, dazzling hues unfold above 4,000 feet. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Kuwohi Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the breathtaking Foothills Parkway.

Clingmans Dome, the tallest peak in the Smokies, offers stunning views of the colorful landscape. For a closer look, the 11-mile loop at Cades Cove is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a peaceful hike. Each bend in the road presents a new splash of color, bringing nature’s artistry to life.

Columbia River Gorge, Washington/Oregon

Our Rating: 9.4/10

The Columbia River Gorge, straddling both Washington and Oregon, offers breathtaking views with its vibrant autumn colors. Visitors can hike the scenic Eagle Creek Trail, where they’ll be surrounded by fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.

For those seeking picturesque moments, Multnomah Falls delivers a stunning backdrop as the rushing waterfall contrasts with the blazing foliage. Travelers can also explore the historic Columbia River Highway, stopping at viewpoints like Rowena Crest for panoramic views.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Each fall, Shenandoah National Park transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery along Skyline Drive, a mesmerizing route through the park. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow leaves provide stunning photo opportunities.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the many trails available, from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular trails like Old Rag and Hawksbill reward hikers with panoramic views of the fall landscape. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the park’s overlooks are perfect for a leisurely day of sightseeing. Each stop offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the park. Whether hiking or driving, Shenandoah is a quintessential fall destination.

Finger Lakes Region, New York

Our Rating: 9.3/10

The Finger Lakes Region in New York is a vibrant spectacle of nature in the fall. Visitors can explore the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail, where they can sip on fine wines while absorbing the fiery reds and golds of the surrounding landscape.

For those seeking adventure, Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures offers an exhilarating treetop journey amidst colorful canopies. It’s a haven of fun for families and thrill-seekers alike. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy a leisurely day at Carolabarb Park, perfect for picnics and hiking. Each lake in the region—Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka—offers unique views and experiences, making the Finger Lakes a top destination for fall foliage lovers.

Canaan Valley, West Virginia

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Canaan Valley, tucked away in the Allegheny Mountains, is a vibrant canvas of autumn colors. Visitors flock to this scenic spot for its breathtaking landscapes. The rolling hills burst with shades of red, orange, and yellow, offering a spectacular view.

Adventure seekers can explore numerous hiking trails that meander through the forest. Each path reveals picturesque views perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. The Canaan Valley Resort provides panoramic views from its scenic chairlift, allowing visitors to enjoy an aerial view of the colorful foliage. For those wanting a peaceful retreat, the area offers cozy accommodations. Nestled amid colorful trees, it’s perfect for relaxation.

Aspen, Colorado

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Aspen, Colorado, is a vibrant fall destination where golden aspen trees rustle in cool mountain air. Maroon Bells is a must-see, offering breathtaking views. The reflection on the crystal-clear lake makes it a photographer’s paradise.

Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy Cathedral Lake and American Lake trails, where alpine scenery is at its peak. Each step reveals unique landscapes adorned with rich autumn hues. A drive along Kebler Pass showcases endless stretches of colorful foliage, perfect for leisurely sightseeing. In the heart of this fall wonderland, Aspen invites visitors to experience a seasonal spectacle unlike any other.

From the vibrant reds of New England to the golden hues of the Rocky Mountains, the U.S. offers countless breathtaking spots to witness the beauty of autumn. Whether you’re chasing scenic drives, cozy small towns, or dramatic mountain views, these fall foliage destinations deliver unforgettable seasonal charm.