As summer fades into memory and the crisp air of autumn settles in, parts of the United States transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Fall foliage is one of nature’s most stunning displays, and there arenumerous destinations across the country where you can experience this seasonal spectacle. Here are some of the best places to see fall foliage in the United States.
New England: The Quintessential Fall Experience
Vermont is often considered the crown jewel of fall foliage destinations. With its rolling hills, quaint villages, and covered bridges, the state provides a picture-perfect backdrop for leaf peeping. Here are two of the best places to leaf peep this year.
- Stowe: Known for its charming village and beautiful mountain scenery, Stowe offers breathtaking views of fall colors. Take a drive along the Green Mountain Byway or hike the trails in Mount Mansfield State Forest.
- Woodstock: This picturesque town is surrounded by vibrant foliage. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park offers scenic trails, and the nearby Sugarbush Farm is perfect for sampling local maple syrup and cheese.
New Hampshire’s White Mountains are a haven for fall foliage enthusiasts. The combination of towering peaks and expansive forests creates a stunning display of colors. Here are two recommendations if you live in or near New Hampshire.
- Kancamagus Highway: This scenic byway is renowned for its fall colors. Stretching for 34 miles through the White Mountain National Forest, it offers numerous overlooks and hiking opportunities.
- Franconia Notch State Park: Home to the Flume Gorge and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, this park provides spectacular views of the surrounding foliage.
Maine’s rugged coastline and dense forests make it a prime destination for fall foliage. Two of the best places to see some stunning sights.
- Acadia National Park: The park’s diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastline, offer a stunning array of fall colors. Drive along the Park Loop Road or hike the trails around Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain.
- Rangeley Lakes: This area is known for its serene lakes and vibrant foliage. The Height of Land overlook offers one of the most spectacular views in Maine.
The Mid-Atlantic: History and Nature Combined
Pennsylvania’s extensive state parks and forests provide a beautiful backdrop for fall foliage.
- Pocono Mountains: The Poconos are a popular destination for their colorful fall display. Take a scenic drive along Route 507 or explore the trails in Promised Land State Park.
- Gettysburg National Military Park: The historical significance of Gettysburg combined with its stunning fall colors make it a unique destination. Walk the battlefield trails while enjoying the vibrant foliage.
New York offers a diverse range of fall foliage experiences, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside.
- Adirondack Mountains: The Adirondacks are famous for their fall colors. Take a scenic drive along the Adirondack Northway or hike to the summit of Mount Marcy for panoramic views.
- Hudson Valley: Just a short drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley offers a mix of historical sites and beautiful fall foliage. Visit the Walkway Over the Hudson or take a river cruise for unique perspectives.
The South: Unexpected Fall Beauty
North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains provide a stunning display of fall colors.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers 469 miles of scenic beauty. The stretch between Asheville and Boone is particularly renowned for its fall foliage.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The park’s diverse range of elevations results in a long foliage season. Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove are popular spots for viewing the vibrant colors.
Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park is a top destination for fall foliage.
- Skyline Drive: This 105-mile road runs the length of Shenandoah National Park, offering numerous overlooks and hiking opportunities. The views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley are spectacular in the fall.
The Midwest: Heartland Colors
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a hidden gem for fall foliage.
- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: The park’s dense forests and rugged terrain provide a stunning backdrop for fall colors. Lake of the Clouds is a must-see viewpoint.
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, this park offers beautiful fall scenery along its river and surrounding forests.
Wisconsin’s diverse landscapes offer beautiful fall foliage.
- Door County: Known for its charming towns and scenic shoreline, Door County provides a picturesque setting for fall colors. Peninsula State Park offers numerous trails and viewpoints.
- Kettle Moraine State Forest: This forest’s rolling hills and glacial formations create a unique fall foliage experience. The Ice Age Trail offers excellent hiking opportunities.
The West: Majestic Landscapes
Colorado’s high elevations and aspen groves make it a unique destination for fall foliage.
- Aspen: The town of Aspen is famous for its namesake trees, which turn brilliant gold in the fall. The Maroon Bells are a particularly iconic sight.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: The park offers a stunning array of fall colors, from golden aspens to vibrant shrubs. Trail Ridge Road provides panoramic views.
California might not be a place you think of for fall foliage, but its diverse ecosystems offer a surprising variety of fall foliage.
- Lake Tahoe: The area’s mix of evergreens and deciduous trees creates a beautiful contrast. Emerald Bay and the Tahoe Rim Trail offer stunning viewpoints.
- Yosemite National Park: While known for its granite cliffs and waterfalls, Yosemite also offers beautiful fall colors. The valley floor and the higher elevations both provide unique foliage experiences.
Fall foliage in the United States is a sight to behold, with each region offering its own unique display. Whether you’re hiking through the vibrant forests of New England, driving along the scenic byways of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Rockies, the beauty of autumn is sure to leave you in awe.
