Author: Hannah Blythe
Its the most wonderful time of the year… the time when Halloween decorations begin to show up in stores. You might say, its only July, but really July is the perfect time to start making plans for the most epic fall foliage trip. There are quite a few different spots around the US that boast beautiful changing leaves and crisp autumn weather.
Whether you’re a seasoned leaf-peeper or simply seeking a tranquil escape in nature, here’s a detailed guide to some of the best places in the US to witness the breathtaking beauty of autumn foliage.
1. New England: When it comes to fall foliage, New England is the heavy weight champion of the fall foliage season. States like Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut boast rolling hills, quaint little Halloween towns, and expansive forests that show off the most vibrant colors from late September through mid-October. The Green Mountain Byway in Vermont, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and Acadia National Park in Maine are all iconic spots offering sweeping vistas of fiery foliage. Local farms host apple picking and harvest festivals, adding to the charm of this quintessential autumn experience.
We traveled this area in fall of 2022, planning our trip the first week in October. We were just slightly early to see peak foliage, but we saw the beginnings of what turned out to be a beautiful season. We spent a few days in Vermont, and drove the Kancamagus Scenic Byway and wrapped up the trip to the mecca of Halloween towns, Salem, Massachusetts. See more of that trip here:
2. Great Smoky Mountains: Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited National Park in the US. Its really a must visit any time of year, but especially in the fall, the trees burst into vibrant hues from early to mid-October. Scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway and hikes to Clingmans Dome provide vast views of the Smokies adorned in shades of gold, crimson, and rust. The picturesque valleys and misty mornings make this park a favorite among nature lovers and photographers alike during the fall season.
3. Kentucky: Believe it or not, Kentucky has been on our fall bucket list for a few years now, but we just haven’t been able to get the timing right. Imagine driving along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stopping off in Louisville and then continuing east where you’ll find the stunning Red River Gorge and the Zilpo Scenic Byway, we have heard these are both an absolute must during peak fall-foliage season. Its a great time of year to visit Mammoth Cave, and ride the rails on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, and hike Cumberland Gap National Historic Park.
Being further south, Kentucky’s fall foliage hits its peak later in the season, so its also the prefect trip for someone wanting to push their trip off to a little bit closer to Halloween. We celebrate our wedding anniversary in mid October, so one year, this will make the perfect trip.
4. Upper Peninsula, Michigan: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a hidden gem for fall foliage enthusiasts. The season here begins a little earlier, starting in mid-September running through mid-October, as the dense forests of maple, beech, and birch trees transform into a vibrant shades of reds, oranges, and yellows. A popular stop is Porcupine Mountains State Park, show casing a rugged terrain and panoramic overlooks of Lake Superior, it is a prime spot for capturing stunning vistas of fall foliage reflected in the pristine waters below. Scenic drives along Lake Superior’s shoreline and hikes through old-growth forests offer unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in the beauty of autumn.
We’ve had visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore as a goal of ours ever since we missed it during a trip in the UP in 2019, and seeing it during the fall season would be an absolutely beautiful way to experience it. This also might be the perfect time to stop by Mackinac Island, as most places are still open into October, and the crowds will be considerably lower during the shoulder season.
5. Rocky Mountains: In the western United States, the Rocky Mountains showcase their own unique brand of fall splendor. Colorado’s aspen groves turn brilliant shades of yellow against the backdrop of snow-dusted peaks from late September to early October. We have plans this year to drive the Million Dollar Highway winding through southwestern Colorado hoping to see these iconic colors and view and capture the breathtaking views of autumn foliage amid the rugged grandeur of the Rockies.
Tips for Maximizing Your Fall Foliage Experience:
- Timing is Key: Peak foliage times vary by location and elevation. Check local foliage trackers and state park websites for the latest updates on when and where to see the best colors. We’ve been using this map in years past to plan the timing of our trips.
- Scenic Drives and Hikes: Plan scenic drives or hikes that offer panoramic views of the landscape. Many national and state parks have designated routes for leaf-peepers, complete with overlooks and interpretive stops. We have recently been using Action Tour Guide for guided tours, and have really been enjoying the information and guidance from them.
- Local Festivals and Events: Explore local fall festivals celebrating harvest traditions, pumpkin patches, and seasonal cuisine. These events often provide a deeper cultural experience and a chance to mingle with locals. The local festivals can also be a good indication of when the color is expected to be at peak in the area. The locals are the experts, we trust time.
- Accommodations: Book accommodations well in advance, especially in popular leaf-peeping destinations like New England and the Great Smoky Mountains. Consider staying in charming bed-and-breakfasts or rustic cabins to enhance your autumn getaway. We are only a few months away so now is the time to book. You can also start planning for your trip in 2025 as soon as you get home for the trip this year.
From the quaint charm of New England villages to the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the United States offers a wide variety of destinations for experiencing the magic of fall foliage. Plan your autumn getaway to one of these picturesque regions, pack your camera and hiking boots, and prepare to be enchanted by nature’s stunning seasonal spectacle. Whether you’re capturing the fiery hues of maple trees or enjoying a scenic drive through mountain passes, fall foliage season promises unforgettable moments amidst the kaleidoscope of autumn colors.
The Savory Suitcase 