As the summer heat fades, the vibrant colors of fall foliage take over the landscape. The US turns into a brilliant canvas of red, orange and yellow. Across the country, autumn offers some of the most captivating views that one must experience at least once in a lifetime. Here are some of the best places to marvel at stunning fall foliage in the United States.
Maine
Maine is highly regarded as one of the best destinations to take in fall colors in the US. The state offers expansive forests, rugged coastlines and peaceful lakes, allowing for a range of locations to view fall foliage. One prime spot to take in autumn scenery is Acadia National Park, with its iconic drive around Park Loop Road. Offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hills, Mount Desert Island is another great choice. Driving the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway or traveling through Grafton-Notch State Park also guarantees amazing views as you explore Maine‘s fall foliage.
Tennessee
Tennessee‘s Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another fantastic destination to visit when you want to witness beautiful fall foliage. The national park has over 800 miles of hiking trails to explore that keep visitors away from the crowds and provide opportunities to see the magnificent colors in a truly picturesque setting. The park hosts a Fall Foliage Prediction Map that helps determine the peak times during which to enjoy the transformation. The town of Gatlinburg is also worth a visit. Here, you can explore the park on foot or by bicycle. Or, opt for a nice drive to take in the brilliant hues of autumn all around you. This time of the year, the town also hosts various autumn events and festivals. The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival and the Bear-varian Fall Festival are two popular ones.
Colorado
Colorado is widely renowned as a top fall foliage destination in the US. The state produces a diverse range of colors, spanning from the glittering yellows of Aspen trees to the rich oranges of the oak trees. The mountains are beautiful throughout the year, but the autumn colors add a special charm. There are several astounding routes to explore in Colorado, including the San Juan Skyway, the Million Dollar Highway and the Trail Ridge Road. Breckenridge, nestled in the heart of Summit County, also offers stunning autumn scenery. Visitors can explore the mountain town, indulging in outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and scenic drives around the region.
Vermont
Each fall, the Green Mountains of Vermont come alive with fiery hues as the leaves transition. From late September to mid-October, visitors can embark on charming drives along routes like the acclaimed Route 100. When visiting, explore the lovely towns of Stowe, Burlington and Woodstock, all of which are surrounded by breathtaking foliage. The mix of maple, birch and beech trees creates a symphony of colors against the backdrop of quaint villages, covered bridges and rolling hills, making Vermont an idyllic destination to experience the magic of fall.
New York
Boasting some of the most spectacular fall foliage displays in the country, upstate New York is a great destination for those who want to observe the beauty of the changing seasons. During this time, the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains are transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of vibrant hues. The region offers a multitude of incredible drives. The mesmerizing Adirondack Northway and the legendary Route 20 both wind through picturesque landscapes dotted with charming towns and historic sites. The Finger Lakes region, with its rolling hills and serene lakes, is another popular destination for leaf peepers. From hiking through the Adirondack Park to exploring the charming small towns along the Hudson River Valley, there are endless ways to enjoy the wealth of autumn beauty upstate NY offers.