10 Enchanting Fall Foliage Destinations That Should Be On Your Vacation Bucket List

As summer’s warmth begins to wane, a breathtaking transformation sweeps across the United States. Trees shed their green summer attire for a vibrant cloak of red, orange, and gold. The fall foliage season paints landscapes with breathtaking hues, making it the perfect time for nature enthusiasts and wanderers to embark on a journey through the country’s most picturesque regions.

If cozy sweaters, pumpkins spice, apple stands, and a walk (or drive) through a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors is your idea of a good time, our list of the top U.S. places to experience the mesmerizing fall foliage is for you. We’ve also included the best times to witness peak colors and unique reasons to visit each destination.

Each of these ten destinations offers a unique perspective on the beauty of fall foliage in the United States. From the picturesque winding Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire to the dramatic landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, there’s a captivating experience awaiting leaf peepers in every corner of the country. So, pack your camera and hiking boots, and embark on a memorable journey through the kaleidoscope of colors that is the American autumn.

1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire: (Best Time: Late September — Early October)

Nicknamed the “Kanc,” this 34.5-mile scenic byway winds through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. As you drive along this picturesque route, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of vibrant red, orange, and gold foliage. The highway is flanked by the pristine Swift River and offers numerous pull-offs for photo opportunities.

A visit to the Kancamagus Highway is not only a feast for the eyes but also a journey through the heart of New England’s fall beauty. Stop by Sabbaday Falls to witness a spectacular waterfall framed by autumn foliage, and don’t miss the Russell-Colbath Historic Site, which provides insight into the region’s history.

The Kancamagus Highway is a gem among fall foliage destinations, offering an enchanting blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you’re driving its winding curves or exploring the trails and waterfalls along the way, this scenic route promises an unforgettable autumn experience.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: (Best Time: Early to Mid-October)

The Great Smoky Mountains boast one of the most diverse displays of fall colors in the nation. Besides the stunning leaves, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous camping sites, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife, making it a haven for both nature and animal enthusiasts.

Straddling the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be accessed through three main entrances to the park. Visitors can enter near Gatlinburg, TN, Townsend, TN, or Cherokee, NC. While there is no entrance fee, parking tags are required for all vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes. Parking rates are: Daily — $5; Weekly — $15; Annual — $40.

3. Aspen, Colorado: (Best Time: Late September — Early October)

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Known for its name sake iconic groves of golden aspen trees, Aspen provides a unique opportunity to experience fall foliage in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This posh and upscale mountain town, provides a balance of natural wonderland to explore and bougie accommodations, shopping, and dining options.

Aspen might not be the first place you think as a quintessential place to take in the splendors of the fall season, but its unique golden hued trees set against a backdrop of rugged rocky mountain terrain is the reason it should be on your fall vacation list.

A highlight to any Aspen vacation is a trip to see Maroon Bells, one of Colorado’s most photographed mountain peaks. It’s located a short 10 minute drive away. During the fall season you will find the Aspen trees glowing with hues of golden leaves framing the mountain tops, creating a breath taking view.

Important information to know if you will be vising Maroon Bells: Reservations are required for parking and shuttle buses to access the Maroon Bells. Reservations can be conveniently made online. Cyclists and e-bikes do not require reservations, but participants are encouraged to wear helmets and to respect rules-of-the-road when cycling to the Maroon Bells. Click for more information on visiting Maroon Bells and Reservations.

4. Acadia National Park, Maine: (Best Time: Late September — Early October)

Fall is one of the best times to visit Acadia National Park in Maine. With summer crowds gone for the season, the crisp sweater weather makes exploring the fall foliage of Maine a perfect place to get away from the hustle of life. Acadia National Park is simply a wonderland of vibrant colors just waiting to be explored.

From rugged coastlines, granite peaks, to dense forests painted with master strokes of fiery foliage, Acadia National Park is a top fall vacation bucket list adventure. There are numerous hiking and biking trails that will lead you on a colorful journey through one of the country’s top National Parks.

5. Door County, Wisconsin: (Best Time: Early to Mid-October)

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Door County offers a charming blend of orchards, vineyards, and quaint villages to explore. While the stunning fall colors are a reason visitors are drawn to the area, there are so many other uniquely fall activities to take full advantage of.

Sample local wines and freshly picked apples, go on a hayride, find your way through a fun corn maze, or explore quaint little towns. Fun Fact: One of Door County’s claim to fame is that it has won numerous “Best Fall Colors In The Country” awards.

6. The Ozarks, Arkansas/Missouri: (Best Time: Late October)

While the Ozarks are a popular summer getaway, it is also a gem destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. The rolling hills and expansive forests create a rustic beauty that’s perfect for those seeking solitude.

Fall offers visitors several unique ways to experience the beauty of the season. Take to the water on a kayak or canoe for views you can’t get from land. Jump on a tram tour that takes you on a 2–1/2 mile journey through a kaleidoscope of colors, stunning rock formations, and gorgeous waterfalls. For a bird’s eye view, why not zipline through a canopy of deep reds, burnt orange, and golden yellow tree tops.

7. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico: (Best Time: Late September — Early October)

Another lesser known fall foliage destination sits outside of Taos, New Mexico. Venture off the beaten path and discover the beauty of New Mexico’s high desert landscapes that glow with golden yellow aspen leaves. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway offers a unique southwestern twist on fall foliage.

The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway will take between 2–1/2 and 3 hours to complete, providing you with many places to stop and enjoy the scenery. Your journey will take you through Red River, a family town with an old west vibe, and Elizabethtown, an old gold mine town.

8. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon: (Best Time: Late October)

Photo by Alexandra Nicolae on Unsplash

The Columbia River Gorge is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, but during the fall, the surrounding forests turn into a wonderland of color. Witness the breathtaking contrast between fiery foliage and cascading water.

Visitors can hike the many trails or go horseback riding through a myriad of vibrant fall colors. In addition to enjoying the colors of the season, fall is also one of the best time to see Columbia River Gorge’s more famous waterfalls. Although there are 90 water falls to visit, Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are world famous, and not to be missed.

9. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: (Best Time: Late October)

With over 500 miles of hiking trails, Shenandoah National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. During the fall foliage season, the Blue Ridge Mountains become a sea of red and gold, creating a truly magical experience.

Fall is typically the park’s busiest time of year and the crowds can swell on weekends. For the best chance of avoiding crowded trails and full parking lots, try to visit Shenandoah during the week or have lots of patience — there is a reason why crowds flock here.

10. The Adirondacks, New York: (Best Time: Late September — Early October)

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The Adirondack Region boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country. This serene part of New York, provides an incredible getaway for leaf-viewers, hikers, and couples looking to experience the natural beauty of the Adirondack Park and its rich history, diverse dining options, and variety of outdoor attractions. Experience the subtle shift of air as summer bursts into a colorful array of reds, oranges, and yellows seemingly right before your eyes.

There is no shortage of fall fun to be had in the Adirondacks. From corn mazes to fright nights, apple picking and wine tasting, and hikes through colorful woodlands, there is a reason the Adirondacks has been a popular fall foliage location year after year.

Bonus location: Asheville, North Carolina: (Best Time: Late October)

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Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant city that serves as the perfect gateway to North Carolina’s stunning fall foliage. While the city itself offers a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and a bustling downtown, it’s the surrounding mountains that truly shine in the fall.

The Blue Ridge Parkway, often dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” passes through Asheville and provides access to some of the most breathtaking leaf-peeping opportunities in the Southeast. The vivid hues of the region’s trees contrast beautifully with the deep green of the pine forests, creating a captivating tapestry of colors.

Another unique draw of Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned home. During the fall season, the estate’s meticulously landscaped gardens and expansive grounds become a canvas for autumn’s splendor. Visitors can explore the gardens, forests, and vineyards while taking in the vibrant fall foliage.

While this list is only a small sampling of the many places to visit in the U.S. for spectacular fall foliage exploration, we hope it will inspire you to check out a few new places you might not have considered.