Johann H
Autumn might just be the best time to explore the U.S., with every state offering its unique view of nature’s most colorful season. Be it through a scenic drive through the mountains or a leisurely stroll by the riverside, we have curated a collection of the most captivating fall foliage destinations that will surely inspire you to start packing your bags immediately.
Alabama: Cheaha State Park
Alabama’s highest point, Cheaha State Park, offers breathtaking fall views. The colors pop against the park’s rugged view, creating a striking contrast. Hike the Bald Rock Trail for sweeping views of the autumn foliage stretching across the horizon.
Alaska: Denali National Park
Denali National Park’s fall foliage season is short but spectacular. As the tundra turns gold and red, the vast wilderness becomes a colorful dream. Early September is the perfect time to catch the changing leaves before the first snowfall.
Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon
While Arizona is known for its deserts, Oak Creek Canyon offers a fall oasis. Located near Sedona, this canyon transforms into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The scenic drive through the canyon is a must during the autumn months.
Arkansas: Ozark National Forest
Ozark National Forest bursts into life during the fall, with vibrant hues covering its rolling hills. Take a scenic drive through the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, where the trees glow in shades of gold, red, and orange, providing picture-perfect views at every turn.
California: June Lake Loop
In the Eastern Sierras, June Lake Loop is a hidden gem for fall foliage. Golden aspen trees create a stunning contrast against the blue lakes and snow-capped peaks. A leisurely drive through this area will feel like stepping into an autumn postcard.
Colorado: Kebler Pass
It is home to one of the largest aspen groves in the world. In the fall, the mountainsides are draped in golden yellow leaves, presenting an unforgettable display of nature’s beauty. A drive or hike through this region is a must-see in Colorado.
Connecticut: Kent Falls State Park
This park is recognized for its picturesque waterfalls, but it becomes even more magical in the fall. Cascading waters are framed by colorful leaves, creating a peaceful and beautiful setting. It’s a perfect spot for a fall day trip in Connecticut.
Delaware: White Clay Creek State Park
White Clay Creek State Park has miles of wooded trails that come alive with fall colors. Rich reds and oranges create a vibrant backdrop for hikers and photographers alike. It’s a peaceful spot to take in Delaware’s autumn scenery.
Florida: Torreya State Park
While Florida may not be famous for fall foliage, Torreya State Park proves the state has some hidden autumn gems. Changing leaves mix with the lush greenery, creating a unique blend of fall colors. Hiking here in late October offers a surprising seasonal treat.
Georgia: Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park becomes a vibrant haven for leaf-peepers during fall. Canyon walls are covered in bright reds and oranges, while the river below adds to the dramatic scenery. The suspension bridge provides an excellent view of this autumn spectacle.
Hawaii: Kokee State Park
Yes, even Hawaii has fall colors! Kokee State Park on Kauai features golden-hued trees during the season. Combine that with breathtaking mountain views and crisp, cooler weather, and you’ve got an island escape that’s perfect for fall lovers.
Idaho: Sawtooth National Forest
Sawtooth National Forest transforms into a golden paradise come fall. Aspens and cottonwoods create a sea of yellow that contrasts beautifully against the rugged mountain backdrop. Hike the Alpine Way Trail or take a scenic drive for the best views.
Illinois: Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is an autumn wonderland with cliffs and canyons framed by colorful trees. The park’s many trails provide a chance to get up close to the brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges that dominate the scenery.
Indiana: Brown County State Park
This park is the crown jewel of Indiana’s fall foliage scene. Rolling hills and forested sceneries glow with vibrant colors, offering stunning views from every angle. The park’s lookout points are perfect for taking in the full autumn beauty.
Iowa: Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park’s rugged terrain comes to life in the fall, with the trees displaying a mix of golds, reds, and oranges. Limestone bluffs and clear waters of the Maquoketa River add to the breathtaking autumn scenery in this peaceful park.
Kansas: Flint Hills Scenic Byway
The Flint Hills Scenic Byway is an unexpected but stunning fall destination in Kansas. As the prairie grasses turn golden and the trees paint the horizon with reds and yellows, this drive promises a peaceful and scenic fall escape.
Kentucky: Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge is a hiker’s paradise in the fall. The forested gorge lights up with fall colors, and the natural rock formations add an extra touch of beauty. Hiking the Chimney Top Trail provides unbeatable views of the vibrant scenery.
Louisiana: Kisatchie National Forest
In Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest is where to go for fall colors. Tall pines mix with oaks and maples that change to golden and fiery hues, making the forest a hidden gem for autumn lovers looking for a quiet retreat.
Maine: Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is known for its stunning fall foliage. As the leaves change, the park’s rocky coastline is framed by reds, yellows, and oranges. A drive along the Park Loop Road or a hike up Cadillac Mountain will give you incredible views of this autumn wonderland.
Maryland: Swallow Falls State Park
Swallow Falls State Park has both beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking fall foliage. Trees surrounding the falls light up in shades of gold and red, creating a magical setting. And, the easy walking trails make it a perfect spot to enjoy autumn’s splendor.
Massachusetts: Mohawk Trail
The Mohawk Trail is a classic New England fall drive. Winding through the Berkshire Mountains, it offers views of brilliant orange, red, and yellow foliage. Stop at the many scenic overlooks to fully appreciate the stunning autumn terrain.
Michigan: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
The Porcupine Mountains in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula present some of the best fall foliage in the Midwest. Dense forests of maple and birch turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, with Lake Superior providing a stunning backdrop.
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Drive
This route along Lake Superior becomes a painter’s palette of colors in the fall. The contrast between the fiery leaves and the deep blue lake is breathtaking. Driving or hiking here is the perfect way to enjoy Minnesota’s autumn.
Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park has a mix of history and natural beauty, especially during fall. Ancient rock formations, surrounded by trees in colors of red, orange, and gold, create a striking scene. Walking the trails feels like stepping into a fall painting.
Missouri: Mark Twain National Forest
Mark Twain National Forest lights up with autumn colors across its rolling hills and dense forests. The scenic Eleven Point River meanders through the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for a fall hike or kayak trip to enjoy the season.
Montana: Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park may be known for its dramatic mountains, but its fall foliage is just as impressive. Golden aspens stand out against the towering peaks and crisp blue skies. Visit in September or early October to see the colors at their peak.
Nebraska: Indian Cave State Park
Indian Cave State Park along the Missouri River is a hidden gem for fall foliage. Park’s hardwood trees burst into shades of red and gold, while the river reflects the stunning colors. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful autumn hike.
Nevada: Lamoille Canyon
Located in the Ruby Mountains, it is a dramatic fall foliage spectacle in Nevada. Aspen groves turn golden against the canyon’s rugged view, creating a beautiful contrast. This picturesque drive is perfect for catching autumn’s glow.
New Hampshire: White Mountain National Forest
White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire is a fall foliage paradise. Dense forests of sugar maples and birches light up in bright reds and oranges, while the scenic Kancamagus Highway offers sweeping views of the mountains covered in vibrant colors.
New Jersey: High Point State Park
High Point State Park offers panoramic views of New Jersey’s fall colors. Located on the state’s highest peak, the park has forests that glow with autumn hues. Take the hike up to the monument for a picture-perfect fall view.
New Mexico: Carson National Forest
Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico turns golden in the fall. Aspen groves cover the mountainsides, contrasting with the deep blue sky. A drive along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway showcases the best of the region’s fall foliage.
New York: Catskill Mountains
The Catskill Mountains are one of New York’s top fall destinations. Vibrant colors blanket the hills, and the winding roads present plenty of scenic overlooks. Hiking to Kaaterskill Falls is a highlight, with the surrounding trees providing a brilliant autumn display.
North Carolina: Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is North Carolina’s most famous fall foliage route. Winding roads provide stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains covered in reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to experience fall in the South.
North Dakota: Turtle River State Park
This park comes alive in the fall with vibrant foliage along the riverbanks. The park’s forests showcase a variety of colors, from golden yellows to deep reds. Walking the trails here during autumn is a peaceful and picturesque experience.
Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park
The beautiful park is one of Ohio’s best-kept secrets for fall colors. Rugged cliffs and waterfalls are surrounded by a forest that bursts into brilliant hues. For an unforgettable view, hike up to Old Man’s Cave to see the vibrant leaves.
Oklahoma: Talimena Scenic Drive
Oklahoma’s Talimena Scenic Drive offers some of the best fall foliage in the state. Roads wind through the Ouachita National Forest, where the trees light up in bright oranges and reds. The scenic overlooks make it a perfect fall road trip destination.
Oregon: Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon is a spectacular place to see fall colors. Vibrant trees frame the dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls like Multnomah Falls add to the beauty. A drive or hike through this area in autumn is a must.
Pennsylvania: Pine Creek Gorge
Also known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” Pine Creek Gorge delivers stunning fall foliage views. The deep gorge is lined with trees that turn beautiful hues of red, orange, and yellow. Scenic overlooks provide breathtaking views of this autumn wonder.
Rhode Island: Blackstone River Valley
Blackstone River Valley is Rhode Island’s top fall destination, with its colorful forests reflecting off the calm river. Historic mills and scenic byways make it an excellent spot to take in the beauty of autumn in New England.
South Carolina: Table Rock State Park
Located in South Carolina, this park provides breathtaking views of fall foliage. Park’s iconic Table Rock Mountain is surrounded by trees that turn gorgeous shades of red and orange, making it a top spot for leaf-peeping in the South.
South Dakota: Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills is a fall gem in South Dakota. Towering cliffs are framed by golden aspens and red maples, creating a striking contrast against the canyon walls. The picturesque drive is a perfect way to take in the beauty of autumn.
Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
It is one of the best places in the U.S. for fall foliage. In this popular park, the vast forests light up with fiery colors, painting a stunning backdrop for hiking and driving. Every turn brings a new view of autumn’s beauty.
Texas: Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples State Natural Area in Texas is famous for its stunning fall foliage. Maple trees here turn brilliant shades of red and orange, contrasting with the rugged scenery. It’s a rare autumn treat in the Lone Star State.
Utah: Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Utah’s Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest becomes a golden paradise in the fall. Aspen trees turn bright yellow, strikingly contrasting the evergreens and mountains. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers some of the best views in the state.
Vermont: Stowe
Stowe, Vermont, is one of the most iconic fall foliage destinations in the U.S. This town is surrounded by rolling hills covered in vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves. Take a scenic drive along Route 108 for the ultimate autumn experience.
Virginia: Shenandoah National Park
Located in Virginia, the park presents stunning fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Skyline Drive is one of the best ways to take in the colorful views, with plenty of overlooks to stop and soak in the autumn beauty.
Washington: Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park offers a unique mix of evergreens and deciduous trees, creating a vibrant fall palette. Towering mountains become a dramatic backdrop to the colorful forests, making it a must-see during autumn.
West Virginia: Dolly Sods Wilderness
The Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia is known for its unique fall colors. The high-altitude plateau turns bright red, orange, and gold during the season, showing sweeping views of the vibrant backdrop. It’s a peaceful and remote place to enjoy the season.
Wisconsin: Door County
Door County in Wisconsin is a popular fall destination. Colorful trees frame its panoramic roads and charming small towns. The shores of Lake Michigan create a stunning contrast with the reds and yellows of the autumn leaves.
Wyoming: Grand Teton National Park
This park delivers a breathtaking fall display. Golden aspens and cottonwoods contrast with the jagged Teton Mountains, creating a picture-perfect scene. A drive through the park in autumn is a bucket-list experience for leaf lovers.
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