Alright, pumpkin-spiced lattes might be all the rage during the fall season, but witnessing the fall foliage can be just as sweet. Consider grabbing your favorite fall drink or snack and heading out to enjoy the wonders nature provides during this time of year.
Here is a list of 10 places to add to your fall bucket list travels, perfect for a last-minute “leaf-peeping” or to plan ahead for next year!
Acadia National Park, Maine
Absolutely stunning year-round, Acadia National Park in Maine is a sight to behold. However, in the fall season the park bursts with hues of red, orange, and yellow, making it one of the most bucket list worthy destinations. Sit back and watch the golden sunrise cascade waves of light across the crisp, colorful leaves. Plan ahead as the peak is normally between October 13-22 and you don’t want to miss this!
Adirondacks, New York
Prepare your eyes (and cameras) for some Instagram-worthy sights! The Adirondack Mountains in New York offer some of the most unique viewpoints to see fall foliage. Said to have a rather long foliage season, ranging from the end of September to the last week of October, take a hot air balloon ride to see the Adirondacks flood the area in a sea of deep red, vibrant orange, and warm yellow.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
With such a large diversity of plant life and tree species, you are bound to witness some distinctive and bold fall colors. The last three weeks of October are the best days to visit. There are many stunning hikes, such as the Appalachian Trail, Inspiration Point on Alum Cave Trail, and Sutton Ridge Overlook that are perfect for viewing. If you want to drive, try taking the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Million Dollar Highway & San Juan Skyway Loop, Colorado
The San Juan Skyway is a magnificent scenic drive itself, but the autumn colors highlight all of the photo-worthy stops. Spanning around the San Juan Mountains from Durango to Ouray, the Million Dollar Highway is a particular section to pay attention to. Gape at the golden yellow leaves in the valleys. With no guardrails and extremely close ledges, don’t take your eyes off the winding and high-up road for too long!
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
Oh, the places you’ll go as you travel along the Blue Ridge Parkway! This area is best visited throughout the month of October, particularly the second and third weeks for peak fall foliage. Milepost 304.4 has one of the most photographed scenes of the Linn Cove Viaduct, making for a great stop. The Parkway boasts numerous overlooks and pullouts to make sure you get the best views! However, you won’t find a bad view on the Parkway!
Ozark Mountains, Missouri
Cruising in a kayak or canoe is one of the greatest ways to experience autumn in the Ozarks. The James River Water Trail and Lake Springfield are the most frequented spots allowing you to float up to and under colorful branches. If you’re looking for even more adventure, breeze through the luscious fall foliage on a zipline and walk across swinging suspension bridges. You’ll want to head to the Ozarks around mid-October for the best colors.
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Towards the end of September and mid-October, you can enjoy peak colors in the Columbia River Gorge. Hiking is a great way to see everything up close. Try out the Cape Horn Loop Trail for a peaceful and relaxing hike. Don’t forget to visit Multnomah Falls as you’ll have to sit back in astonishment as you stare at the vibrant reds and oranges bordering the falls. There are also cruises that run on the Columbia River that offer beautiful reflections of the colors on the water.
Montgomery, Vermont
A little different from some of the others on this list, but definitely not any less worthy of consideration, Montgomery is a small town nestled in northern Vermont. If you’re looking for something different, take a ride around Montgomery to find six covered bridges surrounded by beautiful fall colors. This makes for the most covered bridges in any town in the United States! They can be pictured perfectly against the autumn backdrop. Visit during the end of September to Early October for the most variety in the hues.
Door County, Wisconsin
The Midwesterners love a good trip to Door County during the fall. Not only will you find delicious bread and ciders at local farmers' markets, but the colors are stunning. Drive along Winding Road to get a view of the squiggling road amongst shades of red and orange. Since it is a peninsula, Door County is known for epic sunsets that cast a golden haze on the fall trees. With so many parks around, spend some time camping to get the whole experience and wake up to bright and crisp colors peeking in through the treetops.
Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Arriving from the end of September to the beginning of October will allow you to see some of the most remarkable colors. This 30-mile stretch of road takes you through the White Mountain Forest and near all sorts of hiking trails and viewpoints. The Kanc takes you low to ponds and rivers, and up through the mountain to the Pemigewasset Overlook, a must-see at sunset! There is also the Lincoln suspension bridge with brilliant views as well as old railroad tracks you can safely walk on.
