Plan a weekend escape or an extended getaway to see autumn’s peak foliage.
Peak leaf season varies by region and by year, depending on the weather, so it’s best to check with local sources before you go. Many top destinations to view fall’s splendor have leaf and foliage maps and trackers so you can follow the local predictions and current conditions, and arrive just in time for the best of the season. Some of these destinations will be familiar, while others are lesser-known locales where you can capture and embrace fall’s beauty. So, pack your jacket and jeans, and grab your camera for one of nature’s most spectacular spectacles – the changing colors of the leaves during fall.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Plan a weekend escape or an extended getaway to see autumn’s peak foliage.
Peak leaf season varies by region and by year, depending on the weather, so it’s best to check with local sources before you go. Many top destinations to view fall’s splendor have leaf and foliage maps and trackers so you can follow the local predictions and current conditions, and arrive just in time for the best of the season. Some of these destinations will be familiar, while others are lesser-known locales where you can capture and embrace fall’s beauty. So, pack your jacket and jeans, and grab your camera for one of nature’s most spectacular spectacles – the changing colors of the leaves during fall.
Acadia National Park, Maine
McKenzie River Scenic Byway, Oregon
The 34-mile McKenzie River Scenic Byway extends from wine country in the Willamette Valley to the forests of the Cascade Mountains, treating travelers and road-trippers to views of some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful landscapes. Plan your visit for peak season when the golds and reds are most vibrant, usually in mid-October. The McKenzie River boasts some of the best fly-fishing in Oregon, so anglers will want to cast off for native redside rainbow and cutthroat trout along the way. Other highlights include stops at local farm stands, the historic Old McKenzie Fish Hatchery in Leaburg and the state’s second-longest covered bridge in Vida, Goodpasture Bridge. For an extended getaway that includes days spent fly-fishing, whitewater rafting and hiking to waterfalls, make reservations at Eagle Rock Lodge, a romantic bed-and-breakfast in Vida.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Charlottesville, Virginia
Payette River Scenic Byway, Idaho
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Bucks County’s picturesque country roads and covered bridges create the idyllic setting for viewing fall’s colorful palette. Located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania and bordered by New Jersey and the Delaware River to the east, Bucks County has a rich Revolutionary War history and is known for its thriving cultural and arts community. Peak leaf season typically runs the last two weeks of October, bringing vibrant hues of yellows, oranges, red sand browns to the area. For a scenic escape to the Pennsylvania countryside, make reservations at The Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm, a luxury bed-and-breakfast. Then, plan your brisk fall days exploring the shops and restaurants in New Hope or checking out the annual display of Scarecrows in the Village at Peddler’s Village. You can also take a self-guided driving tour of Bucks County’s 12 covered bridges or sip and savor local wines along the Bucks County Wine Trail.
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Fall in Cheyenne boasts golden prairie grasslands in the high plains and vibrant seasonal colors from the quaking aspens. Visitors can also take in the stunning palette of reds, oranges and yellows from the trees lining the streets of downtown; the best viewing for these begins in late September and usually peaks by mid-October. You’ll find even more brilliant foliage at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens and the High Plains Arboretum, the latter of which features 60 species of trees and shrubs. After leaf peeping, don’t miss a visit to Cheyenne’s Frontier Days Old West Museum. The impressive collection of artifacts celebrates the history of the American West and the “World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration.” This annual celebration is a 10-day rodeo and western spectacle featuring parades, a cook off, a carnival, a Native American village and many other events. For outdoor adventures outside of town, head approximately 24 miles west to Curt Gowdy State Park and spend afternoons hiking, biking or boating. For accommodations in the park, you can rent a hilltop cabin with a view or reserve a campsite and sleep under the stars.
French Lick West Baden, Indiana
The Mississippi River Valley, Southern Minnesota
Colorful wooded bluffs, steep hillsides and quaint river towns are highlights of the Mississippi River Valley region in southern Minnesota, best enjoyed on a leisurely drive. The 88-mile route from the town of Red Wing to La Crescent also features scenic overlooks, including two must-see locations at Great River Bluffs and Frontenac state parks. This drive along the Mississippi River, part of the 3,000-mile-long Great River Road (which begins in Minnesota and runs south through 10 states to conclude in Louisiana), celebrates peak fall colors about mid-October. During the ride, enjoy the brilliant hues of russets, reds and golds. For bird lovers, be sure to stop at The National Eagle Center in Wabasha. Then, plan to stay in Wabasha where you can grab dinner and a beer, and spend the night at Turning Waters Bed, Breakfast and Brewery. Further down the road, don’t miss a visit to the town of Winona where you’ll find the small but impressive collection of European, American and contemporary works at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Hudson, New York
Situated in the Hudson River Valley in Columbia County, approximately 120 miles north of New York City, Hudson is a small town that offers a distinct food, arts and farming culture. There’s also a unique history to explore, especially when it comes to architecture. Known as a “dictionary of architectural history,” Hudson boasts many well-preserved buildings from almost every major period in America. The area’s numerous trees produce brilliant red, orange and yellow hues beginning at the end of September, with the peak viewing time around mid-October. For a unique way to see the foliage, get a designated driver and take the self-guided Scenic Sips Craft Beverage Tour. This excursion features five different circuits with stops at breweries, wineries and distilleries in Hudson and throughout the county. After the drive, browse the town’s boutiques and antique shops, before checking into The Hudson Whaler Hotel, a beautifully restored property in the heart of downtown.
Stowe, Vermont
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
Lake Superior Scenic Byway, Wisconsin
This 70-mile route follows Lake Superior’s southern shore along the Bayfield Peninsula on Wisconsin State Highway 13. The road winds through harbor towns, fishing villages and orchards and farms. Expect to see views of beautiful sandy beaches, forests and the sparkling waters of Lake Superior. This route begins in the town of Barksdale, heads north and then around the tip of the peninsula, ending in Cloverland, near the mouth of the Brule River. Plan your drive for the first week of October when the area’s bright reds, golds and coppers are at their peak. Highlights along the byway include the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Gaylord Nelson Wilderness Area, which are home an extensive collection of lighthouses. As a side trip, take a ferry ride from Bayfield to Madeline Island at the tip of the peninsula. Afterward, arrange for an overnight stay in Bayfield at the Old Rittenhouse Inn, a 20-room bed-and-breakfast overlooking Lake Superior.
Highlands, North Carolina
Tunnel of Trees, Lower Peninsula of Michigan
Known as the Tunnel of Trees, this 20-mile scenic route follows along historic M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. The area’s canopies of golds, oranges and crimsons are on display typically from late September to mid-October. A few highlights include visiting the picturesque waterfront resort town of Harbor Springs and sampling authentic Polish cuisine at the iconic Legs Inn restaurant in Cross Village. For accommodations, plan to stay at Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs. This property offers many outdoor activities including zip lining, horseback riding, biking and tennis. While there, reserve a seat on the Heather Express chairlift. This excursion to the top of the mountain affords incredible views of Little Traverse Bay, Harbor Springs and the area’s beautiful fall foliage.
North Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
The Ozarks, Arkansas
Situated in the northwest part of the state, the Ozarks are the perfect destination to explore the outdoors and take in the beauty of autumn’s palette of bright golds, reds and oranges. The transformation begins around the second week of October and peak colors appear by late October. One of the top spots to view the foliage is in the Buffalo National River area around the small town of Ponca. This beautiful wilderness destination in the mountains offers the opportunity to disconnect and get away from it all. While here, take time to hike or float down the river all the while keeping an eye out for wild elk. Fall is when the bulls are battling to become king of the herd, so they’re especially active during this time of year. Plan to reserve one of the cabins in the mountains above Ponca. Vantage points from these properties yield incredible stargazing opportunities, as well as memorable sunrise and sunset views.
Hallowed Ground National Scenic Byway, Maryland
The scenic 38-mile drive from Emmitsburg to Point of Rocks runs along Maryland’s Route 15. Known as “hallowed ground,” and considered sacred by some, this long stretch of road highlights significant Civil War sites and pristine natural areas, including Catoctin Mountain Park, home to Camp David. The best time to make the journey to see the foliage on the Maryland route is between late September and early November, with peak season around mid-October. One not-to-be-missed detour is to see the 78-foot waterfall and gorge in Cunningham Falls State Park. Afterward, spend time exploring the shops and restaurants in the historic town of Frederick. While there, book an overnight stay at one of the charming local bed-and-breakfasts, such as 10 Clarke.
