When autumn sweeps across the United States, it paints the landscape in a palette of gold, crimson, and fiery orange. Leaf-peeping season is a celebrated tradition, drawing travelers to forests, mountains, and valleys to witness nature’s most colorful show. From the Northeast’s classic fall foliage trails to unexpected hidden gems, here are the 10 best places in the USA to see the leaves change.
1. New England – Vermont
Vermont is the poster child for fall foliage, with its rolling hills, covered bridges, and endless maple trees turning brilliant shades of red and orange. Scenic drives along Route 100 and hikes through Green Mountain National Forest make it an autumn wonderland. Peak season usually runs from late September to mid-October.
2. The White Mountains – New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s White Mountains are legendary for vibrant fall colors. Drive the Kancamagus Highway for breathtaking vistas, or take the Mount Washington Cog Railway to enjoy panoramic views from above. The crisp mountain air and bright foliage make it a bucket-list destination.
3. The Adirondacks – New York
Upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountains offer more than six million acres of wilderness, perfect for leaf-peeping. With its lakes, forests, and peaks, the region offers some of the longest foliage seasons in the country. Lake Placid is a particularly stunning spot to soak in the views.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina & Virginia
Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, the Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive.” Fall transforms its rolling landscapes into a painter’s masterpiece, with layers of red, orange, and yellow stretching across the mountains. Early October through early November is prime time to visit.
5. Great Smoky Mountains – Tennessee & North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts one of the most diverse tree populations in the world, meaning a rainbow of colors come fall. Whether you’re hiking to Clingmans Dome or driving Newfound Gap Road, the views are spectacular. The foliage season here can last up to seven weeks, making it especially unique.
6. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Just 75 miles from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah is a fall favorite. The 105-mile Skyline Drive offers countless overlooks where you can pull over and admire the sweeping valleys ablaze with autumn color. Hiking the park’s trails in October provides a magical forest canopy.
7. Aspen – Colorado
Colorado’s autumn spectacle comes courtesy of golden aspen trees. True to its name, Aspen turns into a glowing wonderland each fall, with leaves shimmering against the backdrop of snow-dusted peaks. Late September is typically the best time to catch the show.
8. Upper Peninsula – Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of the Midwest’s hidden gems for fall foliage. The mix of maples, oaks, and birches reflect beautifully against the Great Lakes, creating postcard-worthy scenes. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is especially stunning during peak season.
9. Columbia River Gorge – Oregon
In the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge shines with autumn brilliance. Waterfalls, cliffs, and rivers provide a dramatic backdrop to the vibrant leaves. Early to mid-October is ideal, especially for hikes along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
10. Ozark Mountains – Arkansas & Missouri
The Ozarks offer a southern twist on fall foliage with forests full of dogwoods, oaks, and hickories. Scenic Byway 7 is a must-drive route to see the fiery landscape unfold. Peak color usually arrives in late October, perfect for an autumn road trip.
From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the rolling hills of New England, the United States offers endless opportunities to marvel at fall foliage. Each region has its own unique charm, whether you’re driving, hiking, or simply admiring the view. Plan your trip to one of these best places to see the leaves change in the USA, and you’ll experience autumn in all its glory.