11 of America’s Best Destinations for Leaf Peeping

Travelers often look forward to fall as a time to take advantage of cooler temperatures and a colorful change of scenery. In autumn, many towns in the U.S. go through a fleeting transformation, as leaves on trees start to crinkle up and turn from green to fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. This is a leaf peeper’s favorite time of year — a time when hunting down the most spectacular fall foliage becomes a full-blown sport. Take a peak at 11 of the best leaf peeping locations around the U.S.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of the best places in the Southeast to catch fall colors, thanks to its high number of tree species, diverse elevations, and unique mountain microclimates. All of that comes together to give the area one of the country’s longest leaf-peeping seasons, which typically lasts from late September to early November. The Asheville area’s mix of trees (over 140 native species) blankets the Blue Mountains in vivid yellow, orange, red, purple, pink, and brown hues. For the best light, head out at sunrise or sunset and enjoy a leisurely drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping at the many overlooks and hiking trails, including Mount Mitchell — the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Conway, New Hampshire

The small town of Conway charms any time of the year, with its quaint New England architecture, quirky boutiques, and cozy coffee shops. Come fall, however, Conway becomes one of New England’s top leaf-peeping destinations. Located on the edge of the White Mountains National Forest, the town is surrounded by rugged peaks and rolling foothills that glow with fiery reds, oranges, yellows, and golds from late September into mid-October.

To best admire them, take the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), which winds for 34.5 miles through the heart of the White Mountains. Around every bend, brilliant foliage steals the show, with plenty of pull-offs and trails along the route where you can stop, stretch your legs, and take in the glorious colors. 

Sedona, Arizona

Fall foliage isn’t just reserved for the East Coast — many regions along the West Coast and in the Southwest put on a spectacular display as well. In particular, the dramatic red-rock landscapes of Sedona, Arizona, make the vibrant colors even more striking come autumn. Peak foliage season runs from late September to late October, but the season extends into November and even December at lower elevations. 

One of the most beloved spots to take in the colors is Red Rock Crossing, where golden cottonwoods along Oak Creek glow against the fiery backdrop of Cathedral Rock, drawing photographers from all over the country. For an easy, relaxing way to take in the scenery, cruise the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive, which stretches for 30 miles between Seonda and Flagstaff. Must-stop spots include Midgley Bridge and Slide Rock State Park.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe packs a big punch when it comes to outdoor pursuits — and fall is when the tiny town of 5,000 truly comes alive. In autumn, the abundance of sugar maple trees surrounding this popular northern Vermont ski area put on a spectacular color show. Visitors can enjoy it all while hiking up Elmore Mountain or Stowe Pinnacle, taking a scenic drive along the backcountry roads, or venturing out into the Waterbury Reservoir on a private boat cruise. In Stowe, the best time for fall foliage viewing starts in early September and runs through late October.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The scenery around Jackson Hole is nothing short of breathtaking, and autumn takes it to a whole new level. Brilliant gold, orange, and red leaves pop against the majestic backdrop of the Teton Range, making late September to mid-October a truly magical time to visit this small mountain town.

Scenic drives through Grand Teton National Park — especially along the Snake River — show off some of the best fall colors. Hiking is another favorite pastime for leaf-peepers, with trails like Taggart Lake and the Jenny Lake Loop offering unique views of the foliage reflecting in the water. Fall in Jackson Hole is gorgeous but fleeting, with snow often arriving by November, so plan to visit in early October to catch peak leaf-peeping season.

Bar Harbor, Maine

As the gateway to stunning Acadia National Park, the small coastal town of Bar Harbor is already on many tourists’ radars. Peak tourist season is July and August, but it’s well-worth holding off a few months to experience a slice of Maine magic in autumn. Hiking and biking the carriage trails within the park is often the best way to see the vibrant colors of fall, or you could embark on a kayak tour or whale watching excursion along Maine’s rugged coast. Don’t delay too long, though —  prime foliage season is short-lived in Maine, typically kicking into gear in the last week of September and lasting into the first or second week of October.

Catskills Mountains, New York

Upstate New York is known for its pristine mountains, crystalline waterfalls and rivers, and a rich profusion of trees. As you might guess, when summer fades into fall, the Catskills Mountains — located about midway between New York City and Albany — turn into a leaf peeper’s dream.

Hiking and taking scenic drives are the most popular way to see the fiery fall leaves, but visitors who prefer a more unique experience can hop aboard the Delaware & Ulster Railroad to cruise through the mountain landscape aboard a vintage train. Be sure to also visit Vernooy Kill Falls to see one of the area’s most picturesque waterfalls adorned in autumn colors. Leaf-peeping season in the Catskills usually peaks during the first few weeks in October. 

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon and Washington

New England is stacked with idyllic leaf-peeping destinations, but discounting the West Coast would be a mistake. Columbia River Gorge is stunning in any season, but the fall foliage bloom is nothing short of spectacular. Running along the boundary of Oregon and Washington, the river canyon stretches 80 miles long and reaches 4,000 feet deep in places, creating a breathtaking natural landscape that draws visitors from across the nation. 

There’s plenty of fall foliage to admire on a hike through the rocky cliffs and Cascade Mountains surrounding the gorge, but you can also hop onto Highway 30 and soak up the spectacular views on the drive between Rowena and Mosier. Or cruise down the Historic Columbia River Highway, aptly dubbed “the King of Roads” for its stunning scenery. Time your visit for late September to mid-October for peak leaf peeping.

Munising, Michigan

Leaf peeping usually conjures images of dense forests flush with color. What makes Munising special is the burst of fall color along the waterscape of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Visitors can take to the 100 or so miles of hiking trails along Lake Superior’s shore, mountain bike or ATV through an extensive trail system, hike the famous Chapel Basin Loop, or glide out onto the chilly waters of the lake on a boat tour. No matter how you decide to see the foliage, the fiery trees that top the soaring lakeside cliffs are a sight to behold. Plan your visit during the first two to three weeks of October to catch the most colorful show. 

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Spanning western Massachusetts to northern Connecticut along the New York border, the Berkshires are famous for their natural beauty — especially in fall. Starting in late September, the dense forests of this mountainous region turn into vibrant carpets of gold, red, and orange, and there are plenty of ways to take it all in.

The 63-mile-long Mohawk Trail (Route 2) and the 35-mile Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway (Route 20) are both great choices, with many pull-offs, viewpoints, and quirky roadside shops. Hiking is another popular way to catch the colors. Beginners and families can enjoy the easy, paved Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, while experienced hikers can tackle Mount Greylock for panoramic views that stretch for miles.  

Breckenridge, Colorado

Famed for its hiking, biking, and skiing trails that criss-cross the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is a nature lover’s dream. When the temperatures start to dip in autumn, though, the area’s beauty is showcased in a whole new way. Visitors can start wandering around Breckenridge’s charming downtown, set against a picturesque mountain backdrop, and then venture off on one of the 100-plus hiking trails nearby.

Aspen Alley is a popular hike in fall, or opt for a scenic drive along Boreas Pass Road. After a day on the trail, take a load off at a fall festival or event in town. Just be sure to consider Breckenridge’s location prior to planning your trip — due to the high elevation (9,600 feet above sea level), leaves start to change here in early September.