21 Amazing Places To See Fall Foliage in the U.S. in 2026

Summer’s end is often a welcome time, especially after the extreme heat and severe weather that have plagued much of the U.S. this season.

Some of us don’t mind swapping flip-flops for sweater weather and pumpkin-spice-flavored treats — especially when trees trade their green for brilliant bursts of color. Leaf-peeping is a popular autumn activity, and for good reason. Chasing colors is a great excuse to get outdoors with your family, get some fresh air, and even better: it’s free.

While not every state sees big changes when fall arrives, many do see vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold as trees give a big send-off before winter. Although this may sound like a perfect opportunity for a road trip, one thing to keep in mind is timing. The foliage season starts at a different time each year, depending on the weather and location.

From the Pacific Northwest to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and beyond (even Texas and Florida see some color changes in the fall), you can find fall foliage almost anywhere — and we’re here to help you find the best spots.

When Is Foliage Season?

Leaf peepers can keep an eye on weather patterns and local foliage maps to try to time the perfect trip, but Mother Nature can be unpredictable.

In general, leaves change color between September and November, with New England leading the way in both the variety and vibrancy of color and the timing. Colors often start changing in the north, where it’s colder. The phenomenon moves south as autumn progresses — see our list below of the best places to view foliage this fall in the U.S., separated by region.

Where To See Fall Foliage in the Northeast

1. Connecticut

Connecticut is an ideal place to see foliage later in the season, as it’s the southernmost state in New England.

With covered bridges, plenty of state parks and forests, and even the Connecticut Wine Trail, the colored leaves may be the main attraction, but they aren’t the only ones. Connecticut is dotted with cute coastal towns and quintessential New England farms that create stunning scenes as the leaves start to change.

Peak foliage time: Mid-October until early November

Hot Tip:

Amtrak’s new NextGen Acela train is a special way to explore the Northeast Corridor during the fall foliage season.

2. Maine

Maine is full of natural beauty, and it only gets more colorful when autumn rolls around.

Fall foliage is a big deal and big business in Maine. Regions are divided into zones and tracked daily during the fall to keep visitors and residents up to date with the latest foliage conditions. Leaves start changing early in northern Maine, but peak foliage may not happen until a month later in the southern regions, which may be helpful to you when planning a vacation.

With state and national parks (the most famous being Acadia National Park), mountains, a stunning coastline, farms, and plenty of scenic byways, Maine is a classic fall destination.

With some regions just an hour away from Boston, Maine is surprisingly easy to drive to. If you’re flying, Portland International Jetport (PWM) is served by most major U.S. airlines.

Peak foliage time:

• Northern zones: Late September until early October
• Southern zones: Early October until late October

Hot Tip:

For a charming and luxurious stay in the area, check out our favorite boutique hotels in Portland, Maine.

3. Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a blustery destination where you can kick off a New England foliage tour road trip.

Visitors can get a taste of the fall foliage in and around Boston, but heading out toward the Berkshires is where the colors really shine. Foliage peaks from west to east, so as you drive out from Boston, the views are even more stunning. Better yet, Miraval Berkshires has some excellent award availability now through 2027, which is a rejuvenating destination for viewing the leaves and doing other wellness-inspired activities.

Massachusetts shares a border with New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. If you’re early in the season, just drive north.

Peak foliage time: Early October until late October

4. New Hampshire

New Hampshire is famous for the White Mountains, picturesque lakes, and idyllic drives that only get prettier when fall comes around.

Bordering Massachusetts to the south and Quebec, Canada, to the north, the Granite State offers a lot of ground to cover — which means it’s a great destination for a foliage road trip.

Visitors should consider driving up the Mount Washington Auto Road (or take the charming cog train) to reach the Northeast’s highest peak, or leisurely driving the 140-mile Sunapee Loop, which is full of small towns, antique shops, apple orchards, and lakes.

Peak foliage time:

• Northern Zones: Late September until early October
• Southern Zones: Early October until late October

Hot Tip:

If you want to fly to New Hampshire affordably (and also be near Boston), Breeze Airways offers various routes from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT).

5. New York

New York has much to offer year-round, but it’s usually not at the top of the list when it comes to foliage season. However, the largest state in the Northeast has plenty to offer for leaf peepers.

While there’s always stunning foliage in and around Manhattan (Central Park is particularly peaceful in the fall), heading north will open up a whole new world of fall foliage.

The Catskills and Finger Lakes are popular destinations year-round and are spectacular in the fall. If you want to keep heading north, the Adirondacks and Lake Placid always put on a show when the leaves start changing. And don’t forget about Niagara Falls, where you can see the yellows and reds alongside the cascading water.

Peak foliage time:

• Northern zones: Mid-September until early October
• Southern zones: Mid-October until early November

Hot Tip:

Taking the family to New York? Don’t miss our ultimate travel guide to New York City and tips for great things to do with kids in New York City.

6. Vermont

Vermont is home to some of the most classic and iconic New England sights, and when fall rolls around, the Green Mountain State bursts with color.

Visit charming small towns like Stowe and Woodstock, get some pictures of covered bridges, take a sail on Lake Champlain, pick apples, and drink some cider, all as you take in the beauty as the mountains turn vibrant colors all around you. The state also offers farm-to-table dining, fresh maple syrup, and an impressive craft beer scene.

Like New Hampshire, Vermont borders Massachusetts to the south and Canada to the north, so whether you take the main highways or meander through the backroads, the views are spectacular.

If you don’t feel like driving to Vermont, Burlington International Airport (BTV) is conveniently located and has flights from many major airports, including from nearby cities like Boston and New York.

Peak foliage time:

• Northern zones: Late September until early October
• Southern zones: Early October until late October

Hot Tip:

If you visit Stowe, you can use your points to stay at Destination by Hyatt’s The Lodge at Spruce Peak.

Where To See Fall Foliage in the Southeast

1. Arkansas

Arkansas may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of fall foliage, but with an abundance of mountains, parks, and wilderness, there’s plenty of fall scenery. Since Arkansas sits farther south, visitors can enjoy the vibrant leaves later in the autumn.

The Ozark Mountains are a popular destination thanks to the sheer number of trees — there are even parts of the state where you can see uninterrupted shades of red and orange for miles.

Peak foliage time: Late October until mid-November

2. North Carolina

North Carolina is a popular destination in the fall, particularly for the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Mountains, which are both known for fall foliage. With plenty of high peaks and low valleys, the peak leaf-changing season can last longer than in many other places, especially near the ocean.

While driving across the state is an optimal way to take in all the fall colors, North Carolina is full of leafy parks and hiking trails if you’d rather explore on foot.

Peak foliage time: Early October until early November

3. Tennessee

Tennessee is known for its long, steamy summers, but as fall arrives, so does cooler air and colorful leaves.

From Memphis to Chattanooga and beyond, there are countless destinations in the state to enjoy the colorful foliage. Whether it’s in a riverboat cruising along the Tennessee River or a hiking trip into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll spot plenty of colorful trees.

Peak foliage time: Early October until early November

Hot Tip:

Don’t miss our list of the best boutique hotels in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Where To See Fall Foliage in the Midwest

1. Illinois

Illinois is an excellent place to enjoy fall foliage. It’s home to over 100 different species of trees that turn into spectacular shades of yellow, orange, and red. If you’re starting your expedition in Chicago, you’ll be able to enjoy the colors popping in the many parks and gardens in the city, as well as along the shores of Lake Michigan, before venturing out into the rest of the state.

Whether you’re hitting Route 66 for an extended road trip or exploring the many state parks, Illinois is an excellent choice for your fall foliage tour.

Peak foliage time: Early October until early November

2. Michigan

With around 20 million acres of forests, once the leaves start changing, the state turns into a dazzling display of fall hues. Michigan has shores on 4 of the Great Lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Michigan.

Along those shores, you’ll find state parks, campgrounds, hiking trails, and hundreds of miles of bike paths. If you’re looking for a road trip, you’ll find plenty of scenic drives throughout the state, including the epic Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route in the Lower Peninsula. Set your GPS to the Porcupine Mountains and seek out the famous Lake of the Clouds, which provides endless opportunities for perfect photos.

Michigan is also home to over 100 vineyards and 300 breweries for adults to enjoy while the kids run through corn mazes and sip on some fresh apple cider.

Peak foliage time:

• Upper Peninsula: Late September until mid-October
• Lower Peninsula: Mid-October until early November

Hot Tip:

Rainy autumn day? Consider skipping the leaves and heading to one of Michigan’s top museums.

3. Minnesota

Minnesota is delightful in the fall thanks to clear skies and beautiful fall foliage. With plenty to see in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Twin Cities area, you can get your foliage fix without straying too far from the city. Plan to stay at the newly opened Hotel Indigo Minneapolis Downtown if you have a stash of IHG points.

Outside of the busy city, Minnesota is full of countryside perfect for spotting changing leaves. With many varieties of maple trees, the foliage season is especially bright with a stunning mix of golds and reds that make for a beautiful backdrop along the more than 10,000 lakes throughout the state.

If you’re looking for a classic, scenic byway, the Chippewa National Forest has charming back roads with plenty of stops to enjoy lakes and hiking excursions as you hunt for the perfect photo. The Iron Range Loop is also a popular spot for golfers and travelers with ATVs.

Peak foliage time: Mid-September until mid-October

4. Missouri

Missouri has plenty to offer anyone making their way around the Midwest in search of beautiful foliage, full of oak, maple, hickory, and ash trees.

The Lake of the Ozarks is extremely popular in the summer months, but once fall rolls around, things get really special. With fewer crowds and still-enjoyable weather, being on the water surrounded by fall foliage is a serene autumn experience.

Nature lovers should plan hiking or canoe trips to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (part of the National Park Service), which was the first national park area to protect a river system.

Peak foliage time: Mid-October until mid-November

Hot Tip:

Many of the route suggestions in our guide to the best road trips in the U.S. are ideal for those in search of amazing fall foliage.

Where To See Fall Foliage in the Mountain States

1. Colorado

Colorado is a popular outdoor destination year-round. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, or skiing, there’s always something to do in and around the Rocky Mountains. Take your pick from Denver, Boulder, Aspen, Vail, or other picturesque Colorado towns as your home base and start exploring.

One unique advantage of Colorado: There are 3 distinct climate zones within a 2-hour drive from Denver. Basically, that means that visitors can experience different stages of the foliage season all during a quick drive.

No matter if you end up exploring a state park, driving the 236-mile San Juan Skyway, riding the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad, or just hiking the closest trail to your hotel, you’re sure to see the leaves changing color this fall.

Peak foliage time: Mid-September until mid-October

Hot Tip:

There are many seasons optimal for exploring the Rocky Mountains and beyond. These are the best times to visit Colorado (by seasons and interests).

2. Montana

Montana is stunning year-round, but can be especially charming in autumn.

Montana is home to 2 of the most visited national parks in the country: Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, visiting Big Sky Country during the foliage season is always a good choice.

If the crowds at national parks aren’t appealing, consider a drive through southeast Montana, where the miles and miles of ranches and farmland turn into a golden sea of fall crops.

Peak foliage time: Mid-September until mid-October

3. New Mexico

New Mexico is another state that doesn’t often come to mind when thinking of foliage in the fall, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t impressive.

Usually lasting only a week in certain areas, the Land of Enchantment turns a vibrant gold, lighting up the byways and hiking trails each fall. With plenty of great drives like the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway and the High Road to Taos, it’s easy to admire the foliage without having to exert a lot of energy.

For locomotive fans, don’t miss the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, which was voted one of the country’s best train rides and goes from Chama, New Mexico, to Antonito in southern Colorado.

Peak foliage time: Mid-September until mid-October

Hot Tip:

New Mexico is famous for hot air balloon rides — it’s a panoramic way to see the foliage.

4. Utah

Utah‘s fall vistas stretch up the Rocky Mountains.

Canyons and lakes are popular spots to search out in your hunt for the perfect foliage photoshoot, and there are plenty to choose from in the Beehive State. Hop in the car and follow the leaves on one of the many iconic drives, like Alpine Loop or Hobble Creek Canyon. And don’t forget that Utah is also home to 5 national parks. Zion National Park, in particular, really comes to life in the fall.

Peak foliage time: Mid-September until late October

Hot Tip:

As fall turns to winter, learn more about how to maximize spectacular skiing in our ultimate guide to season ski passes around the world.

5. Arizona

Northern Arizona is one of the top destinations in the state to spot leaves changing color. Flagstaff, in particular, has aspens that turn golden — a beautiful contrast to the dark green pine trees. The autumn colors also look really spectacular against the red rocks of Sedona.

Take a drive along State Route 89A, which runs from Prescott to Flagstaff, to admire the colors. Or, hike the East Baldy Trail to see the tones changing up close. For those who prefer a warmer climate, the rich browns and golds of the southern Sonoran Desert can last into early December, ideal for leaf-peeping without super-cold weather.

Peak foliage time: Late September to early November.

Where To See Fall Foliage in the Pacific States

1. California

California has a very diverse climate thanks to its size and many mountains and valleys. All those distinct environments and changes in elevation mean the foliage season can stretch for a long time, sometimes even months.

You can trek through the famed redwoods, head up to Lake Tahoe, visit Yosemite National Park, tour wine country in Napa Valley, and so much more.

Peak foliage time:

• Northern and higher elevation zones: Mid-September until mid-October
• Southern and lower elevation zones: Late October until late November

Hot Tip:

Our detailed guides can steer you toward the best boutique hotels in Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley. We even have an ultimate guide to visiting and enjoying Napa Valley.

2. Oregon

Oregon gets cool and crisp as autumn arrives, bringing clear skies and colorful trees — very similar to what you might expect fall to look (and feel) like in New England.

Oregon is nearly half forest, so when the leaves start changing, there are reds, oranges, and yellows in abundance.

Take a drive up the Mount Hood Scenic Loop, hike one of the many state parks, take a boat out on the lakes in the Cascades, or sip your way around wine country.

You may think you’d need to hit the road to really experience the change of colors, but many of the most colorful trees can be found in urban and residential neighborhoods, which makes it easy for visitors to hunt for multicolored leaves.

Peak foliage time: Early October until mid-November

3. Washington

Washington may be known as the Evergreen State, but don’t let the nickname fool you. When autumn rolls around, the state glows with the colors of changing leaves. All those evergreen trees make for a spectacular backdrop (as do the snowcapped mountains) to the reds and oranges.

If you’re starting in Seattle, you don’t have to go far. Just about an hour away is Mount Walker in Olympic National Forest, where you’re able to see for miles once you reach the top.

One popular spot to visit is Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style town in the Cascade Mountains that hosts an annual Autumn Leaf Festival that’s fun for the whole family.

Peak foliage time: Late-September until early November

Final Thoughts

From the fiery reds of New England to the golden aspens of the Rockies, the U.S. has so much to offer for a scenic autumn getaway. Whether you want to head to Vermont for apple picking or to California for wine tasting, if you plan accordingly (and get a little lucky), you can do so among spectacular fall scenes.

Even if you live in an area where leaf changing is common, a fall-themed escape is ideal for escaping the crowds of summer. Read our guide on some of the best fall foliage getaways for more inspiration.