The United States has some of the prettiest Fall foliage ever, and I’m not just saying that because I live here. Every year I look forward to the red, orange, and yellow leaves that fill the trees, as well as the warm and cozy scarf-wearing and misty mornings that come with it.
Chasing the changing of the leaves in the USA can be its own road trip with how many beautiful places you’ll discover along the way.
More Than Just Scenery: The Allure of Fall Foliage Trips
From the mountain ranges of the west coast to the valleys in New York, there are so many unique spots to see the beautiful Fall leaves. We’re going to cover small towns, hotels, parks and smaller regions so that no matter where you are, you’ll get front row seats to one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena.
Peak season for fall foliage varies from state to state as the change in daylight hours and temperature shifts into the new season. This is what causes the leaves to change color with a bit more science to it, of course.
Fall is not only the perfect time to travel for fall foliage trips, crisp air, outdoor activities and all over cozy vibes, but it’s also considered shoulder season aka the best to travel to avoid crowds as kids head back to school.
20 Top Fall Foliage Destinations in the USA
When you think of fall foliage in the USA, you think of Vermont or the East Coast, but there’s so many hidden gems with the most beautiful fall colors like Utah, Colorado and even Texas. Here are the top fall foliage destinations!
1. Yosemite National Park (Valley), California
Peak Foliage Season: mid-October
Yosemite year-round is beautiful, but the national park in the fall is absolutely breathtaking. This is one of our all-time favorite places to visit and we even have a guide for visiting Yosemite in the Fall and early Winter if you’re looking to plan a trip!
The park is the most busy during the summer months, so you’ll find crowds clearing out by October. Temperatures are also significantly cooler, perfect for hiking in the moody Fall mist.
Many of the trees are evergreens, but you’ll find some maples and oaks with multi-colored leaves amongst the green. Sunrise is the best time to take photos when the early light starts to trickle in between the golden leaves.
California is one of the best states to see Fall colors and we have a whole list here!
2. Desolation Hotel in Hope Valley, California
Peak Foliage Season: mid-to-late October
Desolation Hotel is one of our top spots to visit in Lake Tahoe and Hope Valley during the Fall. Previously known as Wylder Hotel, this hotel is a cabin retreat with a sauna that’s the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness.
Desolation is also famous amongst photographers and Fall enthusiasts like myself for its beautiful foliage. During October, the Aspen trees that line the resort will transform into a vibrant golden-yellow that makes you feel like you’re walking in a wonderland.
If you plan it just right, you can have the most amazing glamping trip amongst the yellow leaves.
3. Sonoma County (Russian River Valley), California
Peak Foliage Season: early-September to mid-November
Sonoma County is most well-known for their wine tasting, but I’d argue that its landscape is just as good of a reason to visit. Most of the Bay Area won’t have a changing of colors, but the vineyards nearby burst into splashes of oranges, reds, and yellows.
After grape harvest season ends in November, the grape vines release all their color and begin to change in December. Another favorite of ours are Healdsburg’s wineries, which also turns into the most beautiful landscape in the Fall.
Russian River Valley is family-friendly and the perfect place for both adults and children to relax by the river or go on a hike. The northern section of Russian River Valley has tasting rooms and Michelin restaurants for a luxurious stay.
The Redwoods will remain green year round but is still a beautiful area to go hiking. The coast is also beautiful, but you’ll want to stay further east if you’re trying to catch the best view of Fall leaves. Plus some of the best apple picking!
4. Calaveras County, California
Peak Foliage Season: late-October to early-November
We may be a little biased since our Whimsy Homes are found here in Arnold, but golden country is truly so special! We love staying in our Whimsy cabins anytime throughout the year, but there’s something magical that comes alive in the Fall. Drive through Ebbets for a scenic route through the Sierra Nevadas to see the colors!
Calaveras County is not only beautiful in the Fall, there’s also so many fun activities to do at this time of year. Head to The Red Apple for pastries, pies, cider, and our personal favorite – their famous apple cider donuts.
And of course, you can’t miss out on the Annual Calaveras Grape Stomp at Murphys Community Park.
5. Leavenworth, Washington
Peak Foliage Season: mid-October
Leavenworth is a German-inspired town in central Washington with charming Bavarian buildings and authentic German cuisine.
Head to Waterfront Park or take a drive along Icicle Road for the best panoramic views of the Fall leaves. Meanwhile, Lake Wenatchee, a 500-acre lake, reflects the multi-colored Autumn leaves in a dazzling display of fiery hues.
We love the Posthotel, a luxury lodging option downtown that’s conveniently located close to shopping and dining.
6. Suncadia Resort, Washington
Peak Foliage Season: early-to-mid October
Staying at the Suncadia Resort, , part of Destination by Hyatt, is the perfect place to witness the leaves change from their green to golden hues in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled within 6,000 acres of forested mountains, there is no more perfect time to visit this Washington haven than in October.
The resort offers over 40+ miles of hiking and biking trails and three golf courses. The resort also offers local dining and wining in Cle Elum, Washington.
Taking road trips along the Pacific Northwest is one of my favorite things to do – there are few things that compare to driving along the coast and into the mountains, it doesn’t get more serene than this.
7. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, Nevada
Peak Foliage Season: mid-October
Enjoy the beauty of Northern Nevada’s Fall foliage at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort. This scenic waterfront resort is nestled right in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is just steps away from the shores of Lake Tahoe.
Enjoy a winding hike along one of the many nearby trails to take in the crimson and amber Fall leaves. Unwind at the end of the day by enjoying the on-site spa and dining at one of the award-winning restaurants.
8. Provo Canyon / Park City, Utah
Peak Foliage Season: late-September to mid-October
Utah is an underrated state for seeing fall foliage and we’ve discovered some of the most beautiful places to see Utah fall colors.
You’ll find orange, red, yellow, and even purple leaves amongst the mountainside in Provo Canyon. I recommend driving to Provo Canyon first thing in the morning where you’ll be rewarded with foliage during the whole drive, eventually leading to Alpine Loop or Midway.
Right at the start of Alpine Loop is the Sundance Mountain Resort, which I recommend booking if you want to spend a night with a direct view of the Fall foliage in Wasatch Mountains.
If you have more time on your trip, check out the Homestead Crater in Midway. It’s a giant hot spring in a cave that feels so good to soak in during the chilly weather.
Park City is famous for having one of Utah’s largest mountain resorts that also has the perfect view of Fall foliage. The trees are on the east side of the mountain, which is great for taking photos in the afternoon since they’ll be in the shade.
Park City in general is a cute and charming town that looks like it’s straight out of a Hallmark movie!
9. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch, Arizona
Peak Foliage Season: late-October
Arizona’s mild Fall days are the perfect escape from chillier temperatures. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch’s 27-acre courtyard boasts an impressive array of facilities, including a golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, waterfront casitas, and pool.
The warm days and cool nights are perfect for enjoying sport activities at the resort or hiking nearby to view the Fall leaves, ending with a dip in the pool at night.
Plus some of the best brunch spots we’ve ever been are in Scottsdale!
10. Rocky Mountain National Park / Estes Park, Colorado
Peak Foliage Season: late-September to early-October
Aspen leaves in high elevation can begin changing into a lovely golden-yellow as early as August and become streaked with red as the weeks pass. When Fall begins in the last week of September, expect to see the trees filled with reds, oranges, and even deep purples and browns.
This is also when hundreds of elk will make the journey down from the high country in search of a mate for the coming winter – every wildlife photographer’s dream!
Rocky Mountain National Park is nearly 270,000 acres, so it can be overwhelming when figuring out where the best place to view the Fall colors is. If you’re on the east side of the park and in Estes Park check out Hidden Valley, Twin Sisters, Bear Lake Road, and Glacier Gorge Trail.
On the west side of the park and by Grand Lake visit Kawuneeche Valley and Fairview Curve. Fall is one of the busiest seasons in the park, so check if you’ll need reservations prior to visiting. Some of the best drives to take are Trail Ridge Road and Old River Road, which will take you through a scenic drive in Estes park.
Estes Park is the town by Rocky Mountain National Park and home to the historic Stanley Hotel, which has those perfect spooky vibes.
11. Tyler, Texas
Peak Foliage Season: late-October to early-November
Texas isn’t exactly known for their Fall leaves, but did you know you can find some vibrant foliage in East Texas? Tyler is one of the best cities to experience Texas’s Autumn beauty and is home to a variety of maples, oaks, elms, and more!
You can always go hiking in one of Tyler’s trails or even visit Tyler State Park, but taking a drive is just as good of a way to see the reds and orange foliage. It also makes for a great day trip from a major city like Dallas or Houston.
12. Door County, Wisconsin
Peak Foliage Season: late-September to mid-October
In Door County, the leaves begin changing color in the southern portion of the peninsula and make their way to the north. For a bird’s eye view of the foliage, climb to the top of Eagle Tower in Peninsula State Park.
Wisconsin doesn’t only have beautiful colors during the fall, they’re also well-known for their wineries. I’d also check the dates for when Fall Fest is happening this year as it is a huge annual event where they will stop traffic and Sister Bay will be filled with vendors, booths, and food/drinks.
This is also apple picking season and nothing screams Fall more than visiting an apple orchard and drinking a hot cup of cider.
13. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
Peak Foliage Season: early-October to early-November
An iconic landmark of New York City, the Ritz-Carlton is no hidden gem. I’ve always loved New York in the Fall and the Ritz-Carlton is the perfect place to see Central Park change colors. It’s giving Meg Ryan Fall.
You can book a special room with a bird’s eye view of Central Park, but my favorite way of seeing the orange and yellow leaves in the park is by foot, which happens to be so convenient since the Ritz is right next door!
14. Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina, Maryland
Peak Foliage Season: mid-to-late October
Stay at the beachfront Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay to admire Maryland’s stunning sunsets and Autumnal landscape. The property spans 342-acres with a golf course, marina, and full-service spa – the most ideal getaway of relaxation. If you’re looking to shop and dine, head to the historic town of Cambridge for a more contemporary vibe.
15. Twin Farms, Vermont
Peak Foliage Season: late-September to early-October
Found in the small pastoral town of Barnard is the award-winning hotel Twin Farms. You’ll be staying on a private estate of over 300 acres with Fall foliage everywhere you turn.
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With top-notch dining on the property, romantic picnics in the fields, and plenty of recreational activities offered by the hotel, you’ll find that you won’t want to leave the estate (even though Burlington and Boston are only a couple hours away).
A perfect getaway amongst the rolling hills and sweeping countryside, Twin Farms is a setting straight from a storybook.
16. The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Vermont
Peak Foliage Season: early-to-mid October
The Lodge at Spruce Peak, part of Destination by Hyatt, is found at the base of Mount Mansfield and Stowe Mountain – the perfect location to overlook the thousands of Sugar Maple trees turning into brilliant shades of reds and golds. The rooms are cozy cabin chic offering lodge suites, studios, and penthouses. This hotel offers many family-friendly activities like hiking, gondola rides, rock climbing, and local horseback riding.
17. Crawford Notch, New Hampshire
Peak Foliage Season: late-September to early-October
New Hampshire is definitely in the running for having the brightest Fall colors you’ll ever see. You’ll see sweeping mountains of orange and red leaves no matter where you’ll go, like Crawford Notch State Park.
Crawford Notch passes through the White Mountains, which is completely covered by red, yellow, and orange trees during peak Fall foliage season. The park has almost 6,000 acres of land that is perfect for hiking under the canopies of vibrant leaves.
18. Washington, Connecticut
Peak Foliage Season: early-October to early-November
You can’t go wrong with visiting any part of New England, as it is the golden standard for the most luscious Fall foliage in America. And we can’t talk about New England without mentioning Washington, Connecticut, the city that inspired Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls (which in my opinion is THE Fall show to watch).
The classic definition of a small homey town, the town offers apple and pumpkin picking, as well as locally made fresh cider donuts. If you visit in October when peak foliage is predicted to occur, don’t miss out on their Annual Wine and Cheese Market.
Of course, the outdoors at this time of year is wonderful with comfortable weather for hiking under the changing trees and kayaking at Lake Waramaug State Park.
19. New River Gorge National Park & Reserve, West Virginia
Peak Foliage Season: mid-October
70,000 acres of mountains, trees, and a whitewater river running through the canyon – New River Gorge is absolutely breathtaking. In October there is Bridge Day, which is the one day a year where people can legally base jump off the New River Gorge Bridge. If you’re not a daredevil, enjoy a hike in the mountains, or even rent a cabin and soak in all the amazing sights this national park has to offer.
20. Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Peak Foliage Season: mid-October to early-November
Blowing Rock is a quaint town in High Country North Carolina. The town is named after the famous rock formation that juts 15,000 above a gorge. The rock also provides a great view of the Blue Ridge Mountains where you’ll see Fall’s colors in full swing.
With miles of unobstructed views, Blowing Rock is the perfect small town to visit for those picturesque Fall images.
21. Hood River, Oregon
Peak Foliage Season: late October
Quite possibly one of the most looked over destinations for fall foliage, Hood River! This small town is only about an hour from the Portland Airport, and boasts the most beautiful scenic drive covered in beautiful foliage that turns autumnal in late October. Read out full guide here!
Tips For Planning Your Fall Foliage Adventure
Timing, timing, timing! It’s key to any fall foliage trip to ensure you get to see what you came for. We’ve listed the typical peak season dates for each destination, but it’s important to do your research. It can change from year to year where one year it’s WAY early and the next WAY late.
Book your accommodations well in advance, and for the ultimate fall cozy vibes, we’re envisioning a cute B&B, inn (like Lorelei’s Dragonfly Inn in Gilmore Girls vibes!) or a cozy cabin. Just imagine stepping out on the deck with a cup of coffee with a view of the beautiful fall colors. For our outdoorsy people, camping or glamping is also a vibe in the fall before temperatures drop!
While you’ll be running to include all your cozy fall sweaters, knee high boots and plaid flannels… be sure to research weather and pack accordingly. It’s not uncommon for higher temps in places like Arizona or Texas, so just be sure to focus on light layers, comfortable shoes or hiking boots for long walks or leaf peeping hikes.
For the best photos, try to capture them during the golden hours… in the morning and evening. Position the light so it’s coming from the back to ensure the fall colors stand out, and play around with the sharpness so you can see the individual leaves.
Travel further than your backyard if you want to see some spectacular Autumn colors. You can find amazing views of Fall foliage no matter where you live in the US, whether that’s near New England, or all the way on the other side of the country in California.
Chasing the changing Fall leaves takes a bit of research and planning, but once you’ve narrowed down which cities and states you want to visit, it’s all about packing your comfy sweaters and hoping that the trees are on track to peak at the right time!
The golden and crimson colors are so worth seeing in person and you might find that the leaves take you to the unlikeliest of places.
