21 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States
by Cindi Sutter, Founder & Editor Spirited Table® — All content provided by Travel & Leisure
CREDIT: FRANK SPINELLI/GETTY IMAGES
CREDIT: FRANK SPINELLI/GETTY IMAGES
Editor's Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.
There might be a lot of people out there who are not ready for summer to end, but it's not all bad news. It's time for sweater weather, hot apple cider, and best of all, seeing the leaves change from the lush greens of summer to the bright golds, oranges, and reds of autumn, so we've rounded up the best places to see fall foliage around the country.
Related:The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in New England
Over the next few months, each state will experience its own, unique view of fall. While many people associate watching the leaves change with weekend getaways to the Northeast, there are plenty of places to see the stunning seasonal views throughout the country. Classic leafy views in Maine, New Hampshire, and New York are always a great go-to, but you can also find amazing leaf changing action in states like Georgia and New Mexico.
Related: More fall vacation ideas
Oak, ash, maple, and hickory trees are transforming before your very eyes all over the United States. And every landscape looks like a perfect postcard.
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Nature lovers can truly enjoy some wonderful scenery and even better activities throughout the fall in national and state parks. As the weather gets colder, leaf peepers can enjoy places like Ozark National Forest, Massapequa Reserve, and Hunter Mountain even more.
Related: 14 Fall Road Trips for Seeing the Best Fall Foliage — and a Whole Lot More
The crisp fall winds are already starting to blow, so it's no wonder people are itching to get in their cars for some scenic driving. Luckily, peak leaf peeping season is coming sooner than you might think.
Perhaps it's time to start packing the binoculars, strapping on the hiking boots, and firing up the Instagram feeds for some autumn adventures.
Bar Harbor, Maine
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In mid-October, Bar Harbor is a hotbed of activity for tourists who are itching to get their fill of salty, sea air while they see the gorgeous colors of autumn. There are quaint shops to visit downtown, and many visitors can also kayak or go bird and whale watching in Acadia National Park.
Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
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Ozark National Forest has more than 1.2 million acres of spectacular scenery. During October, fall foliage is at its peak, and you can find yourself strolling through the beautiful fall hues of gold, orange, and red. Plus, there are plenty of mountains, springs, rivers, and breathtaking parks to photograph.
Catskill Mountains, New York
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The Catskill Mountains are practically the perfect fall landscape. Take in the scenery on a hike or scenic drive before checking out the local cideries and breweries. You'll love the culture of the Catskills towns like Livingston Manor, Woodstock, and New Paltz.
Huntington, New York
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Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve has over 1,600 acres and 27 trails. Maples, tulips, hickory, sassafras, and dogwoods are some of the trees in this beautiful area, making it an exciting place to hike as the leaves change.
Stowe, Vermont
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It's no wonder Stowe is called "Fall's Color Capital." With so many plants turning varying shades of yellow, red, orange, and brown from September through mid-October, it's a spectacular place to hike and ride. Even if the weather gets chilly, you can take a scenic drive down the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road.
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