🍁 Chasing the Colors of Fall: Where to See Autumn’s Best Show

There’s something magical about the way fall transforms the world around us. One day you’re driving past the same stretch of road you’ve seen a hundred times, and the next… it’s ablaze with fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep, cozy oranges.

Fall foliage isn’t just about the leaves — it’s about the way the air feels crisp in the morning, how coffee tastes better with a cinnamon sprinkle, and how you suddenly start Googling “best pumpkin patches near me.”

If you’re ready to trade summer’s sunshine for autumn’s glow, here are some of the best places to catch peak fall colors — and a few travel tips to make the most of it.

New England: The Classic Choice

When it comes to fall foliage, New England is the gold standard (literally). Vermont’s rolling hills, Maine’s rugged coastline, and New Hampshire’s White Mountains create the kind of landscapes that belong on postcards.When to Go: Late September to mid-OctoberDon’t Miss: The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire — a scenic drive that will make you want to pull over every mile.

The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

If you love your fall colors with a side of misty mountain mornings, this is your place. The elevation changes here mean a long foliage season — and the views from Clingmans Dome? Chef’s kiss.When to Go: Mid-October to early NovemberDon’t Miss: The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for quiet, less-crowded leaf peeping.

Colorado’s Aspen Glow

Not all fall colors are created equal — and the bright yellow of aspens against Colorado’s blue skies is proof. Whether you’re driving through the San Juan Skyway or hiking near Crested Butte, this is fall on another level.When to Go: Mid-September to early OctoberDon’t Miss: Maroon Bells for iconic mountain-and-lake reflections framed in gold.

The Ozarks, Arkansas & Missouri

Sometimes, the best fall trip is closer to home. The Ozark Mountains surprise many with their vibrant mix of maples, oaks, and hickories. Plus, you can pair your leaf peeping with small-town charm and farm-to-table comfort food.When to Go: Late October to early NovemberDon’t Miss: Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas — a winding route that turns into a fall wonderland.

Canada’s Laurentians

If you want a little international flavor, head north. Just an hour from Montreal, the Laurentian Mountains explode with color each fall, and the charming villages tucked in between make for the coziest road trip stops.When to Go: Late September to mid-OctoberDon’t Miss: Taking a gondola ride up Mont Tremblant for panoramic leaf views.

Travel Tips for the Perfect Fall Foliage Trip

🍂 Book early — October weekends in foliage hotspots sell out fast.

🍂 Layer up — mornings and evenings can be chilly even when afternoons are warm.

🍂 Take the back roads — slower drives mean better photo stops (and fewer crowds).

🍂 Stay flexible — peak color dates shift depending on weather, so have a few alternate spots in mind.

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Fall only gives us a few short weeks of magic — but if you plan it right, you can chase the colors from September through November and see them at their best.

Ready to plan your fall escape? We will help you find the perfect route, cozy stays, and can’t-miss stops along the way.