It’s a rare occasion that vast swaths of the United States experience a season in a similar way—but the sepia-toned mosaic of fall foliage soon to sprawl across the country in a few short weeks proves that fall is the one exception to that rule. Starting as early as late September and extending well into November, you can expect to find some combination of red, gold, yellow, and orange bathing the trees from coast to coast.
But anyone well-versed in leaf-peeping—or the colloquial nickname given to any tourist with a proclivity for fall foliage gazing—knows that some states and regions have more colorful and sweeping offerings than others. So for any looking to leaf-peep-maxx this upcoming fall, we took the liberty of rounding up the states, parks, and areas from across the country where you can expect to find the most vibrant fall tableaus come this October.
Blue Ridge Mountains, North Georgia
Way down on the south of the eastern shore you’ll find a range of mountains absolutely awash for fall. The Blue Ridge Mountain region of North Georgia makes up a smaller enclave of the greater Appalachian Mountains—and though you can’t go wrong with any stop along the Appalachian Trail when it comes to fall foliage, this little corner right on the border between Georgia and Tennessee is especially ideal for the changing seasons. The Southern climate makes things a little milder, without having to sacrifice the fall grandeur. The area skews more towards nature aficionados, with plenty of nature paths and mountain trails to climb. One particular favorite includes Brasstown Bald, where you can catch the best view of the leaves in peak color.
Where to stay in the Blue Ridge Mountains:
- A charming Victorian B&B: Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast
- A peaceful mountain escape: The Copperhead Lodge
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
When it comes to the idyllic pastoral regions of New England, Massachusetts’s Berkshires are right up there with the likes of New York’s Adirondacks. One look around and you can see exactly how the lush area inspired writers like Edith Wharton and artists like Norman Rockwell (and if you don’t, just take a quick trip to the Norman Rockwell Museum). Other highlights for our Berkshires guide includes shopping at stores like Fluff Alpaca, hiking up Monument Mountain’s three different trails, grabbing some coffee beans from West Stockbridge’s famous No. Six Depot, and ordering a bite off the farm-to-table menu at Prairie Whale. Pair all of that with the area’s bustling boutique hotel scene in Lenox, Massachusetts, and you’ve got one must-see stop on your Great American leaf-peeping tour.
Where to stay in the Berkshires:
- For an artistic flair: 33 Main
- A motor-lodge-turned luxury hotel: Life House
Stowe, Vermont
Nestled in the embrace of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Stowe might be known for its slopes and skiing—but it’s also one of the best places to catch a verifiable sea of fall foliage come October and November. This is your quintessential idyllic northern New England escape. While it’s had its fair share of development, there are plenty of locals who reside in the town year-round. Pre-game leaf-peeping by exploring the microbrewing scene or shopping for some top-of-the-line maple products at Shaw’s General Store. It’s also something of a hikers paradise, with absolutely no small shortage of trails for the ambitious explorers and gentler strollers alike. No matter what you choose, there’s sure to be one fantastic view.
Where to stay in Stowe, Vermont:
- For a hygge vibe: Field Guide
- A spa-retreat: AWOL Stowe
- A traditionally intimate ski lodge: Edson Hill
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Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains that trail up the border between Tennessee and North Carolina earned their name from the natural, gauzy fog that often drapes across the region. It gives the area an ethereal, almost otherworldly quality during any time of year. Add in a mosaic of fall foliage and it’s no wonder why this spot is home to some of the best fall foliage in the USA. See the sights from the famous Cades Cove loop or hike the Laurel Falls Trail or any of the many paths along the mountains. You’ll also find a range of different lodging options in the area—including glamping experiences, cabins, farms, and more.
Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains:
- An irreverent farm getaway: Blackberry Farm
- A sprawling ranch: Cataloochee Ranch
- A one-of-a-kind glamping stay: Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of those cold weather destinations that’s spoken of with an undeniable air of prestige—the same way you would speak of Lake Como in the spring, or the French Riviera in summer. Like Stowe, it’s most famous for its skiing, but it’s got its fair share of foliage to show off around fall. Especially ideal for those who have a taste for the finer things in life, Aspen’s also a prime luxury shopping destination. Shop high end designer brands like Prada or Gucci, and grab a chic cowboy hat from Kemo Sabe. And you can’t forget the decadent fare available at eateries like Bosq, White House Tavern, Matsushia, and more.
Where to stay in Aspen, Colorado:
- An Aspen mainstay: Hotel Jerome
Autumn on Silver Creek, IdahoGetty
Sun Valley, Idaho
Another skiing staple, Sun Valley has long charmed celebrities and nature-lovers alike. It’s renowned for its skiing but offers golden escape during the shoulder season of fall. Sun Valley’s especially great for any leaf peepers who happen to also be fans of Ernest Hemingway. The famous Lost Generation author loved the region and even finished his book For Whom The Bell Tolls in the Sun Valley Resort’s suite 206. Hemingway’s admiration of and attachment to the area is immortalized with with a memorial and free audio walking tour.
Where to stay in Sun Valley, Idaho:
- A historic ski resort: Sun Valley Resort
- For a laidback lodging: Limelight Ketchum
North Cascades, Washington
New England often takes the cake when it comes to fall foliage, but don’t write off the Pacific Northwest. One drive along the Cascade Loop will show that this craggy region has its own verdancy amid the snow dusted mountains. Often referred to as the American Alps, there are plenty of peaks and summits to see the leaves—such as the Washington Pass overlooking the Liberty Bell Mountain—while hiking trails like the Maple Pass Loop and Blue Lake offer some of the best opportunities for leaf-peeping.
Where to stay in North Cascades, Washington:
- A floating cabin: Ross Lake Resort
Laurel Hill, Pennsylvania
There are plenty of trails and state parks you can take advantage of to gaze at the Pennsylvania foliage. There’s Mount Davis, Ohiopyle State Park, Laurel Hill state park, and so much more. You really can’t go wrong with any of them. But we’d recommend conducting your leaf peeping from inside, specifically inside one of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most well-known works. Dubbed Fallingwater, this quintessentially mid-century modern structure sits atop a waterfall and is entirely ensconced in a forest of trees—making its airy interiors the ideal framing for the lush colors of fall.
Where to stay in Laurel Highlands Pennsylvania:
- A sprawling estate: Nemacolin
Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire
Rounding off the New England stops, this nature reserve is nestled in the middle of New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. Here, you’ll find parts of the larger Appalachian Trail, as well as hikes up well-known peaks like Artist Bluff—which afford panoramic views of the area’s famous Echo Lake. The body of water sits at the base of Cannon Mountain and perfectly reflects the prism of color around it, even more so when those colors are the rich reds, golds, yellows, and oranges of fall.
Where to stay in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire:
- A mansion inn: The Franconia Inn
Adirondacks, New York
You just need to watch one episode of Gilmore Girls to know that New England is one of the top best places to see fall foliage, and the Adirondacks is one of the region’s best fall exports. Located just about four hours outside of New York City, this mountain area encompasses much of New York’s storied “upstate” region—where people escape from the city to ensconce themselves in the privacy of cozy cabins, lake houses, and more. Here, you’ll find over 3,000 lakes and ponds—such as the famous Lake Placid—and the Adirondack High Peaks. Grab a quick drink at Raquette River Brewing or fill up on French-Canadian comfort dishes at Woodshed on Park, before heading out to take in the vivid leaves.
Where to stay in the Adirondacks:
- For a luxurious lake island resort: The Sagamore Resort
- A rustic log cabin experience: The Point
- A Lake Placid classic: Great Adirondack Hotel
Columbia River Gorge, Northern Oregon
Just above California and below other fall foliage fave Washington, the Northern Oregon region similarly offers plenty of mystically foggy places to peep some leaves. What’s even better is you get the best of both worlds with forests and beaches colliding to make up this scenic coast. Travel through the Columbia River Gorge to see all the leaves, then take a road trip out to Cannon Beach to top the adventure off.
Where to stay in Northern Oregon:
- A water-front property: Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa
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Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and not too far from the border of West Virginia, Shenandoah National Park extends about 197,439 acres across Virginia’s Blue Ridge region. It’s got breathtaking views and nature, making it ideal to catch some of the best fall foliage in the USA. After all, there’s a reason we named it one of the best national parks to enjoy during the fall. Shenandoah is mostly visited for hiking, with over 500 miles of trails—many of which you can find along the area’s Skyline Drive—that offer ample opportunity to take in nature, no matter the time of year.
Where to stay in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia:
- A grand historic estate: The Blackburn Inn
- A contemporary cabin: Iris Inn
- A fairytale inn: The Historic Inn at Oakdene
Source: www.cntraveler.com
