I’ve always been one to chase the leaves each fall. There’s something about that fleeting burst of color that makes me want to hit the road, breathe the crisp air, and soak in every last bit of it before winter rolls in. Over the years, these places have become my go-to spots for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

Peak Time: Late September to mid-October
Where to Go: Stowe, Woodstock, Green Mountain Byway

Vermont is the postcard-perfect vision of fall. Drive the Green Mountain Byway between Stowe and Waterbury, where the rolling hills are blanketed in shades of crimson and gold. Stop in the charming village of Woodstock, known for its covered bridges and the famous Sleepy Hollow Farm — one of the most photographed spots in Vermont. Don’t miss local sugarhouses for maple syrup tastings, or book a stay at a historic inn with views of the hillsides.

Travel Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the best light for photos, and grab cider donuts from a roadside stand!

Peak Time: Early to mid-October
Where to Go: Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch State Park, Conway Scenic Railroad

The “Kanc” is a must-drive during fall. This 34-mile scenic byway takes you through the White Mountain National Forest, with countless pull-offs like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge. For a different view, ride the Conway Scenic Railroad through the valleys, or hike around Franconia Notch State Park where you’ll see the dramatic cliffs and colorful forests mirrored in Echo Lake.

Travel Tip: Book lodging in North Conway or Lincoln well in advance — these towns fill up fast!

Peak Time: Mid-October to early November
Where to Go: Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The Smokies have one of the longest fall seasons thanks to their elevation range. Cades Cove is like stepping back in time with its historic cabins and abundant wildlife — you’ll often spot deer and black bears among the golden forests. For panoramic views, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park. Or take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail — a one-way loop that’s stunning in autumn and offers short hikes to waterfalls like Grotto Falls.

Travel Tip: Try to visit on a weekday to avoid traffic jams on the scenic roads.

Peak Time: Early to late October
Where to Go: Mabry Mill, Peaks of Otter, Linn Cove Viaduct

The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles of leaf-peeping paradise. In Virginia, Mabry Mill is one of the most photographed spots — especially pretty when framed by colorful maples. The Peaks of Otter area has easy trails and picnic areas surrounded by brilliant foliage. Farther south, the Linn Cove Viaduct is an engineering marvel that hugs Grandfather Mountain, with sweeping mountain views that are spectacular in autumn.

Travel Tip: Pack a picnic and plan to pull over often — there are 200 overlooks along the Parkway!

Peak Time: Late September to early October
Where to Go: Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, High Peaks Region

The Adirondacks are a dream for hikers and paddlers alike. Stay in Lake Placid for charming shops, breweries, and mountain town vibes. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle across Mirror Lake and take in the reflection of blazing maples and birches. If you’re up for an adventure, hike one of the 46 High Peaks or take a drive up Whiteface Mountain for views that stretch all the way to Canada.

Travel Tip: Take the scenic Olympic Byway for beautiful photo ops and historic sites from the 1980 Winter Olympics.

Peak Time: Late September to mid-October
Where to Go: Porcupine Mountains, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Keweenaw Peninsula

Michigan’s UP is one of my favorite hidden gems for fall. The Porcupine Mountains offer miles of rugged wilderness, waterfalls, and Lake Superior views that are jaw-dropping with the autumn palette. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is known for its dramatic cliffs, but the inland forests here are just as stunning. The Keweenaw Peninsula, with its historic copper mining towns and shoreline drives, feels like a step back in time.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for sudden weather changes — pack warm clothes and sturdy boots!

Peak Time: Mid-September to early October
Where to Go: Maroon Bells, Kebler Pass, Million Dollar Highway

Colorado’s aspens glow like liquid gold when the sun hits just right. The Maroon Bells, near Aspen, are iconic — two towering peaks reflecting in Maroon Lake with bright yellow aspens surrounding you. Drive Kebler Pass near Crested Butte for one of the largest aspen groves in North America. Farther south, the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is breathtaking — twisting roads with mountain passes and forests painted gold.

Travel Tip: Higher elevations peak earlier, so plan your route to hit multiple elevations for the longest color season.

Peak Time: Mid-October to early November
Where to Go: Multnomah Falls, Historic Columbia River Highway, Hood River Fruit Loop

The Columbia River Gorge combines dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and forests that turn every shade of autumn. Stop at Multnomah Falls — Oregon’s tallest — and hike the short trails for different vantage points. Drive the Historic Columbia River Highway to see iconic viewpoints like Vista House. The Hood River Fruit Loop is a great detour — local orchards, pumpkin patches, and cideries make it feel like the ultimate fall festival.

Travel Tip: Try the fresh apple cider donuts at the local farm stands!

No stay at the El Rancho Hotel would be complete without browsing through The Last Trading Post, the hotel’s on-site gift shop and gallery. This isn’t your typical tourist stop full of trinkets—The Last Trading Post is an authentic showcase of Native American craftsmanship and Southwestern artistry. Here, you’ll find beautiful handmade Navajo rugs, intricate Hopi Kachina dolls, stunning Zuni jewelry, handwoven baskets, pottery, and unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.

Peak Time: Early to mid-October
Where to Go: Delaware Water Gap, Hickory Run State Park, Jim Thorpe

The Poconos are close to my heart. Hickory Run State Park is home to the Boulder Field and miles of trails through colorful forests. The Delaware Water Gap offers waterfalls and overlooks that come alive with fall hues. The historic town of Jim Thorpe, with its Victorian architecture and scenic railway, is pure autumn charm — hop on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a vintage fall foliage ride!

Travel Tip: Pair your leaf peeping with a visit to a local harvest festival or craft fair — they pop up everywhere in October.

*  Use a foliage tracker: Sites like SmokyMountains.com have handy maps.
*  Travel midweek: You’ll beat the crowds and get better hotel deals.
* Pack layers: Crisp mornings and chilly evenings mean sweaters, hats, and maybe even gloves.
* Bring your camera: A phone works too — but a real camera captures those colors beautifully.
* Support local: Stop at farm stands, coffee shops, and small inns — it makes the experience even sweeter.

Every year when the first crisp breeze hits, I find myself looking forward to these fleeting weeks when the world seems to glow from the inside out. There’s something so special about the simple joy of watching the trees transform into a sea of fiery reds, golden yellows, and warm oranges. It’s nature’s way of reminding us that change can be beautiful — and that sometimes the most magical things don’t last forever.

What I love most about chasing fall foliage is that it gives you permission to slow down. It’s not about rushing from one place to the next; it’s about taking the scenic route, rolling down your window to breathe in that fresh autumn air, stopping at a roadside farm for a jug of fresh cider, and wandering through a charming small town you might have otherwise passed by.

Every spot on this list has its own charm — whether it’s the quiet, misty mornings in the Smokies, the golden aspens shimmering on a Colorado mountain pass, or the cozy cafes tucked away in New England villages. And while you can plan your route and check the foliage maps, part of the adventure is letting the road surprise you. Sometimes the best views are the ones you stumble on when you take a random turn down a country lane.

So, grab your favorite flannel, pack a thermos of something warm, and head out in search of the colors that make your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re hiking through a national park, cruising along a scenic byway, or just wandering through your local trails, I hope you find yourself surrounded by the magic of the season.

 Happy leaf peeping!