10 Best States For Fall Foliage in the USA

When summer’s warmth fades and the air turns crisp, nature begins its most spectacular transformation: fall. Across the United States, the season brings an explosion of color—crimson reds, burnt oranges, golden yellows—that drape the landscape in rich, vivid hues. So, what are the 10 best states for fall foliage in the USA?

For travelers and leaf-peepers alike, this is one of the most anticipated times of year! With so many destinations offering beautiful autumn vistas, where should you go? Ranging from the quintessential charm of New England to the rugged alpine brilliance of Colorado, you’ve got options. Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip, hiking adventure, or a cozy weekend getaway, these states offer unforgettable fall experiences.

In Vermont, one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, a street is covered by tree limbs that reach across the pavement toward each other, bright with fall colors.

The 10 Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA

1. Vermont

It’s no surprise that Vermont often tops the list of the best states for fall foliage in the USA. With over three-quarters of the state covered in forest, Vermont offers a dense, colorful canopy of sugar maples, birches, and oaks. From late September through mid-October, the Green Mountain State becomes a painter’s palette of red, orange, and yellow.

Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along Route 100, often called the “Skier’s Highway,” which winds through picturesque towns like Stowe, Woodstock, and Waitsfield. Hiking trails in the Green Mountains offer sweeping views, and charming inns, cider mills, and farm stands add to the autumn magic. Don’t miss a chance to sample fresh apple cider and maple syrup straight from the source.

fall foliage in the background with woman wearing yellow skirt standing in front of a fence

2. New Hampshire

Neighboring Vermont, New Hampshire boasts equally impressive fall displays and is another top contender for the best states for fall foliage in the USA. The White Mountains are the crown jewel here, with color blanketing the rugged terrain from late September into mid-October.

One of the most iconic fall drives in the U.S. is the Kancamagus Highway, a 34-mile stretch through the White Mountain National Forest. The route offers stunning overlooks, waterfalls, and trails to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of hiking, zip-lining, and gondola rides that offer birds-eye views of the colorful canopy below.

woman standing on a rock wearing leggings and a yellow hat and a dark sweater looking out at a lake surrounded by orange trees from the fall foliage and a cloudy sky

3. Maine

Maine offers a unique blend of coastal and inland foliage, making it a diverse destination for fall travelers. Early October is prime time for viewing, especially in northern and central parts of the state. The state’s vast forests erupt in vibrant shades, often peaking earlier than other New England states due to its northern latitude.

Acadia National Park is one of the best places to experience Maine’s fall colors. Picture sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, with vibrant leaves below and the Atlantic Ocean stretching into the distance. You can hike forested trails, bike the carriage roads, or enjoy a lobster roll by the seaside. Maine’s quiet beauty and dramatic landscapes make it a must visit.

In Maine a lake is pristine and calm with rocky shores and fall foliage all around.

4. Massachusetts

From the western Berkshires to the coastal charm of Cape Ann, Massachusetts offers a full range of fall experiences. While the foliage tends to peak in early to mid-October, you can find stunning colors in every corner of the state.

The Berkshires are especially enchanting, with rolling hills, scenic byways, and small towns that come alive with harvest festivals and farmers’ markets. Stroll through the historic streets of Stockbridge or hike to Mount Greylock, the state’s highest peak. Massachusetts also offers cultural delights during autumn, with fall concerts, art exhibits, and farm-to-table dining in full swing.

In Massachusetts, one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, a bridge hovers over a water at golden hour, the orange leaves set ablaze.

5. New York

New York State has a diversity of landscapes that make it one of the best states for fall foliage in the USA. From the Adirondack Mountains to the Hudson Valley, there’s no shortage of panoramic views and peaceful forest escapes.

The Adirondacks begin to change color in late September, with peak season reaching the Catskills and Hudson Valley by mid-October. Take a drive along Route 73 near Lake Placid, hike in the Catskills, or enjoy wine tastings at a Hudson Valley vineyard. Don’t forget the Finger Lakes region, where vibrant colors reflect beautifully off the water’s surface.

In New York you can see tall city buildings beyond the fall foliage of trees that city on the water of a local park.

6. Michigan

Michigan, especially its Upper Peninsula, offers a fall foliage experience that rivals any in the Northeast. Dense forests, dramatic cliffs, and Great Lake shorelines combine for a striking autumn display.

The Upper Peninsula hits peak foliage in early October, especially along scenic byways like the Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor. In the Lower Peninsula, areas like Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the Tunnel of Trees offer equally stunning views. Michigan also offers apple orchards, fall festivals, and cozy lakefront cabins, making it one of the best states for fall foliage in the USA for both natural beauty and autumn activities.

In Michigan, one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, an overhead photo show tons of trees tall and changing colors as a river runs into a waterfall.

7. Minnesota

Minnesota may be best known for its lakes, but in the fall, it transforms into a wonderland of color. The state’s North Shore, stretching along Lake Superior, is a particularly magical place from mid-September through early October.

The Superior Hiking Trail offers incredible views of waterfalls, bluffs, and hardwood forests that explode with color. The inland Boundary Waters area is also stunning, with remote canoe routes framed by golden birches and deep red maples. Visit charming small towns like Grand Marais, or drive the North Shore Scenic Byway for one of the Midwest’s best fall experiences.

In Minnesota a photo shows a coast of water, a lighthouse on a ledge with yellow and orange foliage around it.

8. Wisconsin

Wisconsin flies under the radar, but it’s undeniably one of the best states for fall foliage in the USA. Northern Wisconsin and the Door County Peninsula offer a stunning blend of color, water, and rolling hills.

Door County, in particular, shines in the fall. With over 300 miles of shoreline, the peninsula is dotted with lighthouses, orchards, and charming villages. Fall festivals, scenic boat tours, and hikes in Peninsula State Park provide endless entertainment. Inland areas like the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest are also worth exploring for a more rustic, wilderness experience.

IN Wisconsin boats dock on the coast during sunset, with all the trees beyond them turning red and orange and yellow.

9. Colorado

While the Rockies may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about fall foliage, Colorado earns its spot on the list for its unique alpine show. Instead of maples and oaks, you’ll find vast groves of golden aspens and even high-altitude larches that turn brilliant yellow in late September.

Aspen, Crested Butte, and the San Juan Mountains are especially vibrant, with fall colors often set against snow-dusted peaks. Scenic drives like the San Juan Skyway or the Million Dollar Highway are breathtaking. Visitors can hike, bike, or take gondola rides through golden forests, making Colorado a must-see among the best states for fall foliage in the USA.

In Colorado, which is one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, mountains are in the backdrop of tons of trees slowly turning into their fall colors.

10. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania may be an unexpected entry, but the Keystone State offers over 100 species of deciduous trees and one of the longest fall color seasons in the country. From mid-September through early November, you can find changing leaves across its diverse regions.

The Pocono Mountains, Allegheny National Forest, and the Laurel Highlands are all prime leaf-peeping destinations. With scenic drives, hiking trails, covered bridges, and charming small towns, Pennsylvania combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. It’s a hidden gem!

In Pennsylvania, which is one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, trees line a lake, slowly turning from green to orange and yellow and red.

Tips for Fall Foliage Trips

When to Go:

Timing is everything when planning a fall foliage trip. Leaves begin to change in northern and higher elevation areas first, usually in mid to late September. Southern and lower elevation regions peak in mid to late October. Check real-time fall foliage maps like those from state tourism sites or the Smoky Mountains Foliage Prediction Map to plan your trip within a 1-2 week window of peak color.

An overhead shot of fall foliage in New Hampshire shows trees turning colors as mist rives above hills and water.

What to Pack

Layers: Fall weather can vary widely from chilly mornings to warm afternoons. Pack long sleeves, sweaters, a warm jacket, and a rain shell.
Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re hiking or strolling through small towns, you’ll want sturdy footwear with good grip.
Camera and gear: Bring a quality camera or phone with extra batteries and memory. A tripod and polarizing lens can enhance your photos.
Binoculars: Great for spotting wildlife or viewing distant hillsides.
Snacks and water: Especially if you’ll be driving rural routes or hiking.

A couple sits on a rock formation, overlooking a river and the trees as they turn colors.

Booking Tips

Book early: Fall foliage season is short and highly popular. Accommodations in small towns and national parks can fill up quickly.
Stay flexible: Because peak colors shift slightly every year, consider booking refundable lodging and watching foliage updates as your trip approaches.
Consider weekdays: Avoid crowds by visiting popular destinations midweek rather than weekends.
Explore nearby gems: Some of the most colorful spots are found just off the beaten path—state parks, scenic byways, and small towns often offer the best views without the crowds.

Need more help? Here are some tips for fall foliage visits and trips!

In Vermont, which is one of the Best States for Fall Foliage in the USA, a car winds through trees as they change colors in the fall.

Final Thoughts

The magic of fall is fleeting, but unforgettable. From the fiery reds of Vermont to the golden aspens of Colorado, the best states for fall foliage in the USA offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cozy seasonal charm. Whether you’re driving scenic highways, hiking colorful trails, or sipping cider in a small-town orchard, the memories you make chasing fall colors will last long after the leaves have fallen.Let the season inspire your next road trip—because autumn, in all its fleeting glory, is one journey worth taking!!