14 Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA: Perfect Fall Foliage Road Trip Spots!

From the forests of New England to the mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the most scenic fall drives in the USA offer some of the most breathtaking views nature has to offer. Whether you’re a photographer, a leaf-peeper, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, these routes promise unforgettable autumn adventures.

As the sweltering heat of summer fades and a crisp chill fills the air, the landscape of the United States transforms into a canvas of warm amber, crimson, and golden hues. There’s no better way to experience this magical transformation than by hitting the road! So get packing!

A loop in New Hampshire shows a road, which is one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, that skirts through trees turning colors.

The 14 Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA (Perfect Fall Foliage Road Trip Spots!)

1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

The NH Route, between Lincoln and Conway, is the Kancamagus Highway you don’t want to miss! It is often ranked at the top of lists featuring the most scenic fall drives in the US since it offers 34 miles of uninterrupted forest, mountain views, and vivid fall colors.

Looking for what to do on this route? Pull over at Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, and scenic overlooks like Sugar Hill for photos. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in the White Mountain National Forest. Visit from late September to mid-October for best views.

An overhead photo in New Hampshire shows a road stretching on the cusp of trees changing colors, going to mountains.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, From Virginia to North Carolina

This route is a big one! Stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains will leave you breathless. This is perhaps the most iconic drive for fall foliage in the Eastern U.S. The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its long stretches of mountains, deep valleys, and panoramic views.

What to do while visiting? Explore hiking trails like Humpback Rocks, stop at Mabry Mill, and take in the view from Linn Cove Viaduct. And note that if you’re visiting higher elevations, it’s best to visit in Mid-October, while late October is best for lower locations. Check out our article on more amazing locations for fall colors in North Carolina!

In Blue Ridge Parkway, which features one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, a road curves beyond a mountain hill with tons of trees.

3. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

Along U.S. Route 30 (the Historic Columbia River Highway), you’ll find cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant foliage. The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic fall drives in the USA’s Pacific Northwest.

We recommend visiting Multnomah Falls, hiking the Eagle Creek Trail, and exploring Hood River’s wineries and orchards. Visit from early to mid-october to make great memories!

On a road in Oregon, a road curves through yellow trees toward mountains with a lake beyond.

4. Skyline Drive, Virginia

The Skyline Drive in Virginia features 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park. As part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive offers an elevated view of Virginia’s colorful forests, especially during peak fall season.

Guests love to stop at the scenic overlooks (there are over 70 options!), hiking the Stony Man Trail, and visiting the Luray Caverns from mid-late October.

The skyline drive in Virginia, which his one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, features a road that is alit with golden, yellow and red hues.

5. Route 100, Vermont

Route 100 in Vermont runs north-south through the central state. It is a classic New England route winds through charming villages, ski towns, and endless rows of sugar maples.

We recommend visiting quaint towns like Stowe and Woodstock, stoping at covered bridges, and sampling local maple syrup and cider. The best time to visit is late September to mid-October.

An overhead shot of vermont shows Stowe, a town that features tons of roads and quaint experiences during fall.

6. The Great River Road, Mississippi River States

The Great River Road covers 3,000 miles through 10 states (form Minnesota to Louisiana!). This historic byway offers diverse scenery, with vibrant fall colors especially stunning in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois.

When traveling, Explore river towns like Galena, IL and Red Wing, MN. Or tour local museums, and enjoy riverfront parks and bluffs! When you’re visiting the northern sections, go visit from early to mid-October.

On the Great River Road, a road curves by the river, which makes it one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA!

7. Adirondack Mountains, New York

Route 73 will take you through Lake Placid or the Olympic Byway when visiting the Adirondack Mountains! The Adirondacks offer some of the most dramatic foliage displays in the Northeast, with forests, lakes, and rugged peaks. It’s a statement visit perfect for photos!

When driving, stopping, and exploring, visit Lake Placid, take a gondola ride at Whiteface Mountain, and paddle in Mirror Lake. Some of the best times to go is late September to early October.

An overhead shot of Adriondack Mountains shows the trees turning vibrant colors, lakes galore and more.

8. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Take the 85-mile loop that is the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway through Taos, Red River, and Eagle Nest. This unique drive combines golden aspens with desert landscapes and dramatic mountain scenery.

What to do on this drive? Visit the Taos Pueblo, hike in Carson National Forest, and explore the art galleries of Taos. Book a trip from late September to mid-October.

In the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, which is one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, mountains in the back are covered with clouds and yellow trees break through the mist.

9. Highway 12, Utah

The Scenic Byway 12 takes you from Bryce Canyon to Capital Reef. Unlike typical forested foliage drives, Utah’s Highway 12 pairs colorful aspens with red rock canyons and open desert skies!

When visiting and exploring Highway 12, don’t be afraid to stop and explore: Hike Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos, drive through Escalante, and watch the sunset at Capitol Reef. Like most places, this is best to visit during the late September to mid-October range.

Highway 12 in Utah features a foggy morning, a road curving a bend and trees slowly turning fall.

10. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas

If you take Highway 21 through Ozark National Forest, the woods will be a unique location that not many explore. Arkansas may not be on every leaf peeper’s radar, but we promise its deep woodlands explode with vibrant reds and oranges in fall.

When exploring, there are tons of things to do here. Camp in the Ozarks, hike the Whitaker Point Trail, or explore Buffalo National River. Just make sure to go from mid-to late October.

A close up of the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, which is one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, shows a curvy road with fall foliage around, leaves dropping to the road.

11. Lake Superior Circle Tour, Michigan/Wisconsin/Minnesota/Ontario

The bend around Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake, features great fall foliage in the USA! This (semi)international drive covers rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and expansive forests. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a particular highlight.

When exploring the tour and states, Visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, explore Apostle Islands, and hike in Minnesota’s North Shore. Just make sure to go between late September and mid-October.

An overhead shot of Lake Superior shows the lake from a viewpoint, with trees turning red and orange around it.

12. California’s Big Sur Coat-Pacific Coast Highway

While not known for traditional foliage, Big Sur offers coastal cliffs, golden grasses, and subtle changes in foliage, all against a dramatic Pacific backdrop. Don’t sleep on Highway 1 from Carmel to San Simeon.

When here, visit Pfeiffer Beach, hike Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and enjoy fresh seafood in Carmel. If you visit in October, there will be fewer crowds, warm weather and soft light for your days exploring.

A close up shot of California's Bug Sur Pacific Coast Highway, which is an unexpected but one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, features a river aglow with the colors of fall.

13. Back Hills Scenic Byway, South Dakota

If you take Highway 385 through Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, you’ll find a stunning setting: The Black Hills combine history, rock formations, and golden aspen groves for a uniquely Western fall experience.

Obviously if you’re here See Mount Rushmore, drive Needles Highway, and visit Wind Cave National Park. Guests seem really like visiting from late September to early October.

A low angle shot of the Black Hills Scenic Byway shows blue skies, trees turning yellow, and mountains.

14. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

If you take Route 2 through the Berkshires, you’ll be on one of the oldest scenic byways in the U.S. The Mohawk Trail combines colonial history, mountain vistas, and covered bridges.

When here, make sure to Shop for artisan goods in Shelburne Falls, hike Mount Greylock, and visit the Bridge of Flowers. Visit in early to mid-October for the best experience!

An overhead shot of the Mohawk Trail, which is one of the Most Scenic Fall Drives in the USA, shows the bend of a road as the trees turn from green to yellow.

Booking & Packing Tips for Your Fall Foliage Road Trip

Planning a road trip along the most scenic fall drives in the USA takes a bit of foresight. Here are some practical tips. If you want more advice, here are mistakes to avoid too!

Booking Tips:

Reserve early. Fall is peak travel season in foliage regions, especially in New England.
Book midweek stays if possible to avoid weekend crowds.
Look for scenic lodging. Mountain lodges, cozy cabins, or bed-and-breakfasts offer immersive experiences.

Packing Tips:

Layers: Fall temperatures vary widely by region and time of day.
Camera gear: Bring your DSLR or phone tripod to capture those golden moments.
Reusable water bottles and snacks: Many scenic routes are remote with limited services.
Hiking boots: You’ll want to explore more than just the road.
Binoculars: Great for spotting birds and distant views.

During the fall foliage months, reds, yellows, greens, oranges and more can be seen taking over the leaves on long stretches of road in New England.

Final Thoughts: Fall Foliage Drives for the Soul

The most scenic fall drives in the USA are more than just about changing leaves. They offer a reconnection with nature, small-town charm, and the peace that comes from a winding road and a canopy of color overhead. Whether you’re meandering through the New England countryside or scaling the cliffs of the Pacific Northwest, every turn in the road brings a fresh palette of sights and experiences.So fill your tank, cue up your favorite playlist, and set off on an autumn road trip you’ll never forget. The open road, dressed in fall’s finest, awaits!