Fall is the season when nature paints the world in shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold. For those who want to experience the magic of fall foliage, road trips provide the perfect opportunity to witness the vibrant colors in all their glory. From the mountains of New England to the rolling hills of the Midwest, here are some of the best fall foliage road trips in the U.S.
1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Located in the White Mountains, the Kancamagus Highway is one of the most famous fall foliage routes in the U.S. The 34.5-mile stretch of road runs through the White Mountain National Forest and offers breathtaking views of colorful trees, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Peak foliage typically occurs in early October, making it the perfect destination for fall color enthusiasts.
-
Highlights:
-
Sabbaday Falls
-
Panoramic views from Owl’s Head Lookout
-
Vibrant colors reflecting off Lower Falls
-
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” and for good reason. Stretching for 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, this scenic road offers stunning views of colorful leaves and mountain landscapes. During fall, the parkway becomes a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. The peak foliage time is typically mid-October.
-
Highlights:
-
Linville Falls and Craggy Gardens
-
The views from Grandfather Mountain
-
The Blue Ridge Music Center for a cultural stop
-
3. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts
The Mohawk Trail is one of the oldest scenic routes in the U.S. and offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the Northeast. Running through the Berkshire Mountains, this 63-mile road takes you through quaint towns, dense forests, and scenic overlooks. The combination of rolling hills, vibrant trees, and charming villages makes this an ideal fall road trip.
-
Highlights:
-
The panoramic views from Mount Greylock
-
Natural Bridge State Park for natural beauty
-
The Hail to the Sunrise sculpture
-
4. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota down to Louisiana, offering diverse landscapes and incredible fall colors. This scenic drive provides views of bluffs, wetlands, and riverbanks, with vibrant fall foliage contrasting beautifully against the river’s calm waters. The drive stretches across several states, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming small towns.
-
Highlights:
-
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin
-
The Natchez Trace Parkway
-
Picturesque towns like Hannibal, Missouri and Vicksburg, Mississippi
-
5. Cascade Loop, Washington
For a fall foliage road trip with a twist, the Cascade Loop in Washington offers views of the Cascade Mountains, forests, and charming small towns. The loop takes you through Leavenworth, a German-style village, and includes stops at North Cascades National Park and Lake Chelan. This drive offers a mix of colorful fall leaves, alpine peaks, and stunning lakes.
-
Highlights:
-
Stevens Pass for a panoramic mountain view
-
The picturesque Lake Wenatchee
-
Leavenworth’s Oktoberfest if you visit in late September or early October
-
6. The Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is known for its vibrant fall colors, and a road trip through this region is a must for foliage lovers. The Scenic Byway through the Hiawatha National Forest and along the shores of Lake Superior offers stunning views of golden aspens and fiery maples. Mid-September through mid-October is the best time to visit.
-
Highlights:
-
The dramatic views from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
-
Tahquamenon Falls State Park for stunning waterfall views
-
The charming town of Munising
-
7. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge offers one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest, especially during the fall. The Historic Columbia River Highway offers incredible views of waterfalls, vibrant forests, and the Columbia River. As the leaves change, the region transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a perfect fall foliage destination.
-
Highlights:
-
Multnomah Falls and Horsetail Falls
-
Scenic overlooks from Crown Point
-
The Rowena Crest Viewpoint
-
8. Scenic Route 100, Vermont
Known as the Vermont Scenic Route, Route 100 offers some of the best fall foliage views in New England. This 216-mile route runs through the heart of Vermont, taking travelers through vibrant forests, charming villages, and past farms. The foliage is especially stunning during the first two weeks of October, when the state’s iconic maples, oaks, and birches are at their peak.
-
Highlights:
-
The colorful Mad River Valley
-
The small town of Stowe, home to the famous Mount Mansfield
-
The view from The Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook
-
9. Aspen, Colorado
While many associate Aspen with skiing, it’s also a beautiful fall destination. The surrounding Rocky Mountains turn gold in the fall, as the aspen trees, known for their bright yellow foliage, are at their peak. A drive through Independence Pass or along Maroon Bells Scenic Area offers unforgettable views of the colorful trees and snow-capped peaks.
-
Highlights:
-
The stunning Maroon Bells mountains
-
Hiking through Hunter Creek Trail for fall views
-
Independence Pass, one of the highest paved roads in North America
-
10. The Ozarks, Arkansas/Missouri
The Ozarks region offers a beautiful blend of rolling hills, forests, and lakes that come alive with color in the fall. Scenic Route 7 is a popular drive through the Ozark National Forest, offering vibrant fall foliage, especially in late October. The route winds through charming towns, past mountain peaks, and alongside clear lakes.
-
Highlights:
-
Petit Jean State Park and its stunning views
-
The Ozark Highlands Trail for outdoor enthusiasts
-
Blanchard Springs Caverns for a unique stop
-
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet drive through the mountains or explore vibrant forests, these fall foliage road trips offer the best of the season’s beauty. From the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Cascade Loop, each route provides unique views and unforgettable experiences. Don’t forget your camera, because the colors of fall are sure to leave you in awe at every turn.
