Every fall, forests across the United States put on one of nature’s best shows. Trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold, mountain landscapes take on a whole new look, and small towns seem even more inviting.
And honestly, there’s no better way to enjoy fall foliage than from the open road.
You don’t have to travel to New England to experience spectacular autumn colors. From the Adirondacks and Blue Ridge Mountains to the Eastern Sierra, Utah’s high country, and even the mountains of Nevada, fall foliage can be found all across the country. The trick is knowing where to go and when to go.
Fall color timing can change from year to year depending on temperatures, rainfall, and elevation, so it’s always smart to check local foliage reports before your trip. Higher elevations generally change first, followed by lower elevations as the season progresses.
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If you’re ready to plan a fall road trip, these scenic drives are some of the best places in the U.S. to chase colorful leaves.
East Coast Fall Road Trips
Park Loop Road – Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park in the fall is pure magic. Add rugged coastline, colorful forests, mountain views, and the charming town of Bar Harbor, and you have one of the best fall road trips in New England.
One of the best ways to experience autumn in Acadia is along Park Loop Road. The route winds through forests and along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Some of the best fall foliage can be found around Gorham Mountain, the Beehive, the Wild Gardens of Acadia, and Jordan Pond.
The combination of brilliant foliage and dramatic ocean scenery makes Acadia especially beautiful in autumn.
Best time for fall colors: Early to mid-October
Kancamagus Highway – New Hampshire
The Kancamagus Highway, affectionately known as “The Kanc,” is one of the most famous fall foliage drives in the United States.
The 34-mile scenic highway crosses New Hampshire’s White Mountains, passing through dense forests, mountain valleys, waterfalls, covered bridges, and countless scenic overlooks.
Popular stops include Albany Covered Bridge, Lower Falls, Sabbaday Falls Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, Kancamagus Pass Overlook, and Pemigewasset Overlook. Don’t rush this drive. The road itself is the attraction, and there are plenty of pull-offs where you can stop for photos and short walks.
Best time for fall colors: Late September through early October
Pro Tip: If you want video of your trip or a way to get pictures you may miss as you drive, use a dash cam. We use this Rove R2-4K and it catches images we didn’t even notice, and the video is really clear.
Route 100 – Vermont
If classic New England scenery is what you’re after, Vermont Route 100 belongs on your fall road trip list. The timing of fall color moves from north to south, so you can sometimes extend your foliage road trip simply by following the changing colors down the state.
The highway runs for more than 200 miles through Vermont, passing rolling farmland, covered bridges, mountain scenery, small towns, and some seriously photogenic fall foliage. You could spend several days exploring the entire route, but the section between Stowe and Ludlow is particularly beautiful in autumn.
Be sure to stop in Stowe, visit Moss Glen Falls, and explore the charming towns of Weston and Ludlow.
Best time for fall colors: Late September to mid-October
Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway – New York
The Adirondacks are spectacular in autumn, and the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway offers one of the best ways to experience them.
The scenic highway climbs toward the summit of Whiteface Mountain, one of New York’s highest peaks. Along the way, you’ll get incredible views of Lake Placid and the Adirondack High Peaks. Near the top, the short Alpine Nature Trail offers even more impressive views.
Because of the elevation, fall colors can arrive earlier here than in many lower-elevation areas of New England.
Best time for fall colors: Late September to early October
Planning tip: The highway typically closes for the winter season in mid-October, so check operating dates before making the trip.
Southern Fall Foliage Road Trips
Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s ultimate scenic drives, and fall may be the best time to experience it.
The Parkway follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with hundreds of overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain views along the way.
Some standout fall foliage stops include Graveyard Fields, Rough Ridge, and Waterrock Knob. One of the best things about the Blue Ridge Parkway is the gradual change in elevation. As you travel, you can see different stages of fall color depending on how high you are.
Best time for fall colors: Late September through early November, depending on location and elevation.
Newfound Gap Road – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With more than 100 species of native trees, Great Smoky Mountains National Park puts on one of the most diverse fall color displays in the country. Newfound Gap Road is one of the best scenic drives for experiencing it.
The 33-mile route connects Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina, climbing from about 1,500 feet to more than 5,000 feet at Newfound Gap. That change in elevation means you can see several stages of fall color during one drive.
Be sure to stop at Newfound Gap Overlook, Clingmans Dome Road, and Oconaluftee Valley Overlook.
Best time for fall colors: Early October at higher elevations and late October into early November at lower elevations
Pro Tip: Bring digital binoculars to see the tops of mountains, lakes far below and get great pictures.
Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway – Georgia
You don’t have to head north for beautiful fall foliage. The mountains of northern Georgia offer a colorful autumn road trip without the colder temperatures found farther north.
The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the Chattahoochee River.
Make time for Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, where you’ll find sweeping views over the surrounding mountains. You can also stop in Helen, a charming mountain town with Bavarian-inspired architecture, or explore nearby Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. For even more scenery, continue toward Tallulah Gorge State Park.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-October to early November
DeSoto Falls – Alabama
DeSoto Falls is one of Alabama’s prettiest waterfalls, and autumn adds another layer of beauty to the landscape. Just drive on the scenic road through Desoto State Park to the visitor center and follow the short trail to the overlook.
The 104-foot waterfall drops into a dramatic canyon surrounded by trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Stop at A.A. Miller Dam, which forms the upper portion of the falls, before continuing down to the main waterfall area. This area looks especially beautiful surrounded by fall foliage with vibrant colors reflecting in the water.
Best time for fall colors: Early October to mid-November
Midwest Fall Road Trips
Lake of the Ozarks Scenic Byway – Missouri
Missouri may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about fall foliage, but the Lake of the Ozarks region delivers some beautiful autumn scenery.
The Lake of the Ozarks Scenic Byway covers approximately 78 miles and combines colorful forests with lake views, small towns, parks, and interesting roadside stops.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the highlights, particularly when the colorful trees surround the park’s historic castle ruins. Other worthwhile stops include Bridal Cave, Bagnell Dam, and Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-October
Read Next: Hit the Road Smart: Essential Road Trip Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Journey
Talimena National Scenic Byway – Oklahoma and Arkansas
The Talimena National Scenic Byway is one of the best fall foliage drives in the South.
The 54-mile route runs from Talihina, Oklahoma, to Mena, Arkansas, through the Ouachita National Forest. Scenic overlooks along the route provide sweeping views of mountains covered in fall colors.
Two worthwhile stops are Talimena State Park and Queen Wilhelmina State Park.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-October to early November
Southwest Fall Road Trips
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway – New Mexico
Fall foliage might not be the first thing you associate with New Mexico, but the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway will change your mind.
Around Taos, golden aspens light up the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, creating a spectacular contrast with the high-desert landscape. The approximately 85-mile loop circles Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest mountain, and connects Taos, Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.
Some of the best stops include Taos Ski Valley, Eagle Nest Lake, and the town of Taos. The route is also a great combination of scenery, outdoor recreation, art, history, and Southwestern culture.
Best time for fall colors: Early to mid-October
Pro Tip: Always bring water and snacks with you. We always carry this water jug with us. The spigot makes it easy to get water without spilling it everywhere.
Million-Dollar Highway – Colorado
The Million-Dollar Highway is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in Colorado, and fall adds another reason to make the trip.
The approximately 20-mile stretch of U.S. 550 between Ouray and Silverton winds through the San Juan Mountains, climbing over Red Mountain Pass. In autumn, golden aspens cover the mountainsides, creating an incredible contrast against the rugged peaks.
Stops worth making include Ouray, Red Mountain Pass, and Silverton, a historic mining town. The road has steep drop-offs and sections without guardrails, so drivers should take their time and pay attention.
Best time for fall colors: Late September to early October
Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway – Arizona
Oak Creek Canyon is one of my favorite places to see fall colors in the Southwest because it feels like an oasis tucked into Arizona’s red-rock country.
The canyon’s maples, sycamores, and oaks turn brilliant colors against the surrounding red cliffs. Take your time exploring Slide Rock State Park, West Fork, and Flagstaff, and save some time for a meal in Sedona.
Fall is an especially beautiful time to visit because the changing leaves create such a dramatic contrast with the red rocks.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-to-late October
Utah Fall Color Loop
Utah’s Fall Color Loop combines several scenic byways into one spectacular autumn road trip.
The route includes Utah’s Patchwork Parkway, Markagunt High Plateau, and Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway, creating an incredible mix of golden aspens, canyon maples, red rock landscapes, and high-elevation scenery.
The drive can be completed in a couple of hours, but you’ll want much longer if you plan to stop for hiking, photography, scenic overlooks, or exploring nearby communities.
Best time for fall colors: Late September to mid-October
Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive – Nevada
Nevada isn’t usually the first place people think about when discussing fall foliage, but the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive in the Ruby Mountains is proof that the Silver State has some beautiful autumn surprises.
The drive climbs through the Ruby Mountains, where colorful foliage contrasts with rugged mountain peaks. Harrison Pass is a highlight for its amazing colors.
For an even bigger adventure, consider continuing toward Jarbidge on the unpaved road, if road conditions allow. The surrounding high country near Copper Basin can be spectacular when autumn colors are at their peak.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-September to mid-October
Pro Tip: Always carry a paper map or download an offline map when road tripping. You never know when you’ll lose signal.
West Coast Fall Foliage Drives
Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway – California
California’s Eastern Sierra is one of the best places on the West Coast to chase fall foliage. The route combines rugged mountain scenery with brilliant golden aspens, high-desert landscapes, alpine lakes, and dramatic peaks.
Two must-see stops are June Lake Loop and Convict Lake, where colorful trees are reflected in the water. The route also provides access to some of the Eastern Sierra’s best outdoor adventures.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-September to early November
Historic Columbia River Highway – Oregon
The Historic Columbia River Highway is beautiful at any time of year, but autumn brings a special kind of magic to the Columbia River Gorge. Forests along the gorge turn shades of red, orange, and gold while waterfalls tumble down the surrounding cliffs.
Make time for Multnomah Falls and Horsetail Falls and stop at the scenic viewpoints along the route for panoramic views of the Columbia River.
Best time for fall colors: Mid-October to early November
Cascade Loop Scenic Highway – Washington
Washington’s Cascade Loop is an excellent choice if you want a fall road trip that combines mountain scenery, colorful forests, lakes, and charming towns.
One of the highlights is Leavenworth, the Bavarian-inspired mountain town that becomes especially beautiful in autumn. The route also includes Lake Chelan, the Wenatchee River, Stevens Pass, Tumwater Canyon, and the North Cascades Highway.
For fall foliage, Sky Valley, Stevens Pass, and Tumwater Canyon are particularly beautiful.
Best time for fall colors: Early to mid-October
Tips for Planning a Fall Foliage Road Trip
Fall road trips require a little more planning than a typical scenic drive because peak foliage doesn’t happen on the same date every year.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Check Fall Foliage Reports
Peak color can vary by several weeks depending on weather and elevation. Check local foliage reports before leaving home and stay flexible if possible.
Follow the Elevation
Higher elevations generally change color before lower elevations. This can work in your favor if you’re planning a longer road trip.
Book Early
Fall is peak travel season in many mountain and New England destinations. Hotels, cabins, and popular campgrounds can be filled quickly.
Allow Extra Time
Don’t plan your route based only on driving time. Fall scenery is meant to be enjoyed slowly. Leave room for scenic overlooks, short hikes, roadside stops, and the occasional “wait, I need a picture of THAT” moment.
Check Road Conditions
Mountain roads can experience early snow, ice, construction, or seasonal closures. Check current conditions before heading out, especially on high-elevation routes.
Consider a Weekday Trip
Popular fall foliage drives can become extremely crowded on weekends. Traveling during the week can mean fewer cars and a much more relaxed experience.
Final Thoughts
When most people think about fall foliage, their minds immediately go to New England. And yes, New England is spectacular in autumn.
But it’s certainly not the only place to see colorful leaves. From the mountains of Georgia and North Carolina to the high country of New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and California, fall colors can be found in surprising places all across the United States. National Forests are also great places to see fall colors.
Read More: Magical U.S. National Forests You Need to Experience
The best part is that you don’t necessarily need to plan a week-long vacation. Sometimes all it takes is a scenic highway, a tank of gas, a good playlist, and a little flexibility with your timing.
So, pick a direction, watch the foliage reports, and hit the road. Fall is one of the best seasons in the country for a scenic road trip and there are plenty of beautiful places waiting beyond the usual New England routes. If you’re looking for road trip ideas or want to know about stops for food, gas, etc. for your planned trip, check out roadtrippers.com. They have lots of great information to help you plan a trip. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5.
We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.