Places to View the Fall Foliage

1. Stowe, Vermont

This is one of the most highly regarded and recommended places. From September to mid-October is a great time to experience fall colors like never before. According to The Green Mountain Inn, Stowe was settled in the 18th century, but gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a summer and winter resort. Its reputation for fall foliage tourism grew thanks to its picturesque scenery, covered bridges, and the rise of road trips in the mid-20th century. Stowe’s vibrant foliage and classic New England vibe make it a favorite for visitors. Stowe is often considered THE New England fall destination, known for its brightly colored sugar maples in shades of reds, oranges, and yellows. Its small-town charm, covered bridges, and scenic roads draw visitors from all over. If you are looking to have an action-packed weekend (or week), take a drive along Route 100, one of the most scenic routes in Vermont, or ride the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort for a bird’s-eye view of the fall colors. Great hiking can be experienced on trails up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, while the Stowe Recreation Path offers an easy, flat route for biking or walking. There are also local cider mills, breweries, and cheese shops for a taste of Vermont’s fall flavors. For a cultural experience, there are art galleries and museums in town or explore nearby Smugglers’ Notch for a scenic adventure.

2. Amicalola Falls State Park (Georgia)

This place is a fairly unknown spot for great "leaf peeping". Peak foliage time is during late October to early November. According to Amicalola Falls Lodge, the park’s name comes from the Cherokee word for “tumbling waters,” and the falls have been a point of natural interest for centuries. In 1911, Amicalola Falls was designated a protected area, and the state park was officially created in 1940. It quickly became a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, especially as it is located at the southern end of the Appalachian Trail. Home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, Amicalola Falls State Park offers a breathtaking fall landscape, with gold leafed hickories, oaks, and maples that surround the park.  The 729-foot Amicalola Falls is the park’s highlight, and visitors can hike to the top for sweeping views of the fall foliage. For a longer trek, the challenging 8.5-mile trail to Springer Mountain, the starting point of the Appalachian Trail, offers a rewarding fall hiking experience. There’s also zip-lining, archery, and camping available. There is also a nearby Dahlonega, famous for its gold rush history and fall festivals. The area also has several vineyards where visitors can enjoy wine tastings while taking in the autumn scenery.

3. Plum Orchard Lake (West Virginia)

This place has the most peaceful scenery, perfect for anyone looking for a quiet and beautiful place to be. Mid-October is a great time to enjoy this beautiful scenery in West Virginia. Plum Orchard Lake was created in the 1960s as part of a project to manage flood control and offer recreational opportunities. Long recognized by outdoor lovers nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Plum Orchard Lake has gained more popularity in recent years. The calm waters of Plum Orchard Lake are perfect for kayaking or canoeing, offering stunning reflections of the fall colors. Fishing is also popular here, with opportunities to catch bass, catfish, and bluegill. Several hiking trails around the lake provide close-up views of the changing leaves. Nearby, explore the New River Gorge for more hiking and dramatic views of the river cutting through the vibrant fall landscape. Visit Fayetteville for small-town charm, local cafes, and the historic New River Gorge Bridge. 

4. Catskill Mountains(New York)

The next place is probably one you have heard of before. From early to mid-October, the Catskills Mountains in New York are a close escape for New York City residents from Urban life. The area’s popularity grew with the rise of railroads, and by the early 20th century, it had become a cultural hub for artists, musicians, and writers. The Catskills have also been immortalized in American art and literature, adding to their allure. The Catskill Scenic Byway provides one of the best ways to experience the area’s fall beauty by car. For outdoor adventurers, hiking trails like Overlook Mountain and Kaaterskill Falls offer great vantage points of the foliage. For a slower pace, take a ride on the Catskill Mountain Railroad’s fall foliage train. Furthermore, the area is known for its charming small towns like Woodstock and Phoenicia, where visitors can explore local galleries, restaurants, and antique shops. 

5. Aspen, Colorado

A final destination is Aspen, Colorado. Take mid-September to early-October off and embark on a new adventure. Originally founded as a silver mining town in the late 1800s, Aspen experienced an economic decline after the silver market crash. It rebounded in the mid-20th century, transforming into a luxury ski destination. Aspen’s fall foliage, particularly its golden aspen trees, has become a major draw for visitors, especially with the development of scenic drives and hiking trails. It’s also a luxurious mountain town that draws outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers. Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in North America, is the perfect place to experience Aspen’s fall beauty. Visitors can hike the scenic Maroon Lake Loop or enjoy a picnic by the shimmering lake. The nearby Independence Pass drive is also a fantastic way to see the foliage as it winds through the mountains. Aspen also offers a variety of upscale dining, art galleries, and boutique shopping. Outdoor enthusiasts can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, or even take a hot air balloon ride to experience the foliage from above.

These five destinations offer some of the best fall foliage experiences in the US. Whether you are looking for a peaceful lake, cascading waterfalls, or towering mountains. Each spot provides the perfect setting to enjoy the colors of autumn.