Today, if you’re like me, you  can feel it in the air… fall is finally here! It’s Fall Leaf Peeping near and far and it’s time for you to start planning.

The temperatures are cooling, the air feels crisp, and those first hints of gold, crimson, and fiery orange are starting to paint the treetops. For me, autumn isn’t just a season—it’s a vibe. It’s that cozy sweater, the first sip of hot cider, the sound of leaves crunching under your boots… and yes, it’s prime time for one of my favorite seasonal adventures: fall leaf peeping near and far!

Brandywine falls in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Why We Love Autumn
Now, sure, we all love the brilliant colors, but fall brings so much more:
-That extra excuse for weekend getaways
-Football games, pumpkin patches, and cozy cabins
-And, let’s not forget the festivals – apple cider, pumpkin spice everything, and those little local treasures you can’t find any other time of year

And here’s a little fall trivia for you: Did you know that the brightest, most vibrant leaf colors happen when we have warm sunny days and cool crisp nights? That’s nature working double-time for our Instagram feeds!

Where to Leaf Peep + Do More
Now, if you’re looking for the perfect places to soak in the colors and enjoy a little extra fun along the way, I’ve got several destinations you need on your radar this fall.

Shenandoah County, Virginia
Let’s start with Shenandoah County, where you can go from mild to wild:

• Meems Bottom Covered Bridge – Built in the 1890s, this 204-foot charmer is Virginia’s longest covered bridge still open to traffic. Snap a photo here—it’s picture-perfect in fall.
• Shenvalee Golf Resort – Play 18 holes while surrounded by mountain views and rolling waves of color.
• Murray’s Fly Shop – Learn fly fishing from the experts, or book a guided tour on Shenandoah’s peaceful waterways.
• Woodstock Tower – Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, climb to the top and you’ll see all seven bends of the Shenandoah River, with views stretching across the valley.”

Branson, Missouri
Next up, Branson—a small town with big fall energy.

• Start at Table Rock Lake: 750 miles of shoreline with fiery reflections of autumn leaves—and yes, the water stays warm enough for a swim!
• Branson’s Fall Fest: Scavenger hunts, apple cider demos, shopping, and Instagram-ready selfie spots.
• Don’t miss Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival (Sept. 12–Oct. 26): Think Hallmark movie set meets theme park, complete with pumpkin carving, spiced treats, and tens of thousands of pumpkins!”

Gatlinburg & The Smokies, Tennessee
Heading south to the Smoky Mountains—a fall classic. Peak colors hit mid-October to early November, and you’ve got options:

• Drive Kuwohi Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for sweeping vistas.
• Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for historic cabins and quiet forests.
• Hike to Alum Cave or Charlie’s Bunion for jaw-dropping views.
• And if you love festivals, you’ll want to check out Dollywood’s Harvest Festival (Sept. 12–Oct. 27) and Anakeesta’s Bear-Varian Fall Festival—fall fun meets mountain magic.”

Blairsville, Georgia
Closer to home, Blairsville is the North Georgia gem you’ve been missing.

• Hike up Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, for 360-degree views across four states.
• Wander through Vogel State Park for waterfall trails and serene lake reflections.
• Downtown Blairsville brings small-town charm with shops, wineries, craft beer, and chocolate shops circling a historic courthouse.
• Time your visit with the Sorghum in the Mountains Festival (Oct. 11–12 & 18–19) for local flavors, music, and handmade crafts.”

Maine Magic
Want to head north? Maine knows how to celebrate fall:

• Pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and cider donuts at Treworgy Family Orchards.
• Celebrate local food and art at the Freeport Fall Festival (Oct. 3–5, 2025).
• Explore Pineland Farms with hiking trails, corn mazes, and family-friendly farm fun.

If you love fall as much as I do, then grab your pumpkin latte, because we’re chasing colors across America in this show.

We’re heading a little farther from home — to big skies, golden leaves, hidden gems, and cozy getaways. From Wyoming’s sweeping mountain drives to Arizona’s wine country and a grand escape in New York’s Hudson Valley, these are destinations where autumn shows off in all its glory. So stay with me.

 Beech Mountain, North Carolina
And finally, Beech Mountain—Eastern America’s highest town at 5,506 feet.

• Beech gets color first in the Southeast, and the views stretch forever.
• Hike, bike, fish, kayak, and birdwatch—or hit the quirky Woolly Worm Festival for small-town fun.
• Plenty of budget-friendly cabins, chalets, and lodges make it an easy weekend escape.”

Wyoming – Wild Colors, Wide-Open Adventures
Wyoming — where the landscapes stretch for miles, the colors are bold, and the pace is slow enough to truly savor the season.

Start with a scenic drive — Wyoming is made for them:

• Bighorn Scenic Byway — climb from canyon floor to alpine summit, where golden aspens frame rugged limestone cliffs.
• Snowy Range Scenic Byway — over 10,000 feet above sea level, this short but stunning route offers alpine lakes and jaw-dropping early-season colors.
• Chief Joseph Scenic Byway — connecting Cody to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, this drive delivers dramatic switchbacks and sweeping valleys.
• And the Flaming Gorge-Green River Basin Byway — where fiery cottonwoods contrast against deep red-rock canyons.

When you’re ready for a small-town escape, Wyoming’s fall festivals are pure magic:

• Sheridan’s Harvest Fest — think hayrides, live music, and artisan booths.
• Lander’s Apple Fest — where cider, orchard tours, and apple treats take center stage.
• And all across the state, from Riverton to Powell, you’ll find pumpkin patches, rodeos, and cozy farmers markets.

Add in Indigenous art markets on the Wind River Reservation, storytelling festivals, and exhibits at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and you’ve got a season packed with beauty, history, and culture. Wyoming invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and savor autumn in the wide open.

Arizona – Golden Peaks, Wine Country, and Starry Skies

From Wyoming, we head south to a surprising fall favorite — Arizona! Yes, Arizona. And no, it’s not all desert. Let’s start in Flagstaff, a leaf-peeper’s paradise in Northern Arizona.

Hike among golden aspens in the Coconino National Forest or take the gondola at Arizona Snowbowl for breathtaking treetop views. And when night falls? Look up! Flagstaff is the world’s first International Dark Sky City— where stargazing at the Lowell Observatory or the Marley Discovery Center will leave you in awe.

For campers, Lockett Meadow Campground is the perfect base for fall hikes, while Bonito Campground offers striking views of amber-leaved trees set against ancient lava flows at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.”

Cottonwood – Arizona’s Fall Wine Escape

Just a short drive from Flagstaff, Cottonwood is Arizona’s hidden fall gem — and yes, it’s also wine country!

Set in the Verde Valley Wine Region, Cottonwood offers vibrant foliage, charming streets, and ten local wine-tasting rooms right along Old Town Cottonwood. Imagine strolling boutique-lined streets, pumpkin latte in hand, before heading to the brand-new Merkin Vineyard Hilltop Winery & Trattoria, where you can sip award-winning wines overlooking colorful vineyards and the Verde Valley.

If you love the outdoors, hike the Jail Trail along the Verde River or take the adventurous Water to Wine Tour — where kayaking downriver leads you straight to a glass of wine at Alcantara Winery in nearby Camp Verde.

For cozy fall stays, book a cabin inside Dead Horse Ranch State Park or settle into the chic Tavern Hotel on Main Street — just steps from tasting rooms and incredible dining. Cottonwood truly delivers that “small-town autumn aesthetic” we all crave.”

Prescott – Pines, Peaks, and Perfect Trails
Next up, Prescott, where the Prescott National Forest transforms into a wonderland of amber leaves and crisp mountain air. With over 400 miles of hiking trails, you’ll have endless options for exploring — from lakeside strolls to challenging backcountry climbs.

Try the Granite Basin Trail for stunning reflections of fall colors across Basin Lake or, for a rush of adrenaline, tackle the Bean Peaks Mountain Biking Trail — a 9.2-mile gravity flow ride with plenty of thrills for every level.

Back in downtown Prescott, soak up the vibrant fall energy at the city’s iconic Granite Courthouse Plaza, framed by fiery red and gold trees, then wander Whiskey Row for local eats, boutique shopping, and live music. And don’t miss kayaking on Watson Lake, where the golden foliage pops against its one-of-a-kind granite boulders.”

Hudson Valley, New York – Mohonk Mountain House Escape
Finally, we’re heading east to the Hudson Valley and the breathtaking Mohonk Mountain House — just 90 miles north of New York City but a world away from the noise. This iconic 1869 Victorian castle resort sits atop a half-mile-long glacial lake and is surrounded by 40,000 acres of pristine forests — which, in the fall, explode into a masterpiece of color.

Guests can hike or bike along 85 miles of trails, join yoga and meditation sessions, or take part in guided nature walks. And for thrill-seekers, Mohonk’s new Via Ferrata — a climbing adventure course along the Shawangunk Mountains — gives you a front-row seat to the sweeping foliage views.

Back at the resort, enjoy all-inclusive, farm-to-table dining, cozy evenings by the fire, and an atmosphere that blends luxury with pure autumn magic. It’s no wonder the Hudson Valley is one of America’s ultimate fall escapes.

From Wyoming’s alpine drives to Arizona’s hidden wine country, and all the way to the Hudson Valley’s grandest getaway, autumn is calling — and it’s saying, pack your bags!

Whether you’re sipping wine under golden leaves, hiking past alpine lakes, or stargazing in the desert, these destinations deliver fall in full color.

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to hit the road… and maybe pour a little Merkin Vineyard red along the way.

We’re going beyond the usual drives and photo ops to explore destinations where fall foliage meets history, culture, adventure, and culinary magic. Whether you’re hiking, sipping, cruising, or ziplining, I’ve got the perfect spots for you.

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania – Color Meets Culture
Let’s start in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, recently recognized by USA Today readers as one of the top two fall foliage destinations in the country. And after seeing it for myself, I can confirm — this region is a stunner.

First, there’s Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled among fiery reds, golds, and oranges, it’s as much an autumn art piece as it is an architectural marvel.

Then head to Fort Ligonier Days — a lively annual festival commemorating a key French & Indian War battle, complete with reenactments, music, food, and family fun.

And for outdoor lovers, the Great Allegheny Passage ranks as one of America’s best bike trails, weaving through mountain valleys, riversides, and canopies of blazing fall color. Add hiking and watersports to the mix, and you’ve got one of the most complete fall getaways in the Northeast.

McCall, Idaho – Adventure in Every Shade
From Pennsylvania, we head west to McCall, Idaho — where the air is crisp, the colors are bold, and the outdoor options are endless.

Hike along the Payette Lake Peninsula Trail, ATV through the Louis Lake Trail, or take it up a notch — literally — by ziplining over 600 acres of vibrant forest with Zip McCall.

When it’s time to relax, the WorldMark by Wyndham McCall offers cozy two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, fireplaces, and a home-away-from-home vibe. Nestled between Payette and Little Payette Lakes and just minutes from Ponderosa State Park, it’s the perfect base for soaking in Idaho’s fall magic.

New Haven, Connecticut – Ivy League Views & Autumn Hues
Now let’s head back east to New Haven, Connecticut — home to Yale University, historic architecture, and yes… some of the best pizza in the nation.

With over 2,000 acres of green space, this college town transforms into a canopy of color in the fall. East Rock Parkis a must — with hiking and biking trails for all levels and rock stairs leading to sweeping summit views that will leave you breathless in more ways than one.

Stay at The Study at Yale — a boutique hotel that combines sophisticated charm with literary, artistic, and musical touches, right in the heart of New Haven’s culture scene.”

Reno-Tahoe – Big Colors in the Biggest Little City
If you’re craving mountain vistas and lakeside magic, head west to Reno-Tahoe — where fall brings crisp air, fiery leaves, and fewer crowds.

Stroll the vibrant Reno Riverwalk, or explore the oasis-like trails of Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. For an unforgettable view, drive to North Lake Tahoe for kayaking in crystal-clear waters or hike the Monkey Rock Trail for panoramas of gold-dusted peaks and turquoise waters below.

After all that adventure, kick back at Great Basin Brewing Co. — Nevada’s oldest brewery — and pair a craft beer with their famous 50/50 Burger.

Stay at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa for modern luxury and unbeatable views of the Truckee River framed by fall foliage.

Costsaver’s New England Tour – A Road Trip Dream
If you want to see all of New England’s fall magic without doing the planning, check out Costsaver’s Fall Colors of New England Tour — a 10-day road trip through Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Highlights include:

• Walking Boston’s historic Freedom Trail
• Cruising Hyannis Harbor
• Exploring Vermont’s Green Mountains and the iconic Kancamagus Highway
• Touring Plymouth Patuxet Museums and the Mayflower II
• Tasting your way through Putney Mountain Winery and Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

From Kennebunkport’s charming docks to Silver Cascade Falls’ rushing waters, this tour is the ultimate way to hit all the best spots in one go.”

Acadia National Park, Maine – Where Foliage Meets the Sea
I mentioned Maine earlier, but I can’t skip Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island — one of the most dramatic fall landscapes in the U.S.

Here, fiery forests meet rugged coastlines and glacier-carved lakes. Stay at Salt Cottages, just minutes from Acadia’s Hulls Cove entrance, where maritime-inspired cottages and family-friendly amenities — think pools, fire pits, and retro arcade rooms — make it a perfect autumn escape.

Cruising into Color – Fall Foliage by Water
Okay, here’s one you may not have thought of: fall foliage cruises.

Holland America’s Zuiderdam sails the 7-Day Canada & New England: UNESCO Sites & Québecois Nights, stopping at Portland, Québec City, and Boston — with views of fiery maple and oak forests right from your balcony.

And for something truly unique, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offers an eight-day river cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Imagine sipping wine on deck as onboard naturalists guide you past waterfalls, basalt cliffs, and golden forests. This one’s for those who want luxury, learning, and unforgettable scenery all in one trip.

From Pennsylvania’s rolling hills to Idaho’s wild trails, from coastal Maine to cruising New England’s waterways, fall offers so many ways to explore — and so many shades of beauty to chase.

Whether you’re hiking, biking, sipping, or sailing, these destinations bring you right to the heart of autumn’s magic.

So, whether you want a quiet stroll, a scenic drive, a weekend of fall festivals, or an action-packed adventure, these destinations bring you all the colors and all the cozy feels this season.

Get your sweaters ready, grab your camera, and let’s go find the fall magic together.
One of my favorite ways to soak in autumn’s beauty is from the water. There’s something about seeing those colorful treetops reflected in a still, glassy lake that just… slows time down.

At Fort Mountain State Park, there’s a peaceful mountain lake and a scenic loop trail that are perfect for those early morning strolls. If paddling is more your style, Don Carter State Park, tucked along the northern edge of Lake Lanier, offers quiet coves where you can glide beneath a canopy of fall color.

And for my cozy travelers — listen up — Tugaloo State Park has stunning new lakeside cabins perched right on Lake Hartwell. Imagine waking up, stepping onto your deck, and sipping your morning coffee as a sea of color surrounds you. Now that’s what I call the perfect fall morning.”

Georgia’s State Parks make it easy to turn a day trip into a full-on getaway. There are so many options — from rustic campsites to ‘glamping’ yurts to well-appointed cottages.

Cloudland Canyon State Park just added two brand-new cabins, including a spacious three-bedroom option that’s fully ADA-accessible. Chattahoochee Bend State Park near Newnan has new cabins too, and if you’re an RVer, you’ll love the newly renovated campground at Indian Springs State Park with full hookups for your home on wheels.

Just a heads-up, though — fall is one of the most popular times of year, so book early, even up to a year in advance! You can reserve your stay right now at GaStateParks.org or by calling 1-800-864-7275.

EXPERIENCE FALL WITH FEWER CROWDS

Now, if you’re like me and you enjoy a little peace and quiet while leaf-peeping, here’s a tip: skip the busiest parks and head to a few hidden gems instead.

Victoria Bryant, Fort Mountain, and James H. Sloppy” Floyd State Park are all perfect for soaking in the season without the crowds. At James H. Floyd, you can wander peaceful forest trails surrounded by rolling hills — and here’s something I love — they now have a GRIT Freedom Chair, making those rugged paths more accessible for everyone!

ACCESSIBLE & INCLUSIVE ADVENTURES

Speaking of accessibility, Georgia’s State Parks are doing an incredible job of making the outdoors more inclusive. From ADA-accessible cottages and trails to fishing docks and kayak launches, there are more ways than ever for everyone to enjoy nature.

And here’s something really cool — three state parks now offer EnChroma colorblind glasses so visitors with red-green color blindness can see the full brilliance of fall! You can try these at Cloudland Canyon, Sweetwater Creek, and Skidaway Island State Parks. Be sure to reserve them before your visit — trust me, it’ll make those fall colors pop!

Now, the big question: when’s the best time to see peak color?  Well, late October through early November is usually the sweet spot, but Georgia State Parks makes it easy to plan your trip with their Leaf Watch 2025 online guide.

Just head to GaStateParks.org/LeafWatch for weekly foliage reports, recommended hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and even fall events. It’s like having your own personal guide to the best of autumn in Georgia!”

People enjoy the fall colors along the greenway in Clarksville.
©Journal Communications/Nathan Lambrecht

Top Tips for Planning the Perfect Fall Leaf-Peeping Trip

1. Timing Is Everything

• Peak color varies by region and elevation, so research the area you’re visiting before you book.
• General timing guide:
  • Late September: Rockies, New England’s high peaks, Montana, Wyoming
  • Early to Mid-October: New England lowlands, Great Smoky Mountains, Upper Midwest
  • Late October – Early November: Southeast, Southwest deserts, and coastal regions
• Use state “leaf trackers” like GaStateParks.org/LeafWatch or the Smoky Mountains Foliage Map to time your trip perfectly.

2. Pick Destinations That Offer More Than Just Leaves

• Choose areas where you can combine foliage with experiences — hikes, food festivals, wine trails, scenic byways, or historic towns.
• Examples:
  • Shenandoah County, VA – Covered bridges + golf + fly-fishing
  • Hudson Valley, NY – Farm markets + hiking + iconic Mohonk Mountain House
  • Branson, MO – Lake views + Fall Fest + Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival

3. Book Lodging Early — And Look Beyond Hotels

• Peak season = limited availability, especially weekends. Book cabins, cottages, yurts, and boutique inns as early as possible — some destinations fill a year in advance.
• Look for options that immerse you in the foliage:
  • Cabins in Georgia’s State Parks
  • Lake-view lodges in Idaho’s McCall
  • Vineyard stays in Cottonwood, AZ

4. Avoid the Crowds

• Visit mid-week or explore lesser-known parks and byways.
• Popular spots like the Blue Ridge Parkway or Smokies get packed on peak weekends. Instead, try:
  • Victoria Bryant State Park, GA
  • Newfound Gap Road during early morning hours
  • Off-the-radar gems like Beech Mountain, NC

5. Layer Up & Be Weather Ready

• Fall weather can swing from sunny 70s to frosty 30s — especially at elevation.
• Pack:
  • Waterproof boots for damp trails
  • A warm layer for chilly mornings
  • A thermos for hot cider or cocoa

6. Explore Scenic Byways

• Some of the best color shows are from the road. Plan your route around scenic drives:
  • Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, WY – Sweeping mountain vistas
  • Kancamagus Highway, NH – New England’s most photographed drive
  • Foothills Parkway, TN – Smokies views without the gridlock

7. Build in Extra Time

• Fall traffic slows down everything — drives, hikes, restaurant waits.
• Start your day early, plan fewer stops, and savor quality over quantity.

8. Don’t Forget the Festivals

• Fall brings food, wine, and cultural celebrations everywhere:
  • Fort Ligonier Days, PA – History + harvest fun
  • Bear-Varian Festival, Gatlinburg – Bavarian beer + mountain views
  • Sorghum Festival, Blairsville, GA – Sweet syrup + small-town charm

9. Pack the Right Gear

• Camera or smartphone for capturing vivid color
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife
• Reusable water bottle for hikes
• Portable chargers — peak foliage season means lots of photo-taking!

10. Be Flexible & Enjoy the Moment

• Mother Nature calls the shots — sometimes peak comes early, late, or lasts just a few days.
• Instead of chasing perfection, focus on experiences:
  • A quiet morning paddle on a lake
  • A scenic drive with unexpected detours
  • A cozy night by the fire after a long hike

“So whether you’re hiking, paddling, or sipping coffee on a cabin porch, Georgia’s State Parks are ready to show off their very best colors this fall. Pack your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to leaf-peep like a pro.