25 Fall Foliage Road Trips to Try This Year
Fall foliage road trips are some of the most unforgettable experiences anyone can have and it just so happens that the US is full of amazing stops throughout most of it’s states where you can see it every single year. This article covers 25 of the most popular all throughout and on top of that provides details on when to go, what to see and even sample itineraries to try out!
1. Blue Ridge Parkway, VA–NC
When to go: Late September to mid-October
Why it’s great: The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic fall drives in the U.S., winding through the Appalachian Highlands with more than 200 scenic overlooks. During autumn, the rolling mountains are blanketed in deep reds, golden yellows, and fiery oranges. The route offers a peaceful, slow-paced drive perfect for photography, hiking, and enjoying hidden waterfalls and historic homesteads along the way.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Roanoke, VA
- Day 2: Drive to Blowing Rock, NC, stopping at Mabry Mill and Peaks of Otter
- Day 3: Explore Linville Falls and Grandfather Mountain
- Day 4: Continue to Asheville, NC
- Day 5: Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center and nearby hikes like Craggy Gardens
2. New England Grand Loop
When to go: Mid-September to mid-October
Why it’s great: A New England road trip is quite literally the gold standard (pun intended) for fall foliage, and this grand loop offers the best of Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire. What makes it special is the diversity, you’ll encounter covered bridges, winding country roads, mountain passes, and charming towns bursting with autumn color. There’s a unique blend of history, seasonal festivals, and apple orchards that capture the full essence of fall.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Begin in Boston, MA
- Day 2: Drive the Mohawk Trail and stay in Northampton
- Day 3: Head north through Southern Vermont and overnight in Woodstock
- Day 4: Visit the White Mountains in NH, drive Kancamagus Highway
- Day 5: Return via Portsmouth, NH and coastal New England towns
3. Kancamagus Highway, NH
When to go: Late September to early October
Why it’s great: This short but unforgettable drive slices through the famous New Hampshire White Mountains National Forest area offering a raw and unspoiled look at autumn color. Towering hardwood forests explode in color, and there are dozens of spots to pull over for scenic views, waterfalls, and short hikes. Because it’s a no-frills byway with no gas stations or towns along the way, it feels like a true immersion into the wild side of fall. In fact this is one of the top places to witness New Hampshire fall foliage in all of New England.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Lincoln, NH
- Day 2: Drive the full highway, stopping at Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge
- Day 3: Explore Conway and hike to Diana’s Baths
- Day 4: Visit Franconia Notch State Park
- Day 5: Return to Lincoln for fall festivals or a scenic gondola ride
4. Million Dollar Highway, CO
When to go: Late September to early October
Why it’s great: Winding through the San Juan Mountains at high altitude, the Million Dollar Highway is a dramatic road connects the towns of Silverton, Ouray, and Durango. In fall, the region’s vast aspen forests transform into golden cathedrals, often backdropped by snow-dusted peaks. The narrow, cliffside turns give adrenaline and awe in equal measure, making it one of the most breathtaking, and underrated fall foliage drives in the country and arguably a top place to consider for Colorado road trip ideas.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Durango
- Day 2: Drive to Silverton, stopping at Molas Pass
- Day 3: Explore Ouray and its hot springs
- Day 4: Visit Telluride via Dallas Divide
- Day 5: Return to Durango with scenic stops
5. Route 1 to Acadia National Park, ME
When to go: Late September to mid-October
Why it’s great: This coastal journey combines the dramatic seascapes of Maine’s rugged shoreline with bursts of autumn color from surrounding forests. As you drive toward Acadia National Park, you’ll pass through quaint fishing towns, historic harbors, and scenic lighthouses, all framed by the bold hues of fall. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy both ocean breezes and crisp mountain air in the same afternoon. This is easily a top area for seeing Maine fall foliage.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Portland, ME
- Day 2: Drive to Camden and hike Mount Battie
- Day 3: Continue to Bar Harbor and explore Acadia
- Day 4: Drive Park Loop Road and hike Jordan Pond Trail
- Day 5: Visit Cadillac Mountain for sunrise and head back south
6. Brockway Mountain Drive, MI
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: Perched above Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Brockway Mountain Drive offers panoramic views that stretch for miles in all directions. During fall, the surrounding forests light up in deep reds and yellows, contrasting against the brilliant blue of the lake. It’s one of the highest scenic drives between the Rockies and the Alleghenies, and the isolation gives it a truly wild and peaceful feel. If you’re looking or Michigan road trip ideas, this is a must add to your list!
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Copper Harbor
- Day 2: Drive Brockway Mountain Drive and watch sunset at the overlook
- Day 3: Explore Eagle Harbor and nearby waterfalls
- Day 4: Hike Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary
- Day 5: Return via M-26 with photo stops along the lake
7. Adirondack High Peaks, NY
When to go: Late September to early October
Why it’s great: The Adirondack region combines serene mountain lakes, towering peaks, and vibrant deciduous forests in one of the most dramatic fall landscapes in the East. A must do for anyone brainstorming stunning New York road trip ideas. You’ll see mirrored reflections of red and gold foliage in crystal-clear water, with quiet hiking trails leading to unforgettable views. The small towns in the area, like Lake Placid and Saranac Lake, add charm and local flavor to the experience.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Lake Placid
- Day 2: Drive through Keene Valley and hike Mount Jo
- Day 3: Visit Mirror Lake and Olympic sites
- Day 4: Take a scenic drive around Tupper Lake
- Day 5: Explore Saranac Lake before heading home
8. Finger Lakes, NY
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: Rolling hills, deep gorges, and a collection of long, narrow lakes make Finger Lakes one of New York’s most beautiful in the fall. Vineyards and farms line the roadsides, and the changing colors sweep over the hills like a quilt. You can combine foliage viewing with waterfall hikes and wine tastings, making it both scenic and relaxing.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Ithaca
- Day 2: Visit Taughannock Falls and drive along Cayuga Lake
- Day 3: Spend the day on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail
- Day 4: Hike Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
- Day 5: Take the scenic drive north to Geneva and visit a farm market
9. Great Smoky Mountains (Foothills Parkway), TN And NC
When to go: Mid to late October
Why it’s great: This region is known for its layered mountain views and heavy morning mist, hence the name “Smoky.” During fall, the hills burst with color, and the Foothills Parkway offers sweeping vistas without the traffic of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Wildlife sightings, crisp air, and peaceful backroads give this drive a sense of serenity and timelessness. When it comes to Tennessee road trip ideas, this is a top 3 area to explore.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Townsend, TN
- Day 2: Drive the Foothills Parkway and stop at Look Rock
- Day 3: Visit Cades Cove and walk to Abrams Falls
- Day 4: Hike Alum Cave Trail or take a tram to Ober Mountain
- Day 5: Explore Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, then head south into Cherokee, NC
10. Natchez Trace Parkway, TN And Mississippi
When to go: Mid-October to early November
Why it’s great: The Natchez Trace Parkway is a historic route stretching over 400 miles through peaceful woodlands and farmland. In fall, the road is surrounded by golden hickory, sweetgum, and oak trees. It’s a relaxed, low-traffic route ideal for a slow-paced road trip with a mix of history, nature, and Southern charm.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Nashville, TN
- Day 2: Drive to Tupelo, MS, stopping at the Meriwether Lewis Site
- Day 3: Explore local trails and Tupelo’s Elvis Presley Birthplace
- Day 4: Continue to Natchez with scenic stops at Cypress Swamp and Rocky Springs
- Day 5: Stroll the Natchez bluff and return via side roads
11. Dragon Eyes Loop, GA
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: This mountainous loop in northern Georgia is filled with sharp curves, misty ridgelines, and colorful hardwood forests that burst into vibrant oranges and reds during fall. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking a scenic yet adventurous Georgia road trip ideas. Along the way, you’ll find waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and small Appalachian towns with cozy cafés and craft shops.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Clayton, GA
- Day 2: Drive the Dragon Eyes Loop via Highway 197 and 76
- Day 3: Explore Tallulah Gorge and hike to the suspension bridge
- Day 4: Visit Black Rock Mountain State Park for panoramic views
- Day 5: Relax in Helen or hike the nearby Anna Ruby Falls
12. Utah Canyon Drives (Logan, Provo, and American Fork Canyons)
When to go: Mid to late October
Why it’s great: Utah may be known for its red rocks, but its canyons turn brilliant yellow and orange in the fall. Aspen groves light up the landscape against sandstone cliffs and pine forests. These lesser-traveled canyons offer solitude, color, and a dramatic contrast between desert and alpine terrain, all in one loop. On top of this, I have a post on Utah fall foliage I recommend checking out for more spots to explore across this state for the autumn colors.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Salt Lake City
- Day 2: Drive American Fork Canyon and stop at Tibble Fork Reservoir
- Day 3: Explore Provo Canyon and hike to Bridal Veil Falls
- Day 4: Drive Logan Canyon Scenic Byway to Bear Lake
- Day 5: Return via Mirror Lake Scenic Byway for high-elevation color
13. Yellowstone National Park, WY–MT
When to go: Mid-September
Why it’s great: Fall in Yellowstone National Park offers a different kind of beauty. The golden grasses and turning trees frame steaming geysers, and the wildlife is active, elk are bugling, bears are foraging, and bison roam the roadsides. With thinner crowds and brisk weather, it’s one of the most peaceful times to see this iconic park.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in West Yellowstone
- Day 2: Visit Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Fountain Paint Pots
- Day 3: Explore the Hayden Valley and Yellowstone Lake
- Day 4: Drive Lamar Valley for wildlife and fall scenery
- Day 5: Exit via Mammoth Hot Springs and head toward Gardiner, MT
14. Green Mountains Vermont
When to go: Late September to mid-October
Why it’s great: Vermont’s Green Mountains are home to some of the most iconic fall foliage in the country. Sugar maples blaze with red and orange, and the roads wind through small towns, farms, and forests with postcard-worthy scenes at every turn. The pace is slow, the scenery is timeless, and local markets and cider mills add a cozy, authentic New England charm. As far as Vermont fall foliage is concerned, the Green Mountains are the heart of the state to see it in.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Base in Manchester, VT
- Day 2: Visit Weston and stop at the Vermont Country Store
- Day 3: Drive Route 100 north to Killington and visit Gifford Woods
- Day 4: Continue to Stowe and hike Smugglers’ Notch
- Day 5: Explore Waterbury for cider, cheese, and a scenic return drive
15. Columbia River Gorge, OR–WA
When to go: Mid-October
Why it’s great: The Columbia River Gorge is a dramatic corridor where waterfalls spill from basalt cliffs into a broad river valley. In fall, the bigleaf maples and cottonwoods glow yellow and gold, contrasting with dark evergreens and deep canyon walls. It’s a breathtaking blend of Pacific Northwest lushness and autumn color, perfect for scenic drives and short hikes.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Portland
- Day 2: Drive the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop at Vista House
- Day 3: Visit Multnomah Falls and hike Wahkeena Loop
- Day 4: Explore Hood River and take a drive to Mount Hood’s scenic loop
- Day 5: Return via Rowena Crest Viewpoint and The Dalles
16. Leavenworth Loop, WA
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style village surrounded by forests that ignite in yellow, red, and orange each fall. The town hosts an Oktoberfest celebration, and the surrounding mountains offer hikes, lakes, and incredible overlooks. Larch trees in the higher elevations add a unique golden glow late in the season.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive and explore downtown Leavenworth
- Day 2: Drive the Cascade Loop through Tumwater Canyon
- Day 3: Hike Icicle Ridge or Colchuck Lake
- Day 4: Visit Lake Wenatchee and nearby viewpoints
- Day 5: Return to Seattle via Stevens Pass and scenic Highway 2
17. Franconia Notch & Flume Gorge, NH
When to go: Late September to early October
Why it’s great: This rugged stretch of the White Mountains features granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and one of New England’s most spectacular foliage displays. Visitors can walk through narrow gorges, take aerial trams for mountain-top views, and explore historic covered bridges, all framed by brilliant fall color. A must visit area for anyone seeking New Hampshire road trip ideas.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Lincoln, NH
- Day 2: Hike through Flume Gorge and visit the Basin
- Day 3: Take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tram
- Day 4: Hike Artist’s Bluff and visit Echo Lake
- Day 5: Drive through Franconia Notch Parkway and explore Sugar Hill
18. Jim Thorpe Scenic Drive, PA
When to go: Mid-October
Why it’s great: Known as one of the most beautiful small towns in America, Jim Thorpe sits at the base of fall-colored mountains and offers charming Victorian architecture, scenic train rides, and easy access to hiking and biking trails. The area comes alive in autumn with festivals, foliage tours, and crisp mountain air. This area is one of the top choices for making a list of Pennsylvania road trip ideas.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Jim Thorpe and explore historic downtown
- Day 2: Ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
- Day 3: Hike Glen Onoko Falls or the Switchback Trail
- Day 4: Visit Hickory Run State Park and Boulder Field
- Day 5: Scenic drive along Route 209 through Lehighton and surrounding valleys
19. Cherohala Skyway, TN–NC
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: Often overlooked in favor of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Cherohala Skyway offers equally stunning mountain views with fewer crowds. It climbs to over 5,000 feet, offering sweeping vistas of fiery hardwood forests and cool mountain air. The drive is peaceful, wild, and ideal for travelers seeking solitude and raw Appalachian beauty.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Tellico Plains, TN
- Day 2: Drive the full Cherohala Skyway to Robbinsville, NC
- Day 3: Hike in Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Day 4: Explore Bald River Falls and nearby backroads
- Day 5: Return via Route 360 and stop at Indian Boundary Lake
20. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, AR
When to go: Mid to late October
Why it’s great: The Ozarks offer rugged, rolling landscapes covered in thick forests of hickory, maple, and oak. The Scenic Byway winds through the heart of the mountains, with access to rivers, hiking trails, and some of Arkansas’s most dramatic fall scenery. Fewer tourists make it an ideal off-the-radar destination for peaceful autumn exploration but make no mistake, this is a must visit for anyone seeking awesome Arkansas road trip ideas.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Jasper, AR
- Day 2: Drive Scenic Highway 7 north through the Ozark National Forest
- Day 3: Hike to Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
- Day 4: Explore the Buffalo National River and nearby overlooks
- Day 5: Return via Mount Magazine or stop in Ponca for elk viewing
21. Dolly Sods Wilderness, WV
When to go: Late September
Why it’s great: High in the Allegheny Mountains, Dolly Sods is one of the first places in the East to turn color each fall. Its open meadows, red-stained shrubs, and rocky terrain create a landscape unlike anywhere else on the East Coast. It’s wild, wind-swept, and stunningly colorful, perfect for adventurous hikers and quiet drives and one of the most beautiful West Virginia road trip areas to visit.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Base in Davis, WV
- Day 2: Hike Bear Rocks Preserve and explore the Red Creek area
- Day 3: Visit Blackwater Falls State Park
- Day 4: Scenic drive on Forest Road 75 and stop at Lion’s Head Overlook
- Day 5: Return via Canaan Valley or stop at Seneca Rocks
22. Rhode Island Coastal Drive
When to go: Mid-October
Why it’s great: Rhode Island’s coastal charm meets classic fall foliage along scenic drives that weave between bays, farmland, and colonial towns. The smaller scale makes it ideal for a quick yet varied trip, offering shoreline walks, historic lighthouses, and vibrant forested drives just a short distance apart. Though small, seeing this area briefly during a Rhode Island road trip makes for an awesome side stop alongside a greater New England fall foliage road trip.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Providence
- Day 2: Explore Blackstone Valley and drive to Pawtucket
- Day 3: Take Route 1A to Newport, RI
- Day 4: Walk the Cliff Walk and tour Ocean Drive mansions
- Day 5: Visit Jamestown and Fort Wetherill before heading north
23. Massachusetts Fall Drive (Berkshires + Mohawk Trail)
When to go: Early to mid-October
Why it’s great: Western Massachusetts is a fall treasure, home to rolling hills, covered bridges, artist towns, and the historic Mohawk Trail. During October, the forests explode in color, offering quiet drives with a perfect mix of scenic overlooks, culture, and cozy small-town stops. For anyone seeking Massachusetts road trip ideas, this state is highly underrated when it comes to fall foliage.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Stay in Stockbridge or Great Barrington
- Day 2: Drive Mount Greylock Scenic Byway
- Day 3: Follow the Mohawk Trail through Shelburne Falls and the Bridge of Flowers
- Day 4: Explore North Adams and visit Natural Bridge State Park
- Day 5: Return via Deerfield and explore a local orchard or museum
24. Minnesota North Shore, MN
When to go: Late September to early October
Why it’s great: The North Shore drive from Duluth to Grand Marais hugs the shores of Lake Superior while climbing through the Sawtooth Mountains. Fall foliage blankets the forests in oranges and yellows, and waterfalls tumble down from the hills toward the rocky coast. It’s a perfect blend of lake, forest, and cliffside beauty.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start in Duluth, MN
- Day 2: Visit Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse
- Day 3: Explore Tettegouche State Park and hike Shovel Point
- Day 4: Drive to Grand Marais and hike at Judge Magney State Park
- Day 5: Return south on Scenic Highway 61, stopping at Palisade Head
25. Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Fall Loop, CA
When to go: Mid-October to early November
Why it’s great: While Yosemite National Park is most famous for its towering granite cliffs and waterfalls, fall adds a unique layer of beauty, dogwoods, oaks, and aspens glow against the dramatic rock walls. The crowds thin out after summer, the air is crisp, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada parks (like Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park) offer even more color and solitude. The variety of elevation means you’ll see foliage in stages, from the foothills up to high alpine lakes.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Yosemite Valley and visit Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, and Cooks Meadow
- Day 2: Drive Tioga Road (if open), stopping at Tuolumne Meadows and Tenaya Lake
- Day 3: Visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and hike the Grizzly Giant Loop
- Day 4: Drive south to Kings Canyon Scenic Byway and explore Zumwalt Meadow
- Day 5: Visit Sequoia National Park and the famous General Sherman Tree and drive Generals Highway before heading back
Packing List for a Fall Foliage Road Trip
Fall weather can vary dramatically depending on location and elevation, so it’s best to be prepared for cool mornings, warm afternoons, and potential rain or even snow in the mountains.
Essentials:
- Lightweight jacket or fleece layer
- Waterproof shell or rain jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks or trail food
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (yes, even in fall)
- Travel mug for coffee or hot cider
- Binoculars (for bird or wildlife watching)
- Printed or offline maps (cell service may be limited)
- Portable charger or power bank
- Camera or phone with extra storage for photos
- Daypack for short hikes
- Blanket or camp chair for scenic stops
- Travel umbrella or packable poncho
- Hat and gloves for higher elevations or northern areas
Things to Know Before You Go
- Peak foliage varies by region: Higher elevations and northern states turn earlier (late September–early October), while southern areas and lower elevations may not peak until mid-to-late October. Always check local foliage trackers for up-to-date timing.
- Weekends fill up fast: Fall is a popular time for travel, especially in well-known areas like New England and the Smoky Mountains. Book lodging in advance and consider traveling midweek to avoid crowds.
- Drive times may be longer: Scenic roads are meant to be savored. Between foliage traffic and photo stops, allow more time than GPS estimates suggest.
- Wildlife is active: Fall is a prime time for deer and other animals to be on the move. Drive carefully in rural areas, especially near dawn and dusk.
- Gas stations and food options can be scarce: On remote byways like the Kancamagus Highway or Million Dollar Highway, fill up your tank and pack snacks ahead of time.
- Some roads may close early: Higher elevation routes like Tioga Road in Yosemite or the Cherohala Skyway can close due to early snow. Always check road status before your trip.
- Respect the land: Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, and support local businesses along your route.
Final Thoughts
A fall foliage road trip isn’t just about the color, it’s about slowing down, breathing the cool air, and experiencing the seasonal beauty of forests, mountains, lakes, and coastlines across the country. Whether you’re winding through Vermont’s backroads or cresting mountain passes in Colorado, each of these 25 routes offers its own rhythm, flavor, and charm. Plan ahead, be flexible, and let the road lead you. Autumn doesn’t last long, but the memories you make during these golden weeks will.
