The Best Fall Getaways for Leaf Peeping and Scenic Views

Discover the best fall getaways for leaf peeping, offering scenic views and memorable travel experiences during the vibrant autumn season.

As the vibrant colors of autumn start to take over the landscape, it’s the perfect time to plan some unforgettable fall getaways. Whether you’re a fan of leaf peeping, breathtaking scenic views, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air, fall offers unique opportunities to explore stunning destinations. From charming small towns to national parks, here are some of the best fall getaways for enjoying nature’s colorful spectacle.

1. Stowe, Vermont

Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe is one of the premier destinations for leaf peeping in the U.S. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Stowe offers visitors spectacular scenic views of vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage covering the mountains and valleys. The town itself is charming, with cozy inns, farm-to-table restaurants, and outdoor activities that make it an ideal spot for a fall getaway.

• Why It’s Great: The combination of quaint New England charm and incredible fall foliage makes Stowe a must-visit destination. Hike the trails, take a scenic drive along Route 100, or ride the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort for panoramic views.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia

Stretching for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most famous spots for scenic views and leaf peeping. This winding road offers countless overlooks where you can stop to take in sweeping vistas of colorful forests. The Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, making it a perfect route for an extended fall getaway.

• Why It’s Great: The Parkway is renowned for its beauty and the diversity of its landscapes. Take a leisurely drive, hike trails like the Humpback Rocks, or visit the charming towns along the way like Asheville, NC.

3. Aspen, Colorado

While Aspen is primarily known as a winter skiing destination, it’s also one of the best places to visit during autumn. The golden hues of the aspen trees create a stunning contrast against the rugged Rocky Mountains, offering scenic views that are breathtaking. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, this area offers incredible hiking and biking trails that wind through the colorful forests.

• Why It’s Great: The Maroon Bells, just outside of Aspen, is one of the most photographed spots in North America during fall. Visitors can also take scenic drives or explore Aspen’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is another fantastic spot for fall getaways, especially for those who enjoy leaf peeping and exploring nature. The Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic byway, offers countless spots to take in scenic views of the surrounding forests as they change color. The park also features over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail.

• Why It’s Great: Shenandoah National Park provides a quieter, more secluded option for enjoying fall foliage. Hike to waterfalls, explore hidden overlooks, or take a picnic with a view of the valleys below.

5. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., and fall is the perfect time to see why. The park offers diverse ecosystems, and the mix of deciduous trees creates a vibrant tapestry of autumn colors. From mid-September through November, leaf peeping reaches its peak, and the scenic views along the park’s trails and roads are spectacular.

• Why It’s Great: The Great Smoky Mountains offer a variety of activities for all types of travelers, from hiking and horseback riding to scenic drives like Cades Cove and Newfound Gap Road.

6. Door County, Wisconsin

For a classic Midwestern fall getaway, head to Door County, Wisconsin. Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is famous for its charming small towns, apple orchards, and stunning waterfront scenic views. The fall foliage here is absolutely breathtaking, making it an ideal spot for leaf peeping.

• Why It’s Great: Door County offers a peaceful retreat with activities like visiting local wineries, taking a ferry to nearby islands, or exploring state parks such as Peninsula State Park, where you can hike or bike along tree-lined trails.

7. Adirondack Mountains, New York

The Adirondack Mountains are a fall favorite for many travelers due to their majestic beauty and wide range of outdoor activities. The region offers vast stretches of wilderness with scenic views of mountains, lakes, and forests. During autumn, the Adirondacks are transformed into a sea of vibrant colors, making it one of the best places for a fall getaway.

• Why It’s Great: Whether you prefer hiking, canoeing, or just relaxing by a mountain lake, the Adirondacks offer a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. Visit Lake Placid or take a scenic drive through the High Peaks region for unbeatable views.

8. Catskill Mountains, New York

The Catskills are another top destination for leaf peeping and scenic views in the Northeast. Located just a few hours from New York City, the Catskills offer a relaxing escape with stunning fall foliage, charming small towns, and outdoor activities like hiking and fly-fishing. The region is known for its arts and music festivals, adding a cultural element to your fall getaway.

• Why It’s Great: The Catskills are perfect for a quick weekend trip or a longer stay. Hike to spots like Kaaterskill Falls for breathtaking scenic views, or drive along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway to take in the fall colors.

Conclusion: The Best Fall Getaways for Leaf Peeping and Scenic Views

From the colorful vistas of Vermont to the majestic Rockies in Colorado, there’s no shortage of incredible destinations for fall getaways. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely drive through nature’s most vibrant landscapes, these spots offer some of the best opportunities for leaf peeping and taking in unforgettable scenic views. Pack your bags, grab a camera, and get ready to enjoy the beauty of autumn in these amazing locations.