The best places to see fall colors this year

Some see it as the last smile of the year. The red and gold mellow mornings of the best fall seasons - peculiar and glorious, soft and soothing in September mist. Fall is a much-loved signal that the year is drawing to a close. It's that time when maple, hickory, oak, and ash trees turn America’s streets into a colorful collage of deep crimsons, bright golds, vibrant oranges, and radiant reds.

Over the next few months, each state in the U.S. will enjoy a unique flair of fall. Classic images of leaf-strewn streets and fields will blanket the country. Maine and New York will transform into leafy meadows while the streets of Chicago will turn into gold and blood-orange.

So, what are the best places in the United States to experience the magic of fall foliage? Different people associate fall with different places. However, we've listed eight places in the U.S. where the wonder of fall is more magical than Disneyland and the transformation deeper than a spiritual voyage.

Stowe

Vermont

In the ripe, golden months of September, October, and November, Stowe becomes the stuff of fairytales. Many regard Stowe as one of the best places to experience the grand transformation that comes with the season. The lush green of summer is suddenly replaced by a golden mystic hue brought by fall.

If you're in Stowe, there are several places you can visit to get the best experience. At 4,394 feet, Mount Stowe offers an unparalleled view during fall, thanks to its Arctic-alpine tundra ecosystem. Falling leaves in this windswept woodland create a breathtaking view for all that drive by at this time of year.

Fall isn't fall in Vermont without apple cider donuts. If you're in the area you should visit the family-run Cold Hollow to get a taste of all things apple and cider. 

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Cape Cod

Massachusetts

Dreaming of a September more colorful than Monet's 'Autumn on the Seine at Argenteuil'? Make your way to Cape Cod this fall for the ultimate color fest. It’s one of the best leaf-peeping spots in the country. Feast your eyes on an explosion of colors on red cedar trees, white oak, and black oak trees.

You may have to go all the way to Mid and Upper Cape to experience the burst of color at its finest. You'll be driving through charming little fishing villages and outlandish towns characterized by the genteel hum of the locals and roads painted in fall's flaming-red leaves.

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Adirondacks

New York

If you're in New York, then you may already know that the number one escape for the best fall foliage is the Adirondacks. Visitors are given a breathtaking spectacle of nature's wonder every September through November. Flaming red, subdued yellow, and blood-orange transform the landscape here into a dazzling collage.

Adirondacks offers one of the longest fall seasons in the country. However, if you want to experience the true magic of this time of year, then aim for the peak. It's a mind-blowing getaway for nature enthusiasts, leaf peepers, hikers, and couples.

From apple-picking to spooky nights and wine tasting, you'll find something for everyone in Adirondacks.

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Ozark National Forest

Arkansas

With over 1.2 million acres of spectacular landscape, Arkansas’ Ozark National Forest offers unparalleled fall scenery. During the peak of autumn, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dramatic hues of red, orange, and gold - all set amidst breathtaking scenery.

Try not to miss the Scenic 7 Byway that nonchalantly meanders through the woods towards Jasper. The Cliff House Inn is a popular place to stop by. From here you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Grand Canyon of Ozark. You might also like to drive up to Ozark Cafe - a little piece of local history that was founded in 1909.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway is another popular gateway to the wonders of fall foliage. An overgrowth of trees creates a tunnel of colorful foliage during these months.

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Portland

Oregon

Surrounded by lush evergreen, you might not immediately think of Portland as one of the best places to visit in the fall. But this hidden gem’s deciduous bigleaf maple and aspen trees sprinkle the city with leaves of gold, bright yellow, and scarlet.

Fall can be fickle in Oregon and October is generally the best month for nature lovers when floating golden leaves fill the scenic landscape of Portland.

You don’t have to go too far to enjoy fall in Portland. Take a lazy trip downtown to Washington Park and you’re in for a colorful stroll. The park paths get cushioned with foliage, a stunning display of the seasonal cycle.

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Easter Shore Maryland

Maryland

During the months of fall, the Eastern Shore pulsates with colors of rust, burnt gold and auburn. Drive to Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge and you’re surrounded by 2286 acres of rusty, leafy landscape. There are seven meandering trails for hikers to stroll through. Don’t forget to hike down to Chester River and Chesapeake Bay. Bring your fishing gear if you fancy reeling in a red drum or trout.

However, for the ultimate and best autumn experience, you’ll have to drive inland for an hour to Tuckahoe State Park. Here you can explore 20 miles of golden, leaf-laden trails or join the many nature lovers who pick this hotspot for a scenic picnic.

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Acadia National Park

Maine

Acadia National Park is 47,000 acres of lush green along Maine’s coast. However, in September much of this green transforms into a vibrant display of auburn, gold, and rust covering the rugged, untouched land.

The best time to experience the magic of fall foliage in Acadia is early to mid-October when the leaves peak. For those who like the crowd light, the weather crisp, and the leaves frost gold on the ground - this is the best time of the year.

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Great Smoky Mountain National Park

North Carolina and Tennessee

One of the most visited national parks in the country, Great Smoky Mountain National Park turns into an explosion of vibrant colors in October. Varying shades of golden, orange, auburn, and brown create a spectacular show during the months of fall. Plan your trip in October to experience the most dramatic collage of reds and browns. It’s one of the best places to visit in the fall. 

You won’t be short of ideas for where to head this fall so the hardest task may choosing a single destination. Wherever you turn, you’ll see panoramic views of foliage in the boldest and most vibrant shades. If you’re planning to hike with kids, consider kid-friendly hikes like the Kephart Prong Trail.

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