One of the best parts for fall is the joy of finding fall leaves. The beauty of fall trees with red, orange, golden yellows, and stunning purples no two views are ever the same. If you are looking for stunning fall colors, keep reading for where to see the best fall leaves the United States. These locations will give you the views of a lifetime. You never know where your adventure will take you.
Where to See the Best Fall Leaves
Missouri
I’m a bit partial to my hometown area of St. Louis, Missouri. There are some amazing places to see fall color in the St. Louis region.
Forest Park, in the heart of St. Louis, is 1,293 acres and boasts gorgeous fall colors. The paved trails throughout the park, as well as the waterways and beautiful landscaping, are an oasis in the urban landscape.
The hiking trails at the Rockwoods Reservation are a popular because they colorful leaves are beautiful in the fall. Rockwoods Reservation is an 1,880-acre park in Wildwood, Missouri. This park boasts plant diversity, wildlife, caves, and rock formations. There’s also an area for bird-watching.
Main Street in St. Charles isn’t just a quaint place to shop. The views of the Missouri River in the fall are amazing. The Katy Trail is a great place to walk, or bicycle, and surround yourself with the colors of nature.
Illinois
The beautiful fall foliage on the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway is not to be missed. This 33 mile stretch of the Great River Road, from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park boasts some of the most beautiful fall scenery in the Midwest (in my humble opinion). I grew up in the area, and have always dearly loved the drive. On one side of the road, leaves become a rainbow of color, and the other side is the peaceful Mississippi River. The Pere Marquette Lodge is a great place to stay while visiting the area. Hubs and I have lodged there several times, and are always glad we did.
Michigan
Swing by Michigan’s upper peninsula or Mackinac island for a stunning show of fall colors. The island itself is the perfect place to get away from it all. The upper peninsula will peek in late September but if you are a bit behind Mackinac Island offers peek color mid-October.
Vermont
I have long dreamed of doing a foliage tour through Vermont. The spectacular display of fall foliage in Vermont is world-renowned for its beauty and richness of color. Route 100 is recommended as an amazing scenic drive. Although, I’m pretty sure all of Vermont is spectacular.
New York
In the second half of September head up to upstate New York for peek color and plenty of fall activities open to the public. Head south to the New York Catskills where you can visit the 5 state lookout to enjoy fall leaves in New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut all at once for a stunning fall color display you will remember for a lifetime. This is the tour I want to do!
Alaska
Head to Denali National Park in Alaska and see the fall leaves at the highest point in North America. The fall colors take hold here before they spread downward making this perfect for an early to mid september trip trip. This national park offers plenty of great sights and wildlife for a trip well worth the time.
Pennsylvania
Pine Creek Gorge in Pennsylvania is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. This location erupts in a stunning display of fall color that your entire family is sure to enjoy. This is the perfect secluded place for a fall camping trip. Take your hiking boots or bike with you to enjoy the trails including a 62 mile long bike trail.
Georgia
Brasstown Bald Georgia offers a stunning platform 5,000 feet above sea level allowing you to view the leaves in North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia from one location. Plan to arrive early in the day as they are currently limiting how many cars can enter the park at a time.
Minnesota
Duluth Minnesota’s tallest waterfall is a sight to be seen as leaves change along the shores of Lake Superior. Drive the long winding roads for a breathtaking view you will never forget. This is perfect if you are looking for easy viewing on the perfect fall road trip.
Maine
Maine is well known for its gorgeous display of fall colors. The perfect weather for leaf transformation makes main a go to destination for those looking to enjoy the fall leaves. The salty sea air adds a touch of whimsy to the entire experience. Swing by the coast for the best views or travel through Acadia National Park.
Arkansas
Arkansas boasts the Ozark National Forest where fall colors take their peak in October spanning 1.2 million acres of land and trees. This park is filled with stunning land features from springs to mountain tops leaving you with the opportunity to explore something new year after year. Be sure to bring your hiking boots and a camera with you for this trip.
Sticking close to home this fall? Make up a batch of this Cinnamon Toast Puppy Chow and drive around to see the foliage near your own back yard.
