There’s something about fall that grabs my heart from the moment the air cools and the leaves begin their slow dance to the ground. I love the way the morning light filters through amber and crimson branches, the smell of crispness in the air, and the hush of a world getting ready to slow down. To me, fall isn’t just a season — it’s a celebration. A time to walk with wonder, pause more deeply, and let nature remind me of beauty and change.
Maybe it’s the way the air feels cleaner, the way a cup of coffee warms my hands, or how a single golden leaf drifting down can stop me in my tracks. Every year, I find myself stopping for color. As I drive, I look intentionally for the spots where the world turns shades of gold, scarlet, and rust. I long for weekend drives, the occasional hike through the woods, or simply sitting on the porch wrapped in a blanket; something about fall just invites me to slow down and savor creation’s artistry and remember my Master and His touch. I drive my kids bonkers because I will stop in the on the side of the road and just stare at a tree. LOL
This year, I get to do something that has been on my bucket list my entire life, and that is go to the Northeast to see the fall foliage. And I get to do it with my favorite person on the planet, my husband.
If you feel even a little tug in your soul at the first hint of gold or rust in the trees, you’re in the right place. Come walk with me through where to see the best fall leaves — and let your heart fall in love all over again.
Where to See the Best Fall Leaves
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. I’ve read that the crisp air, fiery foliage, and golden light of fall in Stowe is nothing short of magical, and I absolutely cannot wait to see it. That’s where we’ll spend part of our time. I’m sure we’ll drive up (or down) the scenic Route 100 and possibly 112 on our way to New Hampshire.
New Hampshire
We’ll be in North Conway a few days as well. We’re doing a fall scenic train ride. I just hope some leaves are still on the trees. They’ve had a weird season this year. Even if all the leaves are on the ground, though, I get to spend time with my honey, so it’ll be well worth it!
Missouri
My home state of Missouri puts on quite a show when autumn rolls around. Forest Park in St. Louis is one of my favorite places to see the changing colors. At over 1,200 acres, it’s full of trails, waterways, and trees that burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
If you’re craving a hike, Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood offers a rugged kind of beauty — trails lined with limestone bluffs, towering trees, and just enough quiet to make you forget the city isn’t far away.
Then there’s Main Street in St. Charles, where cobblestone sidewalks, historic buildings, and riverside views come together in the most picturesque way. Don’t forget to take a stroll or bike ride along the Katy Trail, where miles of autumn color stretch as far as you can see.
Illinois
Just across the river, the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway runs from Alton to Grafton and on to Pere Marquette State Park. This drive is breathtaking in the fall. On one side, the Mississippi rolls gently along; on the other, the trees light up in every shade imaginable.
Growing up nearby, this route was one of my favorite weekend drives. And if you really want to make a day (or weekend) of it, stop by the Pere Marquette Lodge—a cozy spot that feels made for fall getaways.
Michigan
If you’ve never been to Michigan in autumn, you’re missing out. The Upper Peninsula turns into a living postcard in early fall, while Mackinac Island glows with color by mid-October. Picture horse-drawn carriages, cool lake breezes, and streets framed by vibrant maples. It’s storybook-perfect.
New York
If you head to upstate New York in late September or early October, you’ll find yourself surrounded by magic. The Catskills are stunning this time of year. Visit the Five-State Lookout, where you can see fall color sweeping across New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut all at once. It’s the kind of view that makes you whisper “wow” under your breath.
Alaska
Want to see the season start early? Head north to Denali National Park in Alaska. The tundra turns to gold by late August, framed by snow-dusted mountains and endless skies. It’s wild, raw beauty—and the perfect place to watch God’s handiwork unfold on a grand scale.
Pennsylvania
If you love hiking or biking, Pine Creek Gorge—often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania”—is breathtaking. The 62-mile trail winds through the heart of the forest, offering views that feel untouched and peaceful. It’s one of those places that reminds you how small we are and how big God’s artistry really is.
Georgia
At Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, you can see four states at once: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. When the sun rises and the hills are draped in fall color, it’s like the whole world glows. Take your camera, a thermos of coffee, and your time — this is a view worth lingering over.
Minnesota
Head to Duluth for sweeping views of Lake Superior framed by fiery trees. The North Shore Scenic Drive is full of waterfalls, hiking trails, and overlooks that seem made for reflection. There’s something peaceful about watching the reflection of crimson and gold leaves dance on the water.
Maine
There’s a reason Maine tops so many “best fall” lists. Between the salty sea air, rugged coastlines, and blazing maples, it’s the perfect mix of wild and cozy. Acadia National Park is breathtaking, but even a quiet coastal drive will have you pulling over just to take it all in.
Arkansas
Ozark National Forest covers more than a million acres of rolling mountains, springs, and trails. In October, the hills come alive with color. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just driving the scenic byways, it’s one of the South’s most underrated fall gems.
Even if you can’t travel far, don’t miss the chance to enjoy fall where you are. Brew a cup of coffee, make a snack like Cinnamon Toast Puppy Chow, pile into the car with your family, and take a slow drive through your neighborhood. Sometimes, the most beautiful leaves are right down the street — waiting for you to notice.
Because that’s the heart of fall, isn’t it? It’s not just about the color in the trees. It’s about slowing down long enough to see it
When the Leaves Fall
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, I can’t help but see the fingerprints of God in every golden branch and scarlet tree. Fall reminds me that change, while often bittersweet, can be breathtakingly beautiful.
The trees don’t fight the coming of a new season; they simply release what no longer serves them. That’s what makes their beauty possible. The same is true for us. When we learn to release — the old habits, the fear, the control, the things we cling to out of comfort — we make space for God to do something new within us.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
Just as the trees trust the process God designed, we too can trust Him in our seasons of letting go. Fall whispers the reminder that surrender isn’t the end of life’s beauty; it’s the beginning of renewal.
So, as you take a walk through the rustling leaves or drive beneath a canopy of color, let each falling leaf remind you that release can be an act of worship.
Reflection Questions
- What is God inviting you to release in this season of your life?
- How does seeing beauty in nature help you trust God’s timing more fully?
- What “old leaves” — worries, routines, or burdens — are ready to fall away?
- How might you embrace rest and renewal this autumn?
Prayer Prompt
Lord, thank You for the beauty of fall — for the reminder that change can be good and that letting go makes room for new growth. Help me release whatever I’ve been holding too tightly, and teach me to trust Your timing in every season. In Jesus name, amen.
Download this When Leaves Fall devotional to share with friends.
Better yet, send them on over to see all the great fall destinations for seeing the leaves and to get their own copy.
***This article was orginally published in October 2019, but I occasionally update it. This year I’ve added the devotional.***
