There is something about fall that brings a touch of magic to the air. It could be the change of seasons bringing excitement and new possibilities to the table, the anticipation of the holidays, or the vibrant colors of the leaves. Whatever it is, fall is a time for new beginnings and adventure.
So, where to go?
Journey with me as I bring you five must-visit fall destinations perfect for apple picking, leaf peeping, hiking, and soaking up the colorful hues of nature.
New England
New England is a fall lover’s paradise. The vibrant colors of the leaves are like something out of a painting, and the region is home to some of the most iconic fall destinations in the country.
Start your trip in Boston, where you can follow the footsteps of history on the Freedom Trail, learn about the city’s dark past at the Salem Witch Museum, or take a stroll through the Public Garden and admire the colorful foliage.
Then, head to the Green and White Mountains for stunning mountain views, apple picking, and scenic train rides. Go hiking to Mount Monadnock, the highest peak in southern New Hampshire, visit the Mount Washington area, or drive along the Kancamagus Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the country.
Finally, end your trip in Acadia National Park and hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard. Go kayaking in Frenchman Bay, take a seaplane for aerial fall foliage, or take a stroll in a quaint town soaking up all the fall vibes.
The best time to visit New England in the fall is from late September to early November. However, the peak of fall foliage typically occurs in mid-October, but it can vary depending on the weather.
New England is a place where you can experience all the best that fall has to offer. So start planning your trip today!
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover, and the fall is the perfect time to go. During the season, the park’s famous canyons and waterfall trails are transformed into a kaleidoscope of color, bursting with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges.
Zion is always an impressive park to visit year-round. However, during the fall, you will experience the fantastic fall foliage, ideal weather conditions, and fewer crowds, making visiting even more special.
Whether you find adventure by hiking the famous Narrows or taking in the panoramic views on the Canyon Overlook Trail, Zion has the perfect trail for you!
There are endless options for those who prefer to relax in nature, from a scenic drive on Zion-Mount-Camel Highway to a stroll through town to settling on a patio deck overlooking the beautiful rock formations. There are plenty of things that everyone can enjoy!
The best time to see the fall colors in Zion is from mid-October to early November.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Zion National Park today and experience the magic of fall!
Great Smoky Mountains
Have you ever seen a mountain range bursting with color? If not, you must visit the Smoky Mountains in the fall. The park is home to over 100 species of trees, and their leaves turn various colors, from brilliant reds and oranges to golden yellows. The result is a truly magical sight, like something out of a Hallmark movie.
There are many things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the fall that are perfect for all ages! Let’s take a look to see what some top-notch things are to do.
For outdoorsy and adventurous people, Smoky Mountains National Park is home to many hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the best trails for fall foliage include the Abrams Falls Trail, which takes you past a cascading waterfall, to Clingmans Dome, which offers stunning views of the mountains, and Mt. LeConte, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the mountain range and town below.
For those who love chasing waterfalls, check out Grotto Falls, Rainbow Falls, which plunges 80 feet, and the most visited Laurel Falls.
Not all are in for adventure and exploration. For those who prefer to slow down and enjoy the finer things in life, taking a leisurely scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway or dining and shopping through the quaint towns of Gatlinburg and Cherokee might be more up their alley.
The best time to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains is from late September to early November. The leaves will peak during this time, and the park will be vibrant. Visiting during the fall season is a special time, so make advanced reservations, plan ahead, and expect some crowds.
The Smoky Mountains are truly magical. So pack your bags and head to the mountains for a fall foliage adventure you’ll always remember!
Napa Valley
Napa Valley is ablaze with color in the fall like a painting coming to life. The valley’s rolling hills are dotted with vineyards, and the leaves of the grapevines turn a vibrant array of sunset color hues.
Experience the magic by sipping wine at one of the 400+ vineyards or taking a beautiful scenic train ride through the countryside. You can even get aerial views of the fall foliage soaring in a hot air balloon or hiking throughout the surrounding area to be encapsulated by nature’s masterpiece.
If time is on your side, take a day trip to Yosemite National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park has stunning waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, and lush forests. You can also go hiking, camping, and fishing in the park.
The best time to see the fall colors in Napa Valley is mid-October to November. The leaves will peak during this time, and the valley will be full of life.
There is something for everyone to enjoy in Napa Valley in the fall. So pack your bags and head to the valley for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a place like no other when it comes to fall foliage. The leaves turn a vibrant array of colors sprawling across the rolling hills. The autumn breeze is crisp and refreshing, and the views are simply breathtaking.
Michigan is a bucket list destination for those looking for adventure and exploration. Let’s dive in to see what fun things there are to do.
For those who love road trips, take a scenic drive to explore the unmatched beauty found when visiting places such as the iconic Tahquamenon Falls, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Lake of the Clouds, and Copper Harbor. Visit the quaint small towns and explore the historic lighthouses dotting the peninsula.
Enjoy a walk through the woods among the countless trails ranging from lush forest floors to cascading waterfall hikes perfect for adventurers or perhaps fish and camp among the river’s edge. If kayaking is your thing, grab your oars and paddle out to Lake Superior to catch a beautiful glimpse of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
The best time to catch the peak fall colors is typically the last week of September and the first two weeks of October.
The Upper Peninsula is extraordinary, and fall is a fantastic time to visit. So pack your bags and head to the U.P. for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Fall is a special time to embark on a journey to soak up the true beauty of nature. Whether you take a scenic drive through the colorful fall foliage, cozy up in a cabin overlooking a valley, or sip wine during harvest time, there is something for everyone. So pack your bags and set off on your next adventure.
