10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the USA in 2021

As the leaves begin to change colors, many people start planning trips to admire the beauty of fall foliage in the USA. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 best places to see fall foliage in the USA, ranging from New England to the Great Smoky Mountains.

1. New England

New England is famous for its fall foliage, with stunning displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves in states like Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire. The best time to visit is typically mid-September to mid-October, but this can vary based on the weather. Some popular spots to see fall foliage in New England include the White Mountains, Acadia National Park, and the Kancamagus Highway.

2. Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee boasts some of the most vibrant fall foliage in the country. With over 100 species of native trees, you can see a wide range of colors from late September to early November. Popular places to see fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains include Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, and Newfound Gap Road.

3. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen trees are known for their bright yellow leaves in the fall, making Aspen, Colorado a popular destination for leaf-peeping. The best time to visit is typically late September to early October, and some popular spots to see fall foliage include Maroon Bells, Independence Pass, and Castle Creek Road.

4. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires in western Massachusetts offer some of the most picturesque fall foliage in the New England region. With rolling hills and scenic drives, the best time to visit is typically mid-September to mid-October. Popular spots to see fall foliage in the Berkshires include Mount Greylock, the Mohawk Trail, and Lenox.

5. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

While the East Coast typically gets all the attention for its fall foliage, the Pacific Northwest has its own unique beauty in the fall. The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon offers stunning displays of colorful leaves from late September to early November. Popular spots to see fall foliage in the Columbia River Gorge include the Historic Columbia River Highway, the Vista House, and Multnomah Falls.

6. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a hidden gem for fall foliage, with breathtaking views of Lake Superior and colorful leaves in the forests. The best time to visit is typically mid-September to mid-October, and popular spots to see fall foliage include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

7. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes region of New York is known for its beautiful fall foliage, with rolling hills and vineyards surrounded by colorful trees. The best time to visit is typically mid-September to mid-October, and popular spots to see fall foliage include Watkins Glen State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and the Finger Lakes National Forest.

8. The Ozarks, Arkansas

The Ozarks in Arkansas offer some of the most stunning displays of fall foliage in the South, with vibrant colors from late October to early November. Popular spots to see fall foliage in the Ozarks include Mount Magazine, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, and the Buffalo National River.

9. The Enchanted Circle, New Mexico

The Enchanted Circle in New Mexico is a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the Southwest. The best time to visit is typically late September to early October, and popular spots to see fall foliage include the towns of Taos and Red River, as well as the Carson National Forest.

10. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is known for its natural beauty, and fall foliage is no exception. With colorful aspen and cottonwood trees, the best time to visit is typically late September to early October. Popular spots to see fall foliage in Yellowstone National Park include Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and the West Thumb Geyser Basin.