Leaf-Chasing Adventures: Best USA Destinations for Fall Foliage in 2023
Discover where to witness nature's fall foliage display, from the colorful landscapes of New England to the golden aspen groves of Colorado. Plan your leaf-peeping adventure with these ten destinations in the USA.
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As the summer sun wanes and the days grow shorter, a magnificent transformation sweeps across the United States. It's the time when Mother Nature dips her brush into a palette of fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and golden yellows to paint the landscapes with hues of autumn. In 2023, this annual spectacle promises to be as captivating as ever, inviting travelers and leaf enthusiasts on a journey through some of the most scenic destinations in the country.
In all reality, I am not a huge fan of the fall season. I love the colors and festivities, but I know that winter is quickly approaching, my least favorite time of year. Even so, I always make the time to get outside during this time to take in the changing foliage of mother nature and enjoy the smells and crisp football breeze while I can. Thankfully, the United States is huge, with all the seasons happening all at once, depending on where you are, giving me loads of opportunities to witness as summer slowly changes into fall.
From the tranquil shores of New England to the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, and from the lush forests of the Great Smoky Mountains to the coastal wonders of the Pacific Northwest, the USA boasts a diverse range of locales that come alive with the vibrant colors of fall. Whether you're an avid leaf-peeper seeking the perfect photograph, a nature lover craving the crisp air and rustling leaves or a traveler simply yearning for colorful views, this guide is for you.
If you are considering a trip around the United States this fall season, be sure to check out different tour options and available offers in the destinations you choose to travel to as well. Picture this: You're in a new city, eager to soak up its culture and discover its hidden gems. Now, imagine having a local friend by your side, someone who knows all the best spots and ensures you make the most of your visit. That's exactly what booking tours with Get Your Guide feels like. It's like having a knowledgeable travel buddy who takes you beyond the guidebooks, giving you insider access to authentic experiences.
So, with that being said, pack your bags, grab your camera, and immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of fall colors. Keep scrolling for the ten best destinations in the United States for fall foliage in 2023. Nature's grand finale is just around the corner, and the best seats in the house are reserved just for you.
New England
New England is renowned as one of the most iconic and picturesque regions to experience the brilliant fall foliage in the United States, and its popularity is well-deserved. What makes New England special is the perfect combination of a diverse range of deciduous trees, including maples, oaks, and birches, and its ideal climate for producing vibrant autumn colors. Driving through Vermont and New Hampshire during this time of year is said to be one of the prettiest drives in the world. Besides these states, several other locations stand out for their exceptional fall foliage displays in New England, such as Acadia National Park, Connecticut River Valley, Western Massachusetts, and the Blackstone Valley in Rhode Island.
The Great Smokey Mountains
When I was a kid, my Nan and Pap would take me on vacation to the Great Smokey Mountains every year around Thanksgiving. We’d spend time in Tennessee and North Carolina, and is one of my most treasured vacay memories from childhood. This national park is home to a diverse range of tree species, including maples, oaks, and hickories, which put on a stunning display of autumn colors, making it a perfect spot to see the changing of the leaves. What makes the Great Smoky Mountains special is the sheer abundance of trees that create a natural masterpiece. As the leaves change from green to reds, oranges, and yellows, the entire landscape becomes a tapestry of color. Additionally, the park's high elevation and varying microclimates result in a longer leaf-peeping season, allowing you ample time to enjoy the season.
The Ozarks
Located in Arkansas, The Ozarks is celebrated as one of the finest places to revel in the mesmerizing fall foliage in the United States. What makes the Ozarks special is its extensive hardwood forests, including a mix of oak, hickory, and maple trees. When autumn arrives, these trees burst into an array of colors, creating a captivating landscape unlike any other. The rugged and rolling terrain of the Ozarks adds to its charm, as it offers countless vantage points to appreciate the vibrant transformation of the leaves.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Located near the Canadian border, The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is revered as one of the most captivating destinations in the United States to witness the fall foliage. The Upper Peninsula's beauty is further enhanced by its lakeshores, including Lake Superior, which provides a stunning backdrop to the fall colors. This region's remote and tranquil setting allows you to immerse yourself in nature, whether by hiking the trails, enjoying a peaceful drive, or taking in the views from one of the numerous lakeside spots. The Upper Peninsula offers an authentic and unforgettable fall experience, where nature's artistry is on full display in the Great Lakes region.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado, stands out as one of the premier destinations to experience the beauty of fall foliage in the United States. What sets Aspen apart is its signature groves of aspen trees, which turn a dazzling gold during the autumn season. These golden hues, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, create a scene of natural beauty. The aspen groves in and around Aspen are famous for their vibrant transformation, making it a leaf-peeper's paradise. The charming town of Aspen also offers a blend of outdoor adventure and a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal base for exploring the scenery.
If you decide to spend a few days in Denver during your adventure in Colorado, be sure to check out Ember in Capital Hill for your accommodation. It has a fantastic location, amazing and welcoming staff, and is smack in the middle of all the fall foliage of Colorado.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is renowned for being one of the best places to witness the vibrant fall foliage in the United States. In the fall, the trees that encircle Lake Tahoe, including aspen and cottonwood, transition into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. These colorful trees, set against the backdrop of the clear blue lake, create a contrast that's a true feast for the eyes. Whether you're hiking along the shoreline, driving the byways, or taking in the views from a cozy lakeside spot, Lake Tahoe offers an autumn spectacle that's both serene and visually stunning.
If you are looking to spend extra time around Lake Tahoe, check out Vrbo for some of the best accommodation options in the area. Whether you're seeking a cozy cabin in the woods for front row seats of the fall foliage, or a charming city apartment, Vrbo offers a world of unique accommodations for every traveler. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter hotels and hello to the comforts of home wherever you go.
The Shenandoah Valley
The Shenandoah Valley in Virginia is a great place to see colorful fall leaves because it's filled with lots of trees that change into beautiful hues during the fall season. The valley's landscape is perfect for leaf-peeping, and there's a famous road called the Skyline Drive that takes you through the mountains, offering incredible views of the colorful trees. It's one of the best spots to enjoy the beauty of autumn and take in the stunning scenery.
The Columbia River Gorge
Located in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge earns its reputation as one of the best places to witness fall foliage in the United States. Diverse trees line the gorge, including deciduous trees like maples, oaks, and cottonwoods, which burst into shades of red, orange, and yellow during the autumn, making it a leaf-lovers paradise. The Columbia River Gorge also offers a stunning contrast between the leaves and the backdrop of the Columbia River, creating a masterpiece that's nothing short of breathtaking. Whether you're driving along the scenic Columbia River Highway, hiking through the forests, or taking in the views from one of the many viewpoints, the Gorge provides an enchanting fall experience.
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County, Wisconsin, holds a special place among the best destinations to experience the magic of fall foliage in the United States. During the autumn season, the trees in Door County, including maples and oaks, transform into a display of red, orange, and gold along the shores of Lake Michigan. The towns and villages of Door County, with their quaint streets and welcoming atmosphere, offer the perfect backdrop for enjoying the fall scenery. You can explore scenic byways, meander along the coastline, or savor the flavors of fall, including local apple orchards and pumpkin patches.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Last but certainly not least, The Blue Ridge Parkway ranks among the finest destinations to witness the fall foliage in the United States and is one of my personal favorites, along with the great Smokey Mountains. Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking scenery as it winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along its route, you'll find an abundance of deciduous trees, including maples and oaks, which transform into vibrant shades of fall colors. The Parkway is renowned for its high elevations and varied terrains, resulting in an extended and diverse leaf-peeping season. This means that you have ample time to explore the ever-changing landscapes and revel in the beauty of the autumn colors.
As we wrap up our journey through the best fall foliage destinations in the USA for 2023, one thing becomes abundantly clear: nature's artistry knows no bounds. So, whether you're planning a road trip, a hiking adventure, or a stroll through quaint towns, the fall foliage season of 2023 promises to be a feast for the senses. As the leaves change and the landscapes transform, these destinations invite you to savor the beauty of nature's transition. It's a reminder that the world around us is ever-changing, offering endless opportunities to connect with the natural world and create lasting memories.