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Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is famous for its golden aspens, creating a breathtaking contrast with the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The town sees its peak foliage season in mid to late September, when the vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds paint the landscape. Aspen is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of hiking trails to explore the beauty of autumn.

While the town is known for its luxurious ski resorts, fall is the perfect time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Visitors can take scenic drives or explore the Maroon Bells for the most iconic views of Aspen’s fall colors. The area’s cool mountain air and picturesque lakes add to the charm of this autumn wonderland.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a must-visit location in Vermont, famous for its vibrant foliage and charming New England atmosphere. The town’s landscape is transformed in the fall, with shades of red, orange, and yellow filling the trees. The nearby Mount Mansfield offers one of the best vantage points to view the stunning colors, and the Smuggler’s Notch State Park provides scenic routes perfect for leaf-peeping.

In addition to the foliage, Stowe offers a range of activities during the fall season, such as apple picking and visiting local pumpkin patches. The covered bridges and quaint villages make it a perfect place to capture the essence of autumn. Stowe also hosts the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival, an event where visitors can enjoy local crafts and delicious autumn treats.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is known for its striking combination of rugged mountains and vibrant foliage during the fall months. With a backdrop of the Grand Teton National Park, the aspen groves and cottonwood trees put on a spectacular display of color in late September to early October. The contrast of golden trees against the jagged peaks creates a stunning visual experience.

The town is surrounded by outdoor adventures, such as hiking, mountain biking, and even wildlife viewing, as animals like elk and bison roam freely during this time. Jackson Hole’s quaint downtown offers a charming atmosphere with its rustic buildings, art galleries, and delicious dining options, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful fall getaway.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor offers a beautiful coastal backdrop for experiencing Maine’s fall foliage. The combination of the vibrant colors of the trees with the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean creates a picturesque scene. Acadia National Park, located just outside the town, provides some of the best views of the foliage from its numerous trails and scenic drives.

In addition to leaf-watching, Bar Harbor boasts an abundance of fall activities. The town is known for its delicious seafood, so enjoying a bowl of clam chowder or lobster roll while admiring the fall colors is a must. The town also hosts events such as the Acadia Night Sky Festival, where visitors can enjoy stargazing and celebrate the clear autumn skies.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a great place to visit for fall foliage, especially in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees stretch across the mountainsides, making for a truly spectacular display in mid to late October. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite route for leaf-peepers, offering sweeping views of the surrounding forests.

The town of Asheville itself offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Visitors can enjoy art galleries, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants while soaking in the fall atmosphere. The town’s nearby hiking trails also offer a chance to enjoy the vibrant colors while exploring the outdoors.

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid is nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, where the fall foliage is particularly impressive. The town’s proximity to the high peaks means the trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold, providing breathtaking views. The scenic drive along the Olympic Trail or a boat ride on Mirror Lake offers stunning perspectives of the colorful surroundings.

Lake Placid is famous for its winter sports, but its autumn beauty is just as remarkable. The town offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere during the fall, with hiking trails that provide access to some of the best views of the foliage. Visitors can also explore the local shops and restaurants, enjoying the town’s charming vibe.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, located at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, is another great place to experience fall foliage. The Smoky Mountains are home to a diverse range of trees, including oaks, maples, and hickories, which turn vibrant colors in October. The scenic drives through the park provide easy access to the best foliage views.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for tourists year-round, but the fall months offer a particularly unique experience. The town offers plenty of attractions, including the Space Needle and Ober Gatlinburg ski area, where visitors can take in panoramic views of the colorful landscapes. The nearby town of Pigeon Forge also offers additional activities for those seeking adventure.

 Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is one of the most charming towns in Vermont, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak. The town is filled with rolling hills and lush forests, which burst into color each autumn. The nearby Billings Farm and Museum offer a taste of Vermont’s rural heritage and is a great place to visit while enjoying the stunning fall landscape.

The town itself features historic architecture, including covered bridges and colonial-style buildings. Visitors can take leisurely strolls through the town center, exploring the local shops and eateries while admiring the foliage. Woodstock’s annual Wassail Weekend in December also brings more attention to its vibrant fall scene, making it a fantastic year-round destination.

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City is known for its stunning fall foliage, with the landscape transforming into a patchwork of oranges, reds, and yellows. The area is home to a variety of trees, including sugar maples and oaks, which create a rich autumnal display. The scenic drive along M-22 offers some of the best views of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to the foliage, Traverse City is also a hub for wine lovers. The region’s wineries offer tours and tastings, giving visitors the chance to sip local wines while surrounded by the colors of fall. The town itself has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and festivals that celebrate the beauty of the season.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is a picturesque region located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, known for its breathtaking fall foliage. The area is dotted with orchards, vineyards, and forests, which display brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow as the season changes. A scenic drive along Highway 42 offers an ideal view of the vibrant colors along with views of the water.

In addition to the foliage, Door County is home to charming small towns like Fish Creek and Ephraim, where visitors can enjoy local shops and eateries. The area’s many parks, including Peninsula State Park, provide great opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The combination of nature, culture, and fall beauty makes Door County an unforgettable autumn destination.

North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway, located in the heart of the White Mountains, is known for its stunning fall foliage and scenic beauty. The surrounding mountains offer panoramic views of the vibrant colors that peak in late September through October. The Kancamagus Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., takes visitors through the heart of the fall foliage display.

The town itself is charming, with historic inns, cozy shops, and excellent restaurants. North Conway is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and visiting the nearby Echo Lake State Park. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone looking to relax, North Conway offers a perfect fall getaway.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park offers one of the most spectacular fall foliage displays in the Pacific Northwest. The area is home to a diverse range of trees, including maples, oaks, and aspen, which turn vibrant colors in late September and early October. The striking contrast of golden trees against the snow-covered peaks of Mount Rainier is nothing short of breathtaking.

For those who enjoy hiking, Mount Rainier National Park has an extensive network of trails that provide stunning views of the fall foliage. Visitors can also explore the surrounding areas, such as the Paradise area, which is known for its vibrant wildflower meadows in summer and rich fall colors in autumn. The park offers a peaceful, picturesque setting for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.

New Paltz, New York

New Paltz is a charming town in the Hudson Valley, known for its historic sites and beautiful fall foliage. The town is located at the base of the Shawangunk Mountains, which offer dramatic views of the surrounding landscape during the autumn months. The nearby Mohonk Preserve is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the stunning colors of the changing leaves.

In addition to the foliage, New Paltz is home to a vibrant arts community and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the town’s historic district, including the historic Huguenot Street, or enjoy a leisurely hike in the nearby mountains. The region is also known for its wineries and craft breweries, making it a great spot for fall enthusiasts to unwind.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, but in the fall, it offers a unique experience with vibrant foliage. The autumn colors in Sedona are particularly striking against the backdrop of the red rock landscape. The oak and maple trees turn a beautiful shade of gold, creating a stunning contrast against the desert scenery.

In addition to the foliage, Sedona offers a variety of activities such as hiking, spiritual retreats, and exploring the vibrant arts community. The town is home to numerous art galleries, restaurants, and shops, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. Sedona’s fall foliage is a lesser-known gem in the Southwest, offering a unique twist on traditional autumn beauty.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, the state capital of Wisconsin, offers a fantastic fall foliage experience, with a mix of urban and natural beauty. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum is a popular spot for leaf-peeping, where visitors can enjoy scenic walks through acres of colorful trees. The city’s many parks and lakesides provide perfect spots to enjoy the vibrant autumn landscape.

The city itself is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and a lively downtown area. Visitors can explore State Street, filled with local shops and restaurants, or take a relaxing boat tour on Lake Monona. With the combination of beautiful parks and a lively urban atmosphere, Madison offers a perfect fall experience.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, located on the Oregon Coast, offers a unique fall foliage experience that combines the changing colors of the trees with the stunning coastal views. The town is known for its iconic Haystack Rock, which provides a dramatic backdrop for the vibrant autumn landscape. The surrounding forests offer a mix of fall colors, with the bright orange and yellow leaves of the maples contrasting beautifully with the evergreen trees.

Cannon Beach is also a great spot for exploring tide pools and enjoying the crisp autumn air. The town offers a variety of art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants, making it a perfect destination for a peaceful fall getaway. The combination of the natural beauty and charming small-town atmosphere makes Cannon Beach a hidden gem for fall lovers.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake Geneva is a beautiful lakeside town located in southern Wisconsin, known for its vibrant fall foliage. The area features rolling hills and forests that are transformed into a sea of red, orange, and yellow during autumn. The Geneva Lake Shore Path is a popular route for those looking to take in the colors while walking along the lake’s edge.

In addition to the fall foliage, Lake Geneva offers a variety of activities, including boat tours, winery visits, and shopping in its quaint downtown area. The town’s historic homes and charming streets add to the appeal of the fall experience. Whether you are looking to enjoy the outdoors or relax by the lake, Lake Geneva offers a perfect autumn retreat.

Durango, Colorado

Durango is a charming town located in southwestern Colorado, surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. The fall foliage here is a sight to behold, with aspen trees turning vibrant gold against the rugged mountain backdrop. The nearby San Juan National Forest offers a variety of hiking trails that take visitors through the colorful landscapes.

Durango is also known for its historic downtown, where visitors can explore galleries, shops, and restaurants. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic train ride through the mountains, providing an excellent way to enjoy the fall colors. The town’s combination of natural beauty and rich history makes it a fantastic place to visit in the fall.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.