There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in the fall, when nature puts on its most colorful show. From the fiery reds and oranges of New England to the golden aspens of the Rockies, these 18 scenic routes offer some of the best fall foliage views across the country. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely drive or a more adventurous journey, these roads are perfect for soaking in the vibrant colors of the season.
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Tunnel of Trees, Michigan
Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees is a narrow, winding road that offers one of the most picturesque fall foliage drives in the Midwest. Named for the dense canopy of trees that arches over the road, this 20-mile stretch is particularly stunning in early to mid-October, when the leaves are at their peak. The route follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan, providing beautiful views of both the lake and the colorful foliage. Despite its short length, the Tunnel of Trees offers an unforgettable autumn experience.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile stretch winding through Virginia and North Carolina, is a prime destination for fall foliage. As you traverse the Appalachian Mountains, the road reveals a stunning mosaic of red, orange, and yellow leaves. Countless overlooks allow for panoramic views, making every turn a visual delight. The Parkway also connects to both Shenandoah National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains, offering more breathtaking scenery along the way.
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
In the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge transforms into a vibrant corridor of autumn colors each fall. Driving along the Historic Columbia River Highway, you’ll be captivated by the cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests, which all come alive with brilliant gold and crimson leaves. Late September to mid-October is the ideal period to experience this natural spectacle.
Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Kancamagus Highway is celebrated for its vibrant autumn colors. This scenic 34.5-mile stretch along Route 112 offers breathtaking views of dense forests, rushing rivers, and majestic mountains. With early October marking the peak of the foliage season, this is the ideal time to witness the area’s natural beauty. Numerous overlooks and trails provide additional opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich hues of fall.
Great River Road, Wisconsin
Following the Mississippi River, Wisconsin’s Great River Road offers a unique fall foliage experience. This scenic drive, lined with towering bluffs, becomes a canvas of color in mid-October, drawing leaf-peepers from near and far. Quaint river towns and state parks along the way provide charming stops, enhancing the journey.
Skyline Drive, Virginia
Skyline Drive, which runs through Shenandoah National Park, offers a 105-mile journey through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As autumn sets in, the park’s forests explode with vibrant colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your drive. With 75 overlooks along the way, you’ll find ample opportunities to pause and take in the panoramic views. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and black bears, which often make appearances in the fall.
Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts
Massachusetts’ Mohawk Trail, one of New England’s oldest scenic routes, is a beloved destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. Spanning 63 miles through the Berkshires, this drive offers views of rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers, all adorned with the rich hues of autumn. Late September to mid-October is the best time to explore this historic trail.
Finger Lakes, New York
New York’s Finger Lakes region is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, which is beautifully reflected in the area’s serene lakes. A road trip through this region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wineries, and quaint towns. Early October typically marks the peak of the foliage season, making it an ideal time to visit. Whether you’re exploring the lakeshore or venturing into the surrounding hills, the vibrant colors of autumn are sure to impress.
Lake Superior Circle Tour, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario
Embarking on the Lake Superior Circle Tour offers an unforgettable fall foliage experience around the largest of the Great Lakes. This extensive route, covering over 1,300 miles, showcases the beauty of the region’s forests, rocky shorelines, and quaint towns. Late September to early October is when the colors are at their most brilliant. Highlights include the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan and Minnesota’s scenic North Shore, both offering breathtaking views.
Adirondack Mountains, New York
The Adirondack Mountains in New York are a prime destination for witnessing the splendor of fall foliage. A drive through this region reveals vibrant forests, tranquil lakes, and rugged peaks, all ablaze with autumn colors. The Adirondack Scenic Byway is a particularly popular route, winding through picturesque towns and offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Late September to early October is the ideal time to capture the region’s seasonal beauty.
Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Cherohala Skyway, stretching 43 miles between Tennessee and North Carolina, offers a serene and scenic fall foliage experience. As you ascend to elevations over 5,000 feet, panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains unfold before you, with the forests below ablaze in autumn colors. The drive is particularly peaceful, offering a tranquil escape from the more crowded foliage destinations. Visiting in mid to late October will provide the best views of the season’s vibrant hues.
San Juan Skyway, Colorado
The San Juan Skyway in Colorado offers a spectacular fall foliage display, where the golden aspens contrast beautifully with the rugged San Juan Mountains. This 236-mile loop takes you through historic mining towns, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain passes. Late September and early October are the best times to witness the colors at their peak. The Million Dollar Highway section, in particular, provides some of the most awe-inspiring views in the state.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri
Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways offers a tranquil setting for a fall foliage road trip. Known for its clear rivers, rolling hills, and dense forests, the area comes alive with color in mid-October. The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway is a popular route that takes you through some of the region’s most picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to hike, explore, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico
In New Mexico, the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway offers a unique autumn experience, where the aspens turn a vibrant gold against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This 84-mile loop passes through the towns of Taos, Eagle Nest, and Red River, each offering its own mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty. The best time to visit is from late September to early October, when the fall colors are at their most vivid. The combination of stunning scenery and rich history makes this route truly enchanting.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a top destination for fall foliage, offering a vibrant display of autumn colors across its rolling mountains. The Newfound Gap Road, in particular, provides breathtaking views from the highest point in the park, where you can see the rich tapestry of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The foliage typically peaks from mid-October to early November, making this the ideal time to explore the park.
Highway 61, Minnesota
Highway 61, also known as the North Shore Scenic Drive, follows the shoreline of Lake Superior in Minnesota, offering stunning fall foliage views. As you drive along this route, you’ll be treated to a vibrant display of red, orange, and yellow leaves against the backdrop of the lake. Several state parks along the way provide opportunities for hiking and exploring, making this a perfect fall adventure.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a serene and historic route that offers a peaceful fall foliage experience through the deep South. Spanning 444 miles, this scenic drive follows an ancient trail used by Native Americans and early settlers, with forests, rivers, and rolling hills creating a picturesque landscape. In late October to early November, the trees along the parkway turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold, making it the perfect time for a road trip.
Route 100, Vermont
Route 100 in Vermont, often called the “Skiers’ Highway,” is also one of the state’s best routes for experiencing fall foliage. Running along the spine of the Green Mountains, this scenic drive offers stunning views of the vibrant forests and mountains. The route passes through charming towns like Stowe and Killington, where you can enjoy the quintessential New England fall experience. Late September to early October is the peak foliage season, making it an ideal time for a visit.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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