Fall foliage in the United States offers a breathtaking adventure, showcasing unique views and peak times in each region. This guide highlights the best places to see fall foliage, how to prepare for your trip, and budget-friendly travel tips. I have been to several of these places, but not in the fall (in most cases). I hope to see many of them when fall is on full display.

Best Places to See Fall Foliage

1. New England

• States: Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island

• Best Time: Late September to mid-October

• Highlights: Green Mountains (Vermont), White Mountains (New Hampshire), Acadia National Park (Maine)

2. The Great Smoky Mountains

• States: Tennessee, North Carolina

• Best Time: Mid-October to early November

• Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove

3. The Blue Ridge Parkway

• States: Virginia, North Carolina

• Best Time: Early to mid-October

• Highlights: Peaks of Otter (Virginia), Grandfather Mountain (North Carolina)

4. The Catskills

• State: New York

• Best Time: Late September to mid-October

• Highlights: Catskill Scenic Byway, Hunter Mountain, Kaaterskill Falls

5. The Berkshires

• State: Massachusetts

• Best Time: Early to mid-October

• Highlights: Mount Greylock, Mohawk Trail

6. Door County

• State: Wisconsin

• Best Time: Late September to mid-October

• Highlights: Peninsula State Park

7. Columbia River Gorge

• State: Oregon

• Best Time: Mid-October

• Highlights: Multnomah Falls

8. Aspen

• State: Colorado

• Best Time: Mid to late September

• Highlights: Maroon Bells, Independence Pass

9. Upper Peninsula

• State: Michigan

• Best Time: Late September to mid-October

• Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

10. Ozark Mountains

• States: Arkansas, Missouri

• Best Time: Mid to late October

• Highlights: Buffalo National River, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Check Local Reports: Fall foliage conditions can vary yearly, so check local foliage reports for up-to-date information.

• Weather: Weather conditions such as temperature and rainfall can impact the timing and vibrancy of fall colors.

• Crowds: Peak foliage season can attract many visitors. Visit during the week or early in the morning to avoid crowds.

• Accommodations: Book accommodations in advance, as popular destinations fill up quickly during peak season.

Budget-Friendly Fall Trips

Exploring the beauty of fall doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly destinations and activities to enjoy the vibrant autumn season:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

• Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, picnics

• Budget Tips: Free park entry, affordable cabins or campgrounds

• Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Blue Ridge Parkway

2. Asheville, North Carolina

• Activities: Explore downtown, visit local breweries, hike in Pisgah National Forest

• Budget Tips: Budget hotels or hostels, free activities like hiking and brewery tours

• Highlights: Blue Ridge Parkway, Biltmore Estate (grounds only)

3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

• Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives

• Budget Tips: America the Beautiful annual pass for $80

• Highlights: Skyline Drive, Old Rag Mountain, Dark Hollow Falls

4. Finger Lakes, New York

• Activities: Wine tasting, hiking, visiting waterfalls

• Budget Tips: Free or low-cost wine tastings, budget accommodations

• Highlights: Watkins Glen State Park, Taughannock Falls, Seneca Lake

5. Door County, Wisconsin

• Activities: Exploring charming towns, visiting state parks, enjoying the shoreline

• Budget Tips: State park day passes, affordable lodging

• Highlights: Peninsula State Park, Cave Point County Park, Fish Creek

6. Adirondacks, New York

• Activities: Hiking, canoeing, exploring small towns

• Budget Tips: Camping in state parks, budget motels

• Highlights: Lake Placid, Mirror Lake, High Falls Gorge

7. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

• Activities: Hiking, fishing, exploring caves

• Budget Tips: Free forest entry, budget-friendly cabins or camping

• Highlights: Blanchard Springs Caverns, Whitaker Point, Ozark Highlands Trail

8. Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

• Activities: Hiking, visiting small towns, lake activities

• Budget Tips: Affordable cabins or motels, low-cost outdoor activities

• Highlights: Bushkill Falls, Delaware Water Gap, Lake Wallenpaupack

9. Great River Road, Minnesota/Wisconsin

• Activities: Scenic drives, hiking, exploring river towns

• Budget Tips: Budget motels or B&Bs, free activities like hiking and sightseeing

• Highlights: Red Wing, Pepin, Wabasha

10. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

• Activities: Hiking, exploring waterfalls, enjoying the lakeshore

• Budget Tips: Affordable motels or campgrounds, many natural attractions are free

• Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Porcupine Mountains

Budget Travel Tips

• Off-Season Discounts: Traveling in early or late fall can save money on accommodations and activities.

• Local Eats: Dine at local cafes and diners instead of high-end restaurants.

• Public Transport: Use public transportation or carpool to save on travel costs.

• Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of free or low-cost outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing.

By choosing budget-friendly destinations and making the most of affordable activities, you can enjoy the beauty of fall without straining your wallet. Plan your trip wisely, check local foliage reports, and embrace the stunning transformation of nature.