Autumn officially begins on September 22, and with it comes the spectacular transformation of deciduous forests across the United States. The timing of peak foliage varies depending on altitude, latitude, and local weather conditions. In general, higher elevations and cooler temperatures see leaves changing color first, with northern and mountainous regions peaking in late September, while southern areas often reach their peak in November.
If you’re planning a fall getaway, timing is key to experiencing the most vibrant leaves. Here’s a guide to predicting peak foliage and suggestions for the best U.S. destinations to enjoy autumn’s colorful display.
Predicting Peak Fall Colors
Each year, several resources analyze historical data, precipitation, temperature trends, and local observations to forecast peak foliage. Popular tools include The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map, and the camping app Hipcamp, which offers an interactive map for finding campgrounds near top leaf-peeping spots.
While forecasts are helpful, predicting the exact timing of peak colors can be tricky. “Past results don’t always predict this year’s outcomes, but they provide a solid idea of typical progress,” says a representative from The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Staying flexible with travel dates will help ensure you catch the foliage at its best.
Top U.S. Destinations for Fall Foliage
New England and Upstate New York
The East Coast is famous for its vivid fall colors. In New England, states like Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire typically peak in early October. Maine’s Acadia National Park is a standout destination, with peak colors often arriving between October 21–27. Watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain’s 1,530-foot summit is a breathtaking experience.
Vermont and New Hampshire offer classic autumn activities such as hiking, apple picking, and indulging in cider doughnuts. Massachusetts’ Berkshires, close to Boston and New York City, is also a favorite for leaf peepers. Upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountains boast an extended season, making October an ideal time to visit.
The West
Northwest Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana experience early leaf changes in late September. Grand Teton National Park, for example, offers golden cottonwoods and aspens during this period, though foliage often peaks in October.
In Colorado, towns like Aspen, Vail, and Steamboat Springs see peak colors in early October, shifting eastward over the following weeks. Utah’s national parks—Arches, Zion, and Bryce Canyon—offer stunning displays from late October through early November. On the West Coast, Portland, Oregon, and the Columbia River Highway provide scenic fall drives, with mid-October being prime viewing time.
The Midwest
Michigan enjoys a long leaf-peeping season, from late September to late October, thanks to the moderating effects of the Great Lakes. Mackinac Island ferries and drives along the M-22 highway near Lake Michigan offer unforgettable views.
Other Midwest destinations include Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks and Kansas’ forested areas. By November 1, the trees lining these landscapes burst into color, with species like the American smoke tree displaying vibrant pink hues earlier in the season.
Mid-Atlantic and Southeast
As October winds down, the focus shifts to the mid-Atlantic and Southeast. The Smoky Mountains, straddling Tennessee and North Carolina, provide spectacular autumn scenery. Scenic routes such as the Cades Cove Loop Road and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer some of the best views, while observation decks like Kuwohi provide panoramic vistas.
In western North Carolina, resources from Appalachian State University detail peak color times for towns such as Waynesville, Asheville, Grandfather Mountain, and Boone. Virginia’s foliage season generally runs from October 10–31, with real-time updates available from the Virginia Department of Forestry.
The South
Southern regions experience peak colors later in the year, often in November. Southern Arizona and New Mexico offer beautiful autumn scenery by mid-November. In Texas, Big Bend National Park provides excellent hiking and camping amid fall colors, while Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Louisiana’s Kisatchie National Forest offer additional vibrant settings.
Tips for Planning Your Leaf-Peeping Trip
To maximize your autumn experience, use forecasting tools like The Old Farmer’s Almanac and the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map. Check for real-time updates and keep an eye on local weather conditions, as unexpected storms or warm spells can alter peak timing.
Flexible travel plans, including adaptable flights and accommodations, help ensure you catch the best colors without stress. Booking early is advisable for popular foliage destinations, but maintaining flexibility allows for last-minute adjustments.
Conclusion
Fall in the U.S. offers a rich palette of colors that vary from region to region. Whether you’re hiking the Smoky Mountains, driving through New England, or exploring the West’s high-altitude parks, autumn provides unforgettable landscapes and experiences. With careful planning, the right resources, and a sense of flexibility, you can enjoy the peak of fall foliage wherever your travels take you.
