Top Leaf Peeping Road Trips for Scenic Fall Views
Fall is one of the most spectacular times of year to hit the road when forests transform into fiery landscapes of reds, oranges, and golds. Leaf-peeping road trips offer more than just pretty views. They provide unforgettable journeys through scenic byways, charming small towns, and breathtaking natural wonders.
From the classic Northeast drives to the expansive Midwest and rugged Western mountains, here are some top road trips for scenic fall foliage.
Explore Northeast Byways at Peak Color
The Northeast byways have long been a popular destination for leaf peeping. The rolling hills are filled with hiking trails and peak fall colors of creamy corals, brilliant yellows, shocking oranges, and vibrant reds so colorful that, unless you go there in person, you might think they were digitally enhanced.
Most people arrive for leaf-peeping late September through mid-October. Peak foliage occurs in early October in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire, while areas further south, like Massachusetts, peak in mid-to-late October. So, head north first, then hit the southern sections.
In New Hampshire, the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) offers a 56-mile scenic drive that winds through the White Mountain National Forest, featuring numerous forest overlooks, waterfalls, and numerous day-use areas to enjoy.
For those in Vermont, head to Stowe and go to Cold Hollow Cider and explore some scenic hikes. Stop along towns like Weston, Waterbury, Montpelier, and Waitsfield for plenty of fall colors, and of course, take a drive through Smuggler’s Notch for an unforgettable fall display!
Finally, spend a day on the Mohawk Trail (Route 2) in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, famous for its beautiful mountain scenery and great leaf peeping spots like the Poet’s Seat Tower. You can also spend some time in Boston and enjoy fall colors in the Arnold Arboretum, Boston Public Garden, Commonwealth Avenue, and along the Charles River Esplanade.
With all the unforgettable stops, you’ll want backup power for your smartphone or camera so you won’t miss out on great leaf-peeping shots. The EcoFlow RAPID Pro-X Power Bank is compact with 27,650mAh of air-travel-friendly charging, featuring three output ports for phones, tablets, and laptops, and super-fast charging capabilities.
Traverse Midwest Scenic Corridors for Broad Canopies
Another great destination for leaf-peeping cross-country road trips is the Midwest scenic corridors. Start your journey in late September and early October in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Then, head south into Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, to see brilliant displays along routes like Illinois' Great River Road or Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, with plenty of fall colors from mid-to-late October. Finally, head further south into Missouri and the Ozarks to enjoy more vibrant fall colors in late October and early November.
For a truly unforgettable journey, the Great River Road is a National Scenic Byway that follows the Mississippi River 3,000 miles from Minnesota to Louisiana. It offers a wide range of diverse scenery and extensive tree cover along the riverbanks. Stop to explore scenic cities like Chicago, Saint Paul, Memphis, and Nashville along the way.
There are also plenty of hiking opportunities, especially at Mississippi Palisades State Park.
Head Westward for Unique Mountain Colors
For those seeking unique mountain scenery and colors this autumn, head west on a scenic RV route into the Pacific Northwest.
Start your journey in Yellowstone National Park in Lamar Valley, Wyoming, where you’ll find beautiful mountain views with golden, auburn, and crimson trees and grasses. Aim for late September and early October to catch the best of the aspen and cottonwood foliage. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so be aware of potential road closures.
Next, head to Maroon Bells, Colorado, for iconic mountains, vibrant late-September foliage with aspens, and scenic lake views.
Then, keep heading northwest into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington. The 7.2-mile Maple Pass Loop Trail comes alive in mid-October with spectacular yellow, red, and orange maple leaves, reflecting in the golden waters of Lake Ann.
Finally, head south into the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, where you'll find fiery foliage from big-leaf maples, Oregon ash, and cottonwoods. With cascading waterfalls and river views, it is truly a sight to see by mid-October.
Gear & Power for Off-Grid Leaf-Peeping
Essential road trip gear for your off-grid leaf-peeping adventure includes a portable power station, which allows you to keep your devices powered up while you are off the grid.
For short excursions, day hikes, and overnight trips, the EcoFlow RAPID Pro-X Power Bank provides ample power to charge your phone, camera, tablet, and laptop.
However, if you plan to be off-grid for more than a couple of days, you'll want something with more capacity, such as the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus, which offers 600W of output. It’s compact and lightweight, offering fast charging and supporting a broader range of devices to keep your leaf-peeping adventure going.
DELTA 3 Max Plus Portable Power Station
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is the Best Place to Go Leaf Peeping?
The best place to go leaf peeping depends on your travel ability and personal preferences. Still, popular destinations include places like New England, the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Wyoming, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon, which are all well-known for their spectacular fall foliage.
Where in the US Is It Most Popular To Go Leaf Peeping?
According to some, the most popular place is the Hudson Valley, New York. However, New England has always been a very popular destination, particularly Vermont and New Hampshire. Other popular areas include the Great Smoky Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Ozarks, the Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest.
Final Thoughts
From the brilliant reds of New England’s byways to the golden aspens of the Rockies and the river-hugging forests of the Midwest, America’s fall foliage offers unforgettable road trip opportunities. Each region has its own peak season, so timing your route right is key to catching nature’s full display.
Whether you’re snapping photos, hiking trails, or simply soaking in the scenery, the right gear ensures a smooth journey. Keep your devices powered and ready with the EcoFlow RAPID Pro-X Power Bank, so you never miss a chance to capture the beauty of fall.