From coast to coast, experience the magic of fall colors in a variety of destinations throughout the United States. Truly the crowning glory of all seasons, autumn is an amazing time when the trees abandon their perennial green for a colorful explosion of bright red, orange and yellow leaves. Even better, it’s also a great time to find amazing deals and less crowds. Here’s our guide to the top six states to visit during this unforgettable season.
#1 Vermont
Vermont’s fall foliage season is the longest in the United States, starting in early September and ending around late October. The fall colors are celebrated with the popular Plymouth Cheese & Harvest Festival and Fine Wine & Food festivals. Enjoy an unforgettable autumn getaway that provides ample opportunities to savor Vermont’s famous maple products, fish in the local waters, and enjoy a round of golf in the lush greens. You can also experience Vermont as part of a New England Fall Foliage Tour, available in five, six and seven-day vacations.
#2 Maine
Besides being famous for its delicious lobster and iconic lighthouses, Maine is also home to stunning nature. A hidden gem of New England, the state’s Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful coastal parks in the world. By September the summers crowds will have all but faded out, leaving the roadways clear. If you love fall foliage, then October is the perfect month for leaf peeping among the many new orange and yellow colors. Try a three-day tour of Maine from New York City that includes many of the state’s top attractions.
#3 New York
The fall colors of maple, oak, and birch transform the landscape of this already charming city, making it more appealing. The historic towns of upstate New York light with alluring shades, the Hudson Valley adorned with vibrant colors, and the celebration of autumn with harvest festivals and pick-your-own fruit events, autumn in New York is certainly not be missed. But even if your vacation goes no further than the city, you can experience plenty of beautiful fall colors. Be sure take a walk through Central Park during its most beautiful time of year.
#4 Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a paradise for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and canoeing, especially with the backdrop of the beautiful fall colors. The fall foliage along the roads leading to Cape Cod, the Berkshires, and the popular Mohawk and Jacob’s Ladder Trails display rare hues of the fall colors. The scenic countryside and pretty villages rich with history and culture, makes it one of the best autumn vacation getaways. Even if you only have a weekend to spend here, you can still enjoy a vacation package to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.
#5 Washington
While much of the state is beautiful in autumn, Washington’s Olympic National Park is perhaps the most stunning place to visit during this season. The huge maple trees explode in a bright array of fall colors. It’s also a great time to glimpse elk bugling away at all hours. Even better, Olympic National Park is just a short distance from Seattle. Enjoy a four-day tour that includes this breathtaking park and also visits some of the states top highlights including Mount Rainier, Leavenworth and Snoqualmie Falls.
6. Tennessee
One of the best kept secrets of the East Coast, Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains is another fall foliage hot spot outside of New England. Late September is the start of fall season here as the colors steadily descend from the highest peaks down throughout the park. Peak season for foliage is usually about mid-October to early November.
If you’re traveling with family make sure to head to the Cataloochee Valley or the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to spot elk grazing in their natural habitat. Or, hop in a classic hayride for a leisurely excursion through the fall landscape. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a great way to experience a panoramic view and discover the full breadth of this majestic national park.
For more amazing fall experiences around the world, click here.
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