Spirit of Fall: Enjoy the Season’s Color Show
There’s something restless about fall. As the year winds down and the wind kicks up in the northern hemisphere, many people want to get out of the house before settling down for the winter and before the first snow falls. What better reason than to go leaf-peeping? That’s the informal term for traveling to see brilliant displays of fall leaves.
The autumnal equinox marks the official start of fall, signaling the change in seasons. The shift in day length during this time prompts the transformation of foliage and sets the stage for autumn’s unique atmosphere.
Whether you’re saying goodbye to summer reluctantly or embracing autumn with joy, it’s hard to ignore the beautiful colors of the first leaves turning red, orange and yellow.
Why Travel for Fall Foliage?
Traveling for autumnal foliage offers more than just pretty views; it’s about immersing ourselves in nature for a moment during its most vibrant season. Fall is a favorite time for many people, thanks to the beauty it offers. The invigorating sights of fiery reds, golden yellows, and burnt oranges lining roads, rivers, and mountaintops can inspire a sense of wonder. If you catch the right moment when swirling brilliant leaves are falling around you, it can be an experience never to forget.
It’s also a chance to explore charming towns, cozy up in a cabin, and breathe in the fresh, cool air that signals the arrival of fall. Being present and fully engaged in the moment while taking in the sights and sounds of fall can make the experience even more memorable.
When to Go: Timing Your Trip
Deciding when to go is about more than having a free weekend—doing some research will pay off in ensuring that you catch the best views. Since leaves change color at different times depending on the region, you’ll want to plan your trip based on the peak foliage in the area you’re visiting, so you don’t arrive when most of the leaves are already on the ground. By early November, in many regions, most leaves have already fallen. If you visit after the peak, you may find that the best colors are in the past.
Typically, the weeks from mid-September to late October are prime time for leaf-peeping across much of the United States, though this can vary.
- Northeast: States like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine—especially New England—are renowned for their spectacular fall foliage and generally see peak foliage in early to mid-October.
- Midwest: The upper Midwest, such as Michigan and Wisconsin, hits peak color from late September to mid-October.
- South: In the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, peak color tends to happen in mid to late October.
The weather can also play a role: A warm early September can delay the color show to a little later than usual.
SmokeyMountains.com offers a great interactive map that can help you plan your trip. Slide the circle at the bottom of the map to see the predicted leaf show move across the country at different dates.
Places to Visit
If you want to get a closer look at some of the best foliage in the country, here are four top places to go—these destinations are true bucket list spots for anyone who loves fall activities.
Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
This nearly 56-kilometer stretch of backcountry is known as the “Kanc” to locals. Spend one or two days winding your way through gorgeous dense forest land. During the fall season, visitors can often find local craft fairs or handmade goods along the Kancamagus Highway, showcasing unique autumn decor and handcrafted items.
Algonquin Park, Ontario
Start planning your visit to this huge Ontario provincial park early in the season because leaves change earlier so far north. In the fall, the region also celebrates the harvest season with local festivals and markets featuring seasonal produce and traditional foods.
Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts
In addition to stunning fall colors, this historic route (it was once a Native American trading trail) also offers views of both the Berkshires and Taconic mountains.
The Mohawk Trail region has long celebrated the arrival of fall with traditional festivals and gatherings, highlighting its rich cultural and seasonal heritage.
Saint John River, New Brunswick
Follow the river as it snakes through hills, valleys, and mountains and gawk at the canopy of fiery fall trees. In the evenings, enjoy a cozy fire by the river or join local firelit gatherings that celebrate the warmth and ambiance of autumn.
Tips for the Best Leaf Peeping Experience
- Plan Your Route: Research scenic byways and roads known for their foliage. Many states have specific routes dedicated to showcasing fall colors, so map out your journey in advance to avoid missing prime spots.
- Go Early: Fall foliage season can get busy, especially in popular areas. To beat the crowds, consider traveling on weekdays or early in the morning when roads are less congested and the lighting is perfect for photos.
- Stay Flexible: Weather and temperature can cause leaves to change earlier or later than usual. If you can, keep your plans flexible so you can adjust your trip based on the foliage reports.
- Pack Smart: Autumn temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day, so be prepared for chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Bring layers, a cozy scarf, and comfortable shoes for walking or hiking.
- Embrace Small Towns: One of the joys of traveling to see fall foliage is exploring small towns along the way. Stop for apple cider at local farms, visit autumn festivals, or simply wander through charming town centers filled with local shops and eateries. Be sure to visit a local farmer’s market for fresh produce and fall flowers to enjoy during your trip.
- Decorate Your Picnic or Car: Enhance your fall outing by decorating your picnic spot or car with seasonal touches like pumpkins, colorful leaves, or autumn-themed blankets. This simple act can make your experience more festive and memorable.
Fall Decorating
As the fall season arrives, it’s the perfect time to bring the spirit of autumn right to your doorstep. One idea to instantly boost your home’s curb appeal is to add vibrant fall flowers like mums or asters to your front porch or front door. Their rich oranges, yellows, and purples echo the changing leaves and set a welcoming tone for guests and loved ones. For even more seasonal charm, try arranging pumpkins, corn stalks, or hay bales around your entryway—these classic touches create a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the season’s bounty.
Inside, let your creativity shine by crafting a fall-themed tablescape. Layer your table with orange and gold leaves, scatter a few mini pumpkins, and add rustic touches like burlap runners or wooden accents. Don’t forget the magic of lighting: candles or string lights can transform any space into a cozy retreat, perfect for gathering with friends and family. With so many great ideas to choose from, decorating for fall is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and make your home a reflection of autumn’s natural beauty.
Fall Recipes and Cooking
The fall season is a feast for the senses, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by cooking with the best seasonal foods. As the crisp air settles in and colorful leaves blanket the ground, it’s the perfect time to experiment with hearty, comforting recipes. Pumpkin is a fall favorite: Whether you’re baking a classic pumpkin pie, whipping up a batch of pumpkin spice lattes, or roasting pumpkin for a savory soup, there are so many great ideas to try. Apples, too, are at their peak, ready to be transformed into warm apple crisps, cider, or even a simple snack.
Don’t overlook other autumnal treasures like squash, cranberries, and root vegetables. Roasted with a sprinkle of herbs, they make a delicious side dish for any meal. For inspiration, visit your local farmer’s market, where you’ll find the freshest ingredients and maybe even a few new ideas for your fall menu. This is the perfect time to gather loved ones, create memorable meals, and savor the flavors that make fall such a magical season.
Fall Wellness and Self-Care
After a busy summer, the fall season invites us to slow down and focus on our own well-being. As the days grow shorter and the air turns cool, it’s a great time to embrace self-care and set intentions for the months ahead. One idea is to start a new wellness routine—try meditation, gentle yoga, or journaling to help you unwind and reflect on your own life. Seasonal activities like apple picking or wandering through a corn maze offer a fun way to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and reconnect with the natural world.
Fall is also a great time to plan for the upcoming holiday season and winter, making sure you’re prioritizing what matters most. Take a moment to check in with yourself, set new goals, or simply enjoy the slower pace that autumn brings. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, looking for ways to manage stress, or hoping to strengthen your connections with loved ones, the fall season is full of opportunities for renewal and growth. Embrace this great time to nurture your body, mind, and spirit, and carry that sense of well-being with you all year long.
Capture the Magic
To fully capture the beauty of fall foliage, keep a camera (or your smartphone) ready to snap photos of the brilliant colors around you. Consider experimenting with different angles, shooting against the light to make the colors pop, or including nearby lakes and rivers for stunning reflections.
Back home
As you return home, take a moment for slowing down and reflecting on how much has changed since spring. The fall season is marked by many festivals and celebrations; whether you’re visiting a pumpkin patch, sipping a pumpkin spice latte, or joining in a harvest celebration, these moments bring communities together. The vibrant fall color is a celebration in itself, and many communities offer a course or workshop to help you make the most of the season. Carry hope for the coming winter and the celebrations ahead, knowing the winter solstice is the next milestone on the wheel of the year.
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Originally published October 2019, updated August 2025.
