Where to See Fall Colors in October: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Fall Road Trips in the USA
by Travelopod
July 01, 2025
Before winter’s first snow, autumn transforms the American landscape with brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. The best way to enjoy this season is to go on a drive with loved ones. This guide highlights some of the best fall road trips in the USA. Routes that showcase vibrant foliage, charming towns, and memorable stops along the way.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway from Virginia to North Carolina
1. Blue Ridge Parkway from Virginia to North Carolina
- Distance: About 469 miles
- Best Time: Mid-October
The Blue Ridge Parkway, popularly known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” is one of the best fall road trips in the USA This route winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and cozy mountain towns. The combination of colorful leaves and winding roads creates a classic autumn experience.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Mabry Mill: A historic mill known for its panoramic landscapes and fresh pancakes.
- Linville Falls: Trails lead to dramatic waterfalls and cool mountain breezes.
- Blue Ridge Music Center: Live mountain music and exhibits on local history.
2. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire Route 112)
2. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire Route 112)
- Distance: 34.5 miles
- Best Time: Late September to early October
This short, scenic drive cuts through the White Mountain National Forest. The route is famous for its vibrant foliage, mountain views, and classic New England sights.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Sabbaday Falls: A short trail leads to a waterfall in a rocky gorge.
- Covered Bridges: Historic wooden bridges add a timeless charm.
- Rocky Gorge Scenic Area: A bridge over fast-moving water, ideal for photos.
3. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway (Oregon)
3. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway (Oregon)
- Distance: About 75 miles
- Best Time: Early to mid-October
Just east of Portland, this drive shows sweeping views of the Columbia River with cliffs blazing in fall color. Highlights include Multnomah Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, and historic bridges along the old highway.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Multnomah Falls: Situated east of Portland, it is one of the country’s tallest waterfalls. The two-tiered fall adds charm to this 600-foot waterfall.
- Vista House at Crown Point: Panoramic river views from a historic building.
- Rowena Crest Viewpoint: Overlooks with expansive river and cliff vistas.
- Water Sports: Windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular.
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
- Distance: About 3,000 miles (drive in sections)
- Best Time: Early to mid-October (Midwest)
Following the Mississippi River, this route goes by gentle hills, old towns, and wide views of the river. Each section offers its own fall color and local flavor.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Hannibal, Missouri: Visit the birthplace of Mark Twain and walk through the town that inspired his stories.
- New Orleans: Savor traditional beignets and experience warm Southern hospitality.
- Riverboat Cruise: Experience the Mississippi from a paddlewheel boat.
5. Route 100 (Vermont)
5. Route 100 (Vermont)
- Distance: About 216 miles
- Best Time: Late September to mid-October
Route 100 runs through the heart of Vermont, passing through villages, rolling hills, and forests. Farm stands along the way offer fresh cider and maple treats.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Stowe: A charming town known for its shops and mountain views.
- Moss Glen Falls: A short hike to a scenic waterfall.
- Stowe Gondola: Ride above the colorful hills and valleys.
- Art Galleries: Visit Mad River Valley Arts, Bundy Modern, and The Current. These galleries are full of bright paintings, pottery, and handmade crafts from the area.
6. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
6. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
- Distance: About 233 miles (loop)
- Best Time: Late September to early October
The San Juan Skyway is renowned for golden aspens and dramatic mountain scenery. Old towns and the well-known Million Dollar Highway make this place even more special.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Telluride: Walk through charming old streets and take a ride on the complimentary gondola.
- Ouray Hot Springs: Relax in warm pools surrounded by peaks.
- Bear Creek Trail: Walk along the trail to see waterfalls and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
7. Skyline Drive (Virginia)
7. Skyline Drive (Virginia)
- Distance: 105 miles
- Best Time: Mid-October
Skyline Drive winds through Shenandoah National Park, providing wide, scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Scenic pullouts and hiking trails provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall colors.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Breathtaking Viewpoints: Overlooks like Thornton Hollow, Stony Man, and Hazel Mountain give you wide and beautiful views.
- Stony Man Trail: A short hike with rewarding vistas.
- Sunset Photos: The mountain ridges shine warmly in the evening’s golden light.
8. Lake Superior Circle Tour (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ontario)
8. Lake Superior Circle Tour (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ontario)
- Distance: About 1,300 miles (loop)
- Best Time: Early October
This loop around Lake Superior features brilliant foliage, rugged shorelines, waterfalls, and harbor towns. Each region along the lake has its own unique sights.
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Split Rock Lighthouse (Minnesota): Visit this iconic lighthouse with cliffside views and history.
- Hike Apostle Islands (Wisconsin): Explore sea caves, beaches, and forests. Kayak or boat around the islands.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Michigan): See colorful sandstone cliffs and waterfalls. Walk scenic shoreline trails.
- Explore Thunder Bay (Ontario): Tour the waterfront and Fort William Historical Park. Enjoy local culture and lake views.
- Drive Scenic Shorelines: Follow Highways 61 and 17 for stunning lake views. Stop often for photos and walks.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Try fresh lake fish, wild berries, and regional specialties. Small towns have cozy restaurants.
- Fish or Boat on Lake Superior: Go fishing or rent a boat. The lake offers peaceful water and great wildlife watching.
- Watch Sunsets Over the Lake: End your day with colorful sunsets over the wide horizon. Breathtaking skies await.
Fall Driving Safety Tips
Fall Driving Safety Tips
- Book accommodations early; fall is a popular travel season.
- Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.
- Check foliage reports for peak color predictions.
- Drive carefully, as wet leaves can be slippery.
- Carry a tire inflator for roadside peace of mind.
Fall doesn’t last long, but its colors and calm beauty stay with you forever. If you’re a travel enthusiast who loves driving long, scenic roads, this list of the best fall road trips in the USA is for you. Whether you’re chasing golden leaves or sharing stories around a campfire, every mile becomes a memory. So pack your bags, plan your route, and let the road lead you into the heart of autumn.
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