Must-Visit Leaf Peeping Destinations in Every State
There’s nothing quite like the crisp air and fiery colors of fall sweeping across America— transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of blazing color. From the rolling hills of New England to the golden aspens out West, the change of seasons is an open invitation for RV travelers to hit the road and witness Fall’s grand beauty firsthand. If you’re itching for fall adventure, this is your sign to pack up, hit the highway, and chase the season’s stunning color display.
Our travel experts have scouted coast to coast to find the top leaf peeping destinations in all 50 states—and Washington DC—so you can easily map out your perfect fall getaway. Plus, we have 7 tips to make sure your leaf peeping adventure is unforgettable. So, grab your coziest sweater, crank up a classic road trip playlist, and join us on a cross-country quest to see the very best of America’s fall foliage.
7 Tips for RVers Chasing Fall Foliage
- Check Local Foliage Trackers:
Before you travel, consult regional fall foliage tracking websites and apps to pinpoint peak color dates for your destination. This ensures you’ll catch the most stunning autumn views and can plan your route to maximize the sights. - Always Track the Weather:
Fall weather can be unpredictable. Stay up-to-date on forecasts and be prepared for anything from sunny days to sudden rain or chilly winds. Equip your RV with essentials like the Maxxfan Deluxe that can operate in any weather with a built-in rain shield for proper ventilation and comfort in changing seasonal conditions. - Prep Your RV with Fall Maintenance:
A well-maintained RV means carefree leaf peeping! Inspect your rig and perform seasonal maintenance before heading out to see the fall colors. If you’re not a DIYer when it comes to RV maintenance, there are skilled RV service professionals across the country ready to help and they can be easily found on our Dealer & Service Center Locator. - Stay Warm with a Heat Strip:
Crisp autumn mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in the mountains or forests. Add a heat strip to your RV’s A/C unit for a cozy, energy-efficient way to take the edge off those brisk early morning and light night hours. - Respect Nature:
Protect the beauty you’ve come to enjoy. Stick to marked trails, pack out all trash, minimize noise, and keep a safe distance from animals—so the fall colors and wildlife remain unspoiled for everyone. - Prep for Shorter Days:
As days grow shorter, schedule activities and travel with the earlier sunset times in mind. The upside of shorter days? Longer nights with more time for stargazing—check out our Stargazing Blog for the best tips and spots! - Savor the Journey:
Don’t just rush from point A to B. Slow down to explore charming small towns, visit local shops, and enjoy walks surrounded by colorful leaves. Take a mindful approach to your trip for memories that last—read more in our Mindful Travel Blog.
State By State Guide to Spectacular Fall Foliage
Alabama: Cheaha State Park
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Cheaha State Park is an autumn paradise for RVers. Experience a dazzling array of red, orange, and yellow foliage and venture out on the Bald Rock Boardwalk for panoramic fall views you won’t soon forget.
Alaska: Denali National Park
Catch some of the first signs of fall in Denali, where the tundra bursts into color by mid-August. Cruise the George Parks Highway for breathtaking autumn views and plenty of scenic pull-offs for photo opts.
Arizona: Sedona
Experience brilliant fall colors set against Sedona’s iconic red rocks each October. For the best views, explore Oak Creek Canyon—a spot that’s picture-perfect for soaking in Arizona’s unique autumn beauty.
Arkansas: Devil’s Den State Park
Discover Arkansas’ hidden autumn gem at Devil’s Den State Park, where vibrant fall colors light up sandstone bluffs and caves. The Butterfield Hiking Trail is ideal for day hikes, backpacking, horseback riding, and mountain biking through fall foliage.
California: Napa Valley
Experience a one-of-a-kind fall getaway in Napa Valley, where rolling vineyards burst with autumn colors. Cruise along Highway 29, enjoy scenic leaf-peeping, and savor local wines amid spectacular weather that stays warm well into November. It’s a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
Colorado: Aspen / Maroon Bells
Immerse yourself in Colorado’s vibrant autumn at Maroon Bells near Aspen, where golden aspens frame dramatic mountain peaks reflected in sparkling Maroon Lake. For an extra treat, hike to Conundrum Hot Springs in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and literally soak in the scenery.
Connecticut: Litchfield Hills
Cruise along Route 7 through Litchfield County and discover why it’s considered one of Connecticut’s most scenic fall drives. Enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Litchfield Hills Ramble, surrounded by brilliant fall colors and rolling countryside, a must-visit autumn destination for RVers seeking classic New England charm.
Delaware: Ashland Covered Bridge
Discover an overlook gem for fall colors at Ashland Covered Bridge then wander the trails of nearby Ashland Nature Center, where woodlands, meadows, and marshes showcase beautiful fall foliage. This peaceful spot is also a favorite for birders, especially during the annual fall hawk migration.
District of Columbia: National Mall
Urban adventures meet autumn beauty on the National Mall, where brilliant fall colors transform the city’s iconic monuments. Peak foliage typically arrives in late October to early November, proving you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy a wonderful fall display.
Florida: Florida Panhandle
Experience a different side of fall in the Florida Panhandle, where state parks like Torreya, Three Rivers, and Wakulla Springs showcase unexpected bursts of autumn color. Trade palm trees for fiery foliage and enjoy fall camping in these scenic state parks—Florida’s best-kept secret for RVers chasing seasonal beauty.
Georgia: Tallulah Gorge State Park
Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Tallulah Gorge, a dramatic 1,000-foot-deep canyon in North Georgia. In autumn, the gorge’s rugged scenery comes alive with vibrant fall colors, making it an unforgettable destination for RVers seeking awe-inspiring leaf-peeping adventures.
Hawaii: Haleakalā National Park
While Hawaii may not have classic autumn foliage, Haleakalā National Park dazzles with vibrant blooms and unique seasonal colors each fall. Explore scenic trails or visit a local botanic garden to experience Hawaii’s one-of-a-kind take on autumn beauty!
Idaho: Sandpoint
Savor autumn’s beauty in Sandpoint, Idaho, where the Pend Oreille Bay Trail offers scenic lakeside walks framed by brilliant fall colors. After leaf-peeping, relax at one of Sandpoint’s charming cafes, restaurants, or local shops—an inviting fall getaway for travelers seeking incredible scenery and a welcoming atmosphere.
Illinois: Galena
Experience classic fall beauty in northwest Illinois with Galena’s colorful, tree-lined downtown, the scenic Galena River Trail, and breathtaking views from Chestnut Mountain Resort overlooking the Mississippi River. Just the thing for leaf peepers looking for vibrant foliage and mid-western charm.
Indiana: Covered Bridges, Parke County
Celebrate autumn at Parke County’s Annual Covered Bridge Festival, where you can explore 31 charming, covered bridges surrounded by colorful fall foliage. Enjoy arts, crafts, and local flavors—a classic seasonal experience for RVers in Indiana’s “Covered Bridge Capital.”
Iowa: Maquoketa River
Explore the Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway, a picturesque 36-mile loop along the Maquoketa River. Take in rolling hills, riverbeds, limestone bluffs, and golden farmland—a spectacular backdrop for road trippers soaking up Iowa’s autumn colors.
Kansas: Flint Hills Scenic Byway
Experience the sweeping beauty of autumn across Kansas’ Flint Hills Scenic Byway. This 50-mile drive treats RVers to rolling tallgrass prairies painted in golden fall hues, with plenty of overlooks to soak in the seasonal beauty.
Kentucky: Bardstown
Immerse yourself in autumn at Bardstown’s Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, boasting over 16,000 acres and 40 miles of trails lined with more than 8,000 varieties of trees, shrubs, and perennials. For a unique leaf-peeping experience, dine aboard the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train as it winds through the region’s brilliant fall scenery.
Louisiana: Barataria Preserve
Discover the unique beauty of fall in Louisiana’s Barataria Preserve, where 26,000 acres of wild wetlands reveal subtle yet splendid autumn colors. Wander boardwalks and trails surrounded by cypress and wildlife—a one-of-a-kind destination for an autumnal experience unlike anywhere else.
Maine: Acadia National Park
Catch Maine’s iconic fall colors in Acadia, where the hardwoods’ fall blaze starts in September with fall foliage typically peaking mid-October. Take the scenic Park Loop Road up to Cadillac Mountain by car or enjoy the vibrant display from the water paddling out on Jordan Pond. Just the right blend of outdoor adventure and breathtaking autumn views.
Maryland: Oakland
Celebrate the season at Oakland’s Autumn Glory Festival, a vibrant five-day event in Garrett County famed for its spectacular fall foliage. Enjoy parades, crafts, and local cuisine surrounded by brilliant autumn colors—a must-stop for RVers during Maryland’s peak leaf-peeping season.
Massachusetts: Pioneer Valley
Explore Western Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley, celebrated for scenic drives, charming small towns, and picturesque hikes like the trek up Mount Sugarloaf. Named one of the nation’s top fall foliage destinations by Country Living, it’s an autumn wonderland you won’t want to miss.
Michigan: Tunnel of Trees
Cruise the iconic Tunnel of Trees on M-119, where golden and orange canopies arch over your route between Cross Village and Harbor Springs. This stunning lakeside drive is a must see for leaf peepers seeking Michigan’s most enchanting fall foliage.
Minnesota: North Shore of Lake Superior
Set out from Duluth to explore the stunning fall colors along Lake Superior’s North Shore, with three scenic byways—North Shore, Superior National Forest, and Gunflint Trail. In this part of the country you can enjoy two waves of vibrant foliage with fiery maples on the high ridges of the Sawtooth Mountains turning first followed by the golden aspen and birch along Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway
Travel the Natchez Trace Parkway by vehicle or stroll the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail for an unforgettable autumn display of maples, hickories, oaks, and more. Foliage typically peaks from mid to late October, offering miles of colorful hardwoods and classic southern scenery.
Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks
Famous for summer fun, Lake of the Ozarks transforms into a fall wonderland with vibrant foliage. Hike the trails of Ha Ha Tonka State Park to enjoy sweeping views from towering bluffs, and don’t miss the mystical ruins of the 1905 stone castle—a unique autumn adventure for leaf peepers in Missouri.
Montana: Glacier National Park
Enjoy weeks of spectacular autumn color in Glacier National Park, where fall sweeps west to east beginning in early September. Spot migrating hawks and golden eagles and drive the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road for breathtaking vistas. Keep an eye out for bears preparing for winter as you experience one of Montana’s most stunning fall landscapes.
Nebraska: Niobrara National Scenic River
Discover vibrant fall colors along the Niobrara National Scenic River, where red maples, black oaks, and honey locusts reach their peak in late October. Enjoy a unique blend of river adventures and classic autumn leaf peeping.
Nevada: Lamoille Canyon
Explore the “Swiss Alps of Nevada” in breathtaking Lamoille Canyon, where glacier-carved mountains light up with golden aspens each fall. Located near Great Basin National Park, this unspoiled haven offers RVers dramatic scenery and stunning autumn colors you won’t want to miss.
New Hampshire: White Mountains
Experience the magic of New Hampshire’s fall along the 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway—an iconic National Scenic Byway well-known for its rustic charm, rich history, and spectacular autumn views in the White Mountains. A must-drive route for RVers seeking the region’s most brilliant foliage.
New Jersey: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Explore 70,000 acres of stunning autumn scenery at the Delaware Water Gap, where the Delaware River winds for 40 miles through the Appalachian Mountains. Brilliant foliage and numerous outdoor activities make this a must-visit destination for anyone in New Jersey during the fall.
New Mexico: Taos
Venture out on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway starting in Taos, and journey through New Mexico’s colorful highlands and historic landmarks. Don’t miss the vibrant autumn views at the iconic Rio Grande Gorge—an unforgettable fall foliage destination for RVers seeking Southwestern charisma.
New York: Catskill Mountains
Experience Southern New York’s fall splendor in the Catskills, with scenic drives, hikes, horseback rides, and over 100 miles of mountain bike trails. Enjoy farm-fresh flavors at local markets and roadside stands that often stay open throughout the season—a delightful autumn escape for RVers on the east coast.
North Carolina: Blue Ridge Parkway
Journey the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway for a layered fall color display thanks to the region’s range of elevations from 650 feet at the James River to over 6,000 feet at Mt. Pisgah. Each bend in the road reveals new bursts of autumn magic—making it a quintessential foliage drive in North Carolina.
North Dakota: Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area
Immerse yourself in autumn’s brilliance at Pembina Gorge, where 2,800 wooded acres near the Canadian border burst with color every fall. This lesser-known wonder offers visitors a vibrant and peaceful leaf-peeping escape in North Dakota.
Ohio: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Discover autumn’s beauty aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or walk the colorful footpaths through Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s rolling landscape. This national park just south of Cleveland offers travelers a one-of-a-kind Ohio leaf peeping experience surrounded by the state’s radiant tapestry of fall colors.
Oklahoma: Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge
Experience brilliant fall hues alongside roaming bison, longhorns, and elk in this stunning wildlife refuge. The vibrant fall leaves set behind magnificent wild animals makes for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity for visitors seeking autumn adventure in Oklahoma.
Oregon: Columbia River Gorge
Discover dazzling Pacific Northwest fall colors in the Columbia River Gorge. Hike the Cape Horn Trail for sweeping autumn views or saddle up for a scenic horseback ride in this leaf peeping destination you won’t want to miss in Oregon.
Pennsylvania: Wellsboro
Nestled near the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Wellsboro shines in autumn with brilliant foliage. Celebrate the season with lively fall festivals and outdoor activities throughout the Potter-Tioga region.
Rhode Island: Bristol
Savor Rhode Island’s coastal autumn beauty in Bristol. Pedal the colorful East Bay Bike Path or explore the historic Coggeshall Farm Museum—offering seasonal sightseers a delightful mix of fall foliage, outdoor fun, and history.
South Carolina: Paris Mountain State Park
Enjoy a classic southern autumn at Paris Mountain State Park, where scenic hiking trails wind through brilliant fall colors making it an inviting stop for foliage enthusiasts who love to explore on foot. Peak color typically arrives from mid-October to early November.
Tennessee: Gatlinburg
Discover spectacular fall color in Gatlinburg, nestled at the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park—home to over 100 native tree species bursting with autumn hues. Enhance your Tennessee road trip with a local vibe by tuning into the “Pickin’ & Grinning: Music from the Heartland” playlist on Spotify as you explore!
Texas: Garner State Park
Discover striking fall scenery at Garner State Park, where limestone bluffs overlook the Frio River and cypress, oak, mesquite, and persimmon trees light up the landscape in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Peak color typically arrives in late October—a true Texas autumn treasure for RVers.
Utah: Zion National Park
Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail or cruise the Kolob Fingers Scenic Byway to see Zion’s autumn colors on full display. Fall is also a great time for wildlife sightings in the park—from bighorn sheep and deer to wild turkey—making Zion a top pick for autumn explorers seeking both vibrant foliage and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Vermont: Stowe
Renowned as one of America’s premier fall destinations, Stowe dazzles with a gorgeous seasonal color display. Take in sweeping views on Route 100 or Smugglers’ Notch Pass and ride the iconic gondola for a bird’s-eye view of Vermont’s autumn beauty.
Virginia: George Washington National Forest
Immerse yourself in vibrant maples and oaks in George Washington National Forest. Don’t miss the stunning Falling Spring Falls, a drive-up waterfall, and the charming Humpback Bridge, both offering picture-perfect fall photos for visitors exploring Virginia’s autumnal landscapes.
Washington: North Cascades National Park
Nicknamed the “American Alps,” North Cascades National Park comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colors each fall. Explore rugged peaks and dense forests on the Cascade Pass Trail—an essential autumn hike for park visitors seeking Washington’s most spectacular seasonal scenery.
West Virginia: Harpers Ferry
Just an hour from Washington, D.C., Harpers Ferry blends rich history with sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit in mid to late October to see peak fall color and revel in the charm of the autumn season.
Wisconsin: Door County
Nestled on a Lake Michigan peninsula, Door County bursts with vibrant orange, yellow, and red hues each fall. Beyond the brilliant foliage, enjoy local restaurants, unique shopping, and festive autumn events at this top fall destination where you can unwind amidst the vivid landscapes.
Wyoming: Grand Teton National Park
Watch the Tetons come alive with autumn color, starting in September and peaking in early October. Visit popular spots like Schwabacher Landing and the Aspen Ridge–Boulder Ridge Loop to savor the breathtaking sights of autumn in Wyoming.
Now that you know the best fall color hotspots in every state, all that’s left is to pick your route, pack your RV, and set out for adventure! Fall’s breathtaking beauty is waiting around every bend, from quiet country towns to iconic national parks. This season, let the vibrant colors of autumn guide your RV travels. Happy leaf peeping!