Four of the Most Incredible Fall Foliage Trips in the United States

Oct 7, 2025

Now that October is fully underway, we’re celebrating with lots of leaf-peeping tours! Of course, we’ve brought you plenty of travel destinations in the Midwest highlighting our best autumnal foliage, but who doesn’t love a grand adventure? So throw on your best boots, cozy fall sweaters, and grab those cameras, because we’re hitting the road to explore four of the best regions in the US to do some serious fall foliage appreciation!

Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway in Georgia

In Mid-to-late October, the fall foliage will begin to show its full splendor in Northern Georgia, and will peak all the way until Mid-November if weather permits. This route will bring you unparalleled views of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, and offers plentiful hiking trails offering gorgeous vistas and numerous waterfalls. The highlight of the trip, however, will be the highest point of elevation in the state, Brasstown Bald, rising 4,784 feet above sea level. From this view point you’ll be afforded 360º views of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, and the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The stunning visitor’s center also features an 8,000 square foot museum with interactive exhibits highlighting cultural and natural history. The byway makes its way through three counties, with several charming towns of note along the way: Helen, Hiawassee, and Blairsville. Helen is a must-visit town, known for its autumnal foliage views, Bavarian inspired food and shops, and of course its magnificent Oktoberfest.

Finger Lakes Region, New York

Fall in the Finger Lakes will offer warm, sunny days and crisp, cool nights with numerous farmers markets, outdoor activities, and of course – plentiful wine tastings! While you’re here, you must enjoy the leaf-peeper’s haven that is the 1,000 mile Finger Lakes Trail. This trail winds through lush forests with vivid foliage in hues that look worthy of a postcard! It’s a prime place for paddling, canoeing, and kayaking, too, as you make your way past lush valleys and hills exploding with fiery autumnal color. Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t strongly suggest hopping on a winery tour to enjoy some crisp regional wines and seasonal specialties, and stunning views of the lakeshores. If you’re interested in the classic New York State apple, you’re in luck, too, as there are several orchards and vineyards offering apple picking and bountiful fresh fruit treats!

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

You’ll want to hit this landmark highway earlier in the season, so planning ahead for next year is best. Fall foliage views and leaf-peeping excursions begin here by the middle of September, and peak by mid-October. The towns of Conway and Lincoln offer numerous artisanal businesses and top-tier local dining! You’ll want to schedule a stop off to trek through the Flume Gorge and Franconia Notch State Park, as well as a brave journey along the Mt Washington Auto Road. In addition to driving down “the Kanc” each of those destinations will bring you unfettered bliss by way of classic New England foliage that would make a Hallmark Movie set jealous. Not interested in driving it yourself so you don’t miss the views? No problem! Book a Scenic Byway Fall Foliage Tour service and get a personal guided tour of the best views in the area.

Beartooth Highway, Montana/Wyoming

This incredible mountain roadway leads into Yellowstone’s northeast entrance and climbs nearly 11,000 feet! Peak autumnal views here are late September to Mid-October, well, if the surprise snowfall doesn’t rush the timeline that is. The area is known for its early snowfall season, generally between October 10th to the 15th which brings about the seasonal road closure. If you’re heading over in the late season, you’ll want to check the park’s closure alerts. This stunning drive offers spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, wildlife, and wildflowers in addition to the colorful foliage. Something special of note along your route is that for the first time in 80 years, you’ll notice the buttery yellow, golden hues of the baby aspen trees that are seeing return growth! And keep your eyes peeled for some grey wolf sightings which were reintroduced to the park and are responsible for keeping the elk population at reasonable numbers and contributing to the restoration of aspens.