8 US Travel Destinations For The Most Spectacular Fall Colors This Year

While it is summer right now, soon the hot and busy months will be behind us as we head into fall. Starting around mid-September and into October, the leaves start changing color, transforming the landscape. Here are eight destinations to experience the best fall colors this year.

1. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

When it comes to fall colors, Ozark National Forest offers more than 1.2 million acres of gorgeous scenery. Fall foliage is at its peak here during October, when visitors will find themselves surrounded by hues of orange, red and gold. Meanwhile, the surrounding mountains, rivers, springs and parks are exceptional to photograph.

2. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville nestles in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a great place to base yourself to experience the fall colors. Among the best locations are Table Rock, Paris Mountain and Caesars Head state parks, just a short drive away. Meanwhile, there is plenty to see without even leaving the city, including Falls Park, offering stunning natural beauty just off Main Street.

3. Bar Harbor, Maine

A visit to Bar Harbor in mid-October offers visitors a glorious time in the salty sea air, while viewing the gorgeous fall colors. Meanwhile, Acadia National Park offers kayaking adventures, bird and whale watching among the stunning scenery. Naturally, downtown gives a selection of quaint shops for retail therapy along the way.

4. Catskill Mountains, New York

The Catskill Mountains make the perfect fall colorful display during October each year. Here, visitors can enjoy the fall scenery on a hiking adventure or a scenic drive. Meanwhile, along the way, a visit to the local breweries and cideries is a fun activity, along with a visit to the quaint Catskill towns like Woodstock, New Paltz and Livingston Manor.

5. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is rightfully known as “Fall Colors Capital.” With so many trees turning red, brown, yellow and orange from September through mid-October, it is easy to see why. Whether hiking, biking or scenic driving, this is a spectacular place to be in fall, even if it is a bit chilly. Moreover, a scenic drive on the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road offers a magical experience.

6. Eastern Shore, Maryland

Returning to the coastline, Eastern Shore in Maryland offers sheer beauty around the Delmarva Peninsula and Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll through Elk Neck State Park to experience the wonders of the gorgeous fall colors. While there, dine on some of the best Maryland crabs and other seafood delights.

7. The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Heading to Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains are an ideal location to enjoy spectacular fall foliage. Take a scenic drive on Route 507 around Lake Wallenpaupack for the best in fall colors. Alternatively, pick any of the gently winding roads to explore the Poconos. Here, the leaves start to turn around mid-September, while the colorful display peaks in October.

8. Staten Island Greenbelt, New York

For those based in New York City, there isn’t far to travel to visit the state’s most beautiful forests. All are located within the five boroughs of Staten Island. Take a hike among the beech, maple, oak and hickory trees as they turn from green to luscious shades of gold, red and orange. What better way to escape the bustling city and take advantage of this lovely time of year?

Fall is the perfect time to experience the gorgeous shades of foliage before winter starts creeping in.