These 12 Stunning Fall Hikes in the US Will Make You Love Autumn Even More

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For hikers looking for fall colors and adventures, the US is one of the best destinations in the world. From mountain trails to forest treks, these fall hikes in the US will put you on the edge of your seat.

From coast to coast, the US is full of awe-inspiring natural wonders just waiting to be explored. You can find yourself surrounded by diverse wildlife, incredible views, and a kaleidoscope of colors flowing through intense scenery.

There’s no better way to experience this wonderful show of nature than taking on one of the US’s hiking trails. Below are the 12 best hikes in the US for taking in the best of the fall season.

Monadnock State Park, New Hampshire

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As far as fall colors and mountain scenery go, it’s hard to beat New Hampshire. The hiking trails summiting Mount Monadnock are both serene and moderately challenging.

The 3,165-foot Monadnock Mountain rises above the wilderness of northern New Hampshire. You’ll follow several trails through pristine forests full of colors. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the main trail to the summit and take in some of the best fall foliage views in the country.

The park has campsites where you can pitch a tent and cuddle up during cool fall nights. You may spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, or maybe the occasional bear looking for food before the winter—just make sure to hide your picnic baskets; they tend to like those.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The dense forests of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park stretch as far as your eyes can see. In the fall, this lush landscape turns into one of the most intense fall color shows on the planet.

The popular Hawksbill Summit Trail is one of the park’s most accessible. You’ll follow the steep passes and natural wonders of the Shenandoah Valley while taking in the brightly colored foliage that surrounds you.

Some of the must-see natural highlights include Rose River Falls and the scenic Baldface Mountain Overlook. After your hike, you can grab some food and enjoy the fall festivities in the nearby towns and villages, such as Stanardsville and the historic college town of Charlottesville.

Hot Springs National Park Trails, Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs is a fall mountain destination well worth checking out if you love hiking. Several trails connect to the small city. Each trail offers something unique to enjoy and offers different viewpoints and natural landmarks.

The popular Sunset Trail in town will take you up the mountain ridge overlooking the city. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful fall foliage and even see deer and other wildlife.

For a longer and more challenging hike through the fall foliage, head to the Northwoods Trail. This exciting four-mile out-and-back hike gives you awe-inspiring views of Bethel Lake and the beautiful forest.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

For views that will seem like they’re straight from your imagination, nothing beats Mount Rainier in Washington. This towering volcano rises abruptly over the pristine forest of Mount Rainier National Park.

The Burroughs Mountain Trail and Skyline Trail are by far the best ways to take in the intense colors of fall foliage and make it to some of the most epic peaks near Mount Rainier.

Nearby is the Big Creek Trailhead, another fantastic hike with incredible fall foliage. At the end of the hike, you’ll get to sit under a towering waterfall and admire the autumn foliage, towering pines, aspen trees, and wildlife.

Charlies Bunion Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, and North Carolina

12 Best Hikes in the US for Fall Charlies Bunion Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, TN, and N. Car. — © Weidman Photography / Shutterstock

Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennesse in the Great Smoky Mountains is the Charlies Bunion Trail. In the fall, the national park lights up with intense fall colors. Hues of reds, yellows, and oranges cover the mountains.

This moderately difficult trail takes you to peaks with incredible views. You’ll gaze over endless valleys and mountains and possibly see wildlife such as eagles, deer, and the occasional bear.

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If you choose, try camping in one of the serene sites in the park. While you’re roasting marshmallows over the open fire, you’ll get some of the best star-gazing opportunities in the country. For outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the fall colors, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

In Michigan’s rugged Northern Penninsula, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore draws in hikers and fall foliage-lovers by the thousands. When the leaves change colors, the entire cliffside turns into a bright red and yellow canvas above the turquoise water.

The closest hiking trails to the town of Munising start at the Munising Falls Visitor Center. The trails take you through thick forests, hidden beaches, and stunning views of Lake Superior.

One of the most popular trails is the Chapel Falls Trailhead. This three mile loop winds through colorful forests, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife viewing areas. After your hike, head into Munising to enjoy a warm pastie and hot apple cider by the water.

Mount Mansfield Trails, Stowe, Vermont

The winter sports destination of Stowe is one of the best places to visit in the US for hiking through fall foliage. Located in the mountains of northern Vermont, this densely wooded nature reserve is an outdoor-lover’s paradise.

The main trail is Long Trail which takes you up to the peak at Mount Mansfield. At the top, you’ll get to take in some of the best views in the country for fall foliage.

After enjoying the sea of color that is Vermont in the fall, head back to Stowe for some fall festivities and refreshments like hot apple cider. Once you’ve had your rest, check out Sterling Gorge Falls, a beautiful hiking area with a waterfall framed in fall colors.

High Peaks Wilderness, New York

In Upstate New York, you can hike for days through the High Peaks Wilderness. This is one of the best places in the country for fall colors and endless nature.

From Lake Placid, you’ll have tons of trails to choose from. When the mountain forests light up in colors, you’ll get to choose between several mountain vantage points to look out over the landscape.

Trails such as Chubb River Falls bring you to stunning waterfalls surrounded by red, orange, and yellow leaves. After hiking, head into town to enjoy Lake Placids festive decorations, restaurants, and cafes.

Tettegouche State Park, Minnesota

The coast of Lake Superior turns into a colorful wilderness in autumn. To truly experience the epic colors and beautiful nature of this region, head to Minnesota’s Tettegouche State Park.

The park features several trails that end in epic viewpoints and waterfalls. High Falls and Two Step Falls are two of the most popular destinations within the trail system. Bring a picnic and you can sit by the falls and enjoy the peaceful vibe and foliage.

Near the lake, check out the Sea Caves Beach Trailhead. At the end of the trail is Sea Caves Beach, one of the best places to see fall colors in the country. If you have a kayak, you can enter the giant sea caves along the shore, a truly unique fall adventure.

Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas

Home to several trails, including Ozark National Forest Trailhead, Devil’s Den State Park is one of the best places in the South to see fall colors while hiking through epic wilderness. The park covers a massive area with dense forests stretching as far as you can see.

Most trails start at Lee Creek and Lee Creek Road. As you head out into the mountains, you’ll get scenic vistas of the valleys and mountains covered in a sea of red, yellow, and orange.

There are several monuments to discover on your hike including Moonshiners Cave and the scenic Yellow Rock Overlook. Stop by the Devil’s Den Dam to enjoy a picnic while overlooking the creek and colorful foliage.

Acadia National Park, Maine

In the fall, Maine transforms into a sea of colors. Maples, oaks, and beech trees come alive in so much color you’ll think you’re dreaming.

The highlight of the park is Cadillac North Ridge Trail. This superb hiking trail brings you through the forests and rocky groves overlooking landmarks such as Bar Harbor and the islands of the Mt Dessert Narrows.

Acadia National Park is also full of great campsites where you can end your hike. Here, you can enjoy the cool nights relaxing by the fire. Don’t forget to pack plenty of food and local maple syrup. This will be a fall hiking excursion to remember.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon and Washington

Things to Do in Oregon, Enjoy Waterfall Views Multnomah Falls — © Nicholas Steven / Adobe Stock

The last epic fall hike on our list, the famous Wind Mountain Trail, is like traveling through a fantasy novel. You’ll hike through fantastic landscapes with golden foliage and numerous waterfalls that roar in the autumn.

As you hike, you’ll stumble on several view points of the mighty Columbia River. The landscape is peppered with green pines and orange and yellow maples.

Some of the top landmarks not to miss in the fall are Dog Creek Falls and Shipherd Falls. While hiking, you may spot wildlife such as deer, fox, and even bear.