12 Picture-Perfect Fall Road Trips in the US To Fuel Your Wanderlust

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The US is where the road trip was perfected. Few drives are more iconic and memorable than a colorful fall road trip through the US.

There are few moments more thrilling than packing the car with snacks and hitting the road during the fall. In the US, there are dozens of epic routes that take you through colorful landscapes that seem unreal.

From pristine lakes and forests to stunning mountain views and colorful valleys, the USA’s natural wonders in fall are out of this world. Below are the 12 best fall road trips you can take in the US to take in the fall foliage.

Woodstock to Burlington (New York to Vermont)

12 Road Trips for Fall Foliage in the US Woodstock to Burlington — © James J Lucier Jr Wirestock Creators / Adobe Stock

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Vermont is arguably the epicenter of fall colors in the US—sorry, New Hampshire. The 200-mile drive between the towns of Woodstock and Burlington takes you through epic wilderness areas and charming mountain towns.

You’ll experience endless colors that stretch as far as you can see. Vivid red and yellow hues dance on the horizon as you make your way north to Vermont. On the way, you can stop and enjoy the rural towns and communities along the Hudson River Valley.

There are several routes that you can take on either side of the river, so the choice is yours. Depending on what sights you want to enjoy along the way, you can choose to detour to Albany, New York’s exciting capital, or take the longer route around the beautiful Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont.

Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts)

This 63-mile drive from Williamstown to Greenfield takes you through the colorful forests of northwest Massachusetts. You’ll travel through historical villages and rural communities tucked in the dense forest.

As far as you see, there are bright reds, yellows, and occasionally purples. The colorful leaves carpet the road as you pass creeks and valleys. In the town of North Adams, there’s even a Fall Foliage Festival, which features a parade and plenty of fall-themed activities for the whole family.

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The original route was used by the Native Americans to cross through the region’s valleys and dense forest. Today, the area is part of the sprawling Mohawk Trail State Forest. On your way, you can stop for epic hikes or rest in one of the tranquil towns along the way.

Tunnel of Trees (Michigan)

Imagine driving through a literal tunnel of trees. Yes, you can do this in Michigan. And when the fall colors are at their peak, it makes a stunning driving experience.

The drive takes you along North Lake Shore Drive outside the vacation town of Petoskey. You’ll drive slowly on a two-lane road through colorful birch, maple, and oak trees that encircle the entire road.

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As you drive along, you’ll see historic homes, parks, and viewpoints where Lake Michigan’s crystal clear waters stretch off into the distance. As you drive, you can see wildlife cross the road, as well as tourists taking selfies and holding up traffic.

North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota)

Hidden Treasures in the U.S. North Shore Minnesota — © Daniel Thornberg / Adobe Stock

This stretch of Lake Superior’s coastline is dramatic and beautiful. In the fall, the coastal forests come alive with bright colors and epic hues.

The drive follows Highway 61 north towards the Canadian border. On the way, you’ll see rugged trails that follow the coast, bays, waterfalls, and hills that inspired the music of Bob Dylan. There are also small towns where you can stop for a meal and coffee on the way.

Fall is also the season when the waves of Lake Superior rear up. As you drive, you can spot lake surfers taking on the giant inland swells that break off shore. If you time it right, the scenery of giant lake surf and autumn hues will be nothing short of epic.

Door County (Wisconsin)

Wisconsin’s Door County is a rural peninsula that juts out into Lake Michigan. The drive takes you along two routes for a round-trip drive that starts and ends in Sturgeon Bay.

You’ll see colorful foliage along the lake. There are plenty of islands, small lakes, creeks, and orchards along the way. Also, you can park your car at the end of the peninsula and take the ferry to Washington Island if you have time.

Throughout the drive, you can stop and relax at one of the small towns along the way. Each community is full of fun sights, restaurants, cafes, and pit stops where you can chat with locals and maybe sample some homemade apple cider.

Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)

Beautiful Destinations for Fall Foliage in the World Blue Ridge Parkway, USA — © Craig Zerbe / Adobe Stock

Few landscapes are as romantic and mysterious as the Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway takes you deep into the legendary mountain forests and valleys. And when the fall colors are at their peak, there’s nowhere else like it.

The route covers almost 400 miles of rural terrain. You’ll see endless views of eye-popping color that fold over the mountains and valleys as far as you can see. There are also plenty of natural wonders along the way, including waterfalls, creeks, and rock formations.

As you drive, stop along the way to enjoy the local communities tucked high in the mountains. Each has a unique charm and offers visitors something to enjoy. From delicious barbecue restaurants to live bluegrass, you can spend weeks driving along the route and only scratch the surface.

Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive (Washington)

If you want to experience towering mountains and gigantic trees mixed in with your fall color show, then Washington’s Olympic Peninsula Loop is where it’s at. This 330-mile drive takes you around the peninsula, just a few hours west of Seattle.

You’ll see breathtaking views of mountains, colorful forests, temperate rainforests, and the hauntingly beautiful Pacific Coastline. For fall color tours, few places feel so inspiring.

On the drive, stop into the small towns along the way and take in the local outdoorsy vibes. From waterfall trails to beach hikes, this drive is perfect for lovers of the outdoors.

Finger Lakes (New York)

Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region is an incredible destination for a fall colors road trip. No matter which route you take through the 11 glacial lakes, you’ll find endless colors and majestic vineyards.

The lakes form forested valleys, which are populated by dense groves of maples, oaks, and other deciduous trees. Come peak season, the hills explode in bright colors. Add the incredible lakeside communities, and you have a recipe for all-American road trip perfection.

Don’t miss the chance to stay overnight in one of the small towns near the lake. You’ll get to sample the region’s famous wine while gazing out over the colorful forests. If you have time, make your way to the beautiful city of Ithaca to check out its cafes, restaurants, and fall events.

Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

“The Kanc,” as locals affectionately call it, takes you deep into the New Hampshire wilderness. The route bends and turns through endless stretches of bright colors. Sights such as the Albany Covered Bridge make epic photo backdrops.

On the drive, you can stop at awe-inspiring scenic viewpoints such as the Sugar Hill Scenic Vista and the Hancock Overlook. Each spot has something unique to see, including waterfalls and valleys.

If you have time, you can go hiking through White Mountain National Forest. Also, don’t miss the town of Lincoln for some alpine vibes, restaurants, and shopping.

Texas Hill Country (Texas)

Texas may be famous for its deserts and canyons, but the Lone Star State does fall colors right. In Texas’ Hill Country, you can drive between Austin and San Antonio through windy roads and pastures.

The trees make stunning color displays along creeks, rivers, and forested hills. Although some parts feel very urban, you can still take a detour, which brings you deep into the rural landscapes that make this part of Texas so popular for drivers in the fall.

This route is also Texas’ wine country. Here, you can stop along the way at one of the romantic vineyards or check out a live rodeo. Either way, you’re in for a true Texas-style fall drive.

Green Mountains (Vermont)

The Green Mountains are where true lovers of fall colors can go for the ultimate experience. The colors here are extreme. Few places in the US have so much color, and when the foliage is at its peak, it forms a truly magnificent sight.

The drive along the Green Mountain Byway winds through dense forests and canopies of bright reds and yellows. The leaves form a sea of color on the road, and everywhere you look, it feels like a dream.

The Green Mountain region is full of history besides its wonderful colors. And, for anyone hungry for something sweet, the iconic Ben & Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard is well worth a visit.

Route 6 (Pennsylvania)

Pennsylvania’s famous Route 6 is truly a fall roadtripper’s dream. Along the route, you’ll have some of the most spectacular fall color displays in the county. Plus, the scenery and charming towns along the way will make you want to stretch the drive from a day to a week.

The route takes you through northern Pennsylvania’s rural landscapes. You’ll pass historic bridges, Amish communities, and fun towns that are packed with fall-themed restaurants and shops.

Stop at iconic destinations like Straub Brewery in St Marys or take the popular Elk Scenic Drive through the rolling hills and colorful forests. You’ll have the chance to see wild elks roaming along the drive, so don’t forget your camera and extra snacks to get you through the drive — you’re going to want to take your time.