From Alaska or Arkansas to Utah, Vermont, and Wisconsin, there are some fabulous places in the US to see fall foliage at its finest. Head to any of the dozen autumnal destinations on this list for spectacular sights. We guarantee any of these will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

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Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge area offers mountains shrouded in mist, forests hugging the shoreline, and subtle yet stunning fall colors. Expect muted shades of orange, gold, and yellow, offset by swathes of evergreen forest. The end of October is the best time to witness this spectacular sight.

The Catskills, New York

There are many ways to see the Catskills’ incomparable fall show featuring every shade of red, orange, and yellow. Climb the first tower at Mount Utsayantha’s summit, hop on the Delaware & Ulster Railroad train, or take a scenic drive or hike—the Catskills’ fall colors peak during mid-October.

Tennessee and North Carolina state line

With the Cherokee and Pisgah and National Forests plus Southern Appalachia to explore, the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee offers a fabulous fall experience. Head up Roan Mountain to see the golden forests spread out below. On higher ground, the foliage peaks in early to mid-October, while at lower elevations, it’s at its finest between late October and early November.

Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas

The jewel in Arkansas’ fall crown is the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, a 35-mile drive through Ouachita and Ozark national forests. You’ll also take in the Boston Mountain Range and Buffalo National River en route. Fall colors here begin to appear around the time September turns into October, with the peak occurring around a month later.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Follow the Skyline Drive for incredible fall views in this part of Virginia, or take to the trails to hike beneath a pretty canopy of colored leaves. You can also enjoy mile after mile of Appalachian vistas. October is the top time to visit, with the foliage generally peaking between the middle and end of the month.

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Minnesota’s North Shore

The Star State offers not one but two chances to see the region’s foliage in all its fall glory. The trees among the Sawtooth Mountains in the Superior National Forest tend to turn from mid-September to early October, while the north shore area follows around a fortnight later. Follow the North Shore Scenic Drive to see this magnificent part of Minnesota.

Acadia National Park, Maine

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Go to Mount Desert Island off the coast of Maine to witness a wonderful fall display featuring vibrant, fiery hues. The recommended route is 27-mile Park Loop Road, which partially hugs the Atlantic Ocean’s shores. Get up early at least once to see the sunrise while you’re here. Late September to early October is the ideal time to visit.

Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park in Alaska is notable because you can head here for a sneak fall preview before the golden colors spread across the rest of the land. Foliage can take on its autumnal hues in this chilly region as early as late August, especially at higher elevations. For the best experience, visit the Curry Ridge Trail to see alpine lakes, tundra, and the Yukon wilderness.

The Enchanted Circle Byway, New Mexico

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle Byway begins and ends in Taos. Trace this 84-mile route involving multiple roads, and you can see a jaw-dropping display of fall colors. The towns to visit en route are as attractive as their names suggest, whether you beeline it to Angel Fire, Red River, or Eagles Nest. Mid-October is when the foliage here is at its most spectacular.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion offers something extra special when it comes to fall colors, as the red desert provides a striking natural backdrop. Expect bright red maple leaves to match, plus the more muted yellow leaves of the cottonwood trees. At Zion, you can also hike along waterside trails while exploring. Head to the highlands in mid-October or the lowlands around a month later.

Wisconsin Northwoods

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in the Wisconsin Northlands is tailor-made for panoramic drives beneath a multicolored fall canopy. This appealing region also offers fishing, glacial lakes, and fall festivals. In this part of the US, the fall transformation occurs earlier than in some other locations, beginning in mid-September and peaking in early October.

Stowe, Vermont

With the forests of New England, the Green Mountains, hiking trails, and mountain roads, Stowe in Vermont is the quintessential fall destination. Expect a picture-perfect palette of shades ranging from pale yellow to deep red. The period between the start of September and late October is the best time to come camping or book a cabin here.

12 US Destinations To Experience the Magic of Fall Foliage