Top 10 US destinations for fall colors travelers can’t miss
The end of summer is near, and the transition of seasons brings cooler temperatures, colorful foliage and cozy atmospheres. Every fall, travelers flock to natural landscapes around the country to immerse themselves in the warm, vibrant hues of the leaves changing colors – a popular activity known as leaf peeping. “Seasonal activities provide travelers with unique experiences and leaf peeping is a consistent favorite for its beauty and ease – nationwide travelers can hop in the car and be within a few hours of stunning vistas,” Priceline’s consumer travel trends expert Christina Bennett told USA TODAY in a statement. Here are the best domestic destinations to go leaf peeping, according to Priceline.
1. Hudson Valley, New York
Just a quick escape from New York City, Hudson Valley is ranked by Priceline as the top destination for leaf peeping in 2025. Travelers can explore numerous parks and preserves to take in the shades of autumn, from Croton Gorge Park to Hudson State Historic Park.
2. Boulder, Colorado
Boulders’ natural landscapes draw in travelers from all over, and one of the most famous leaf peeping activities is to drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for 55 miles of colors.Jon Austria, The Coloradoan Via USA TODAY Network
3. Snoqualmie Valley, Washington
Leaf peeping in Snoqualmie Valley is abundant, with scenic hiking and biking trails, like those on Mount Rainier. People can also make a day trip out of a scenic drive, such as exploring the Olympic Peninsula.UCG, UCG/Universal Images Group Via Getty Images
4. Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Last year, Bucks County earned the top spot on Priceline’s leaf peeping list. About an hour away from Philadelphia, Bucks County offers hot air balloon rides and drives over picturesque historic bridges.Chloe Elmer, USA TODAY Network
5. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s Bretton Woods is a hiker’s haven, with trails winding through the famous White Mountains. In the fall, these colors come even more alive.DenisTangneyJr, Getty Images
6. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Throughout the year, the Columbia River Gorge is stunning, but the forests become truly vibrant in the fall. Travelers can hike to waterfalls or go on romantic horseback rides to experience the fall colors.Zach Urness, Statesman Journal Via USA TODAY NETWORK
7. French Lick West Baden, Indiana
Travelers to French Lick West Baden can pick from several prime leaf peeping locales, such as hiking through Hoosier National Forest or taking the charming French Like Scenic Railway.Michael Clevenger, Louisville Courier Journal Via USA TODAY Network
8. North Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Compared to its counterpart South Lake Tahoe, North Lake Tahoe is a quieter, more laidback retreat. In the fall, travelers are invited to leaf peep along its iconic shoreline and hiking trails.JASON BEAN, Reno Gazette Journal Via USA TODAY NETWORK
9. Smugglers’ Notch Pass, Vermont
Vermont comes alive in the fall season, and the winding and narrow corridor called Smugglers’ Notch Pass is a leaf peeper’s dream. Travelers who take on the highway, known as Vermont’s first designated Scenic Highway, should take it leisurely with pitstops for hikes and the nearby charming towns.John Greim, LightRocket Via Getty Images
10. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires remain one of the most iconic places for leaf peeping, with a wide array of viewpoints. Hiking trails lead to stunning vistas of the canopy. People can see the colors from down below by kayaking on the lake.Joe Sohm, Visions Of America/Joseph Sohm/Universal Images Group Via Getty Images
Source : usatoday
