1. Stowe, Vermont

For iconic New England views, it’s hard to beat Stowe, VermontOpens in a new window. Touted as “Fall’s Color Capital,” the village town tops foliage lists year after year for its kaleidoscope display of landscape hues. Use Stowe’s website to track exactly when and where peak leaf peeping is happeningOpens in a new window along its most popular scenic routes. And if you’d like to get out of the car and stretch your legs, check out guided tours from area breweries Opens in a new window , seasonal festivals, hiking and biking trails, and even zip line experiences that will turn your fall foliage escape into a true adventure.

2. Aspen, Colorado

Golden aspens and crisp mountain air — what more could your fall getaway need? You’ll want your camera to capture the autumn scene in Aspen, ColoradoOpens in a new window, as the colorful views will soon be fleeting once colder temperatures and winter snow set in. Catch the views in September, when the Maroon Bells Scenic Area becomes painted with yellows as dazzling as the sun, paired alongside the adjacent blue waters of Maroon Lake. Not to be missed is a ride down Aspen Mountain on a gondola for a unique bird’s-eye view of the scenery

3. Ozark Mountains, Missouri and Arkansas

“The Show Me State” and “The Natural State” take their nicknames very seriously during the autumn months, showcasing natural beauty in true fall foliage splendor. Cruise by car around the areas of the OzarksOpens in a new window in both Missouri and Arkansas for gorgeous views, or park and enjoy great weather and fall activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing. As the sun sets, cozy up under the stars at a campsite, or if you prefer a more urban version of R&R, check out our pick for where to stay below.

4. Taos, New Mexico

Grab a mapOpens in a new window and tour the Enchanted Circle in Taos, New MexicoOpens in a new window, an 85-mile national forest scenic byway that explodes with color every fall. Along with sensational leaf peeping, the area is also home to some of the oldest rocks in the southwest, with a history so rich it dates back 2 billion years. Start in Taos, then travel through Questa, Red River, Eagle’s Nest, and Angel Fire, before settling back into a serene spa resort in Taos after your adventure.

5. Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee

The Great Smoky MountainsOpens in a new window are popular, and for good reason. According to the visitation numbersOpens in a new window released by the U.S. National Park Service in 2020, the Great Smoky MountainsOpens in a new window ranked #1 as the most visited national park with a whopping 12.1 million guests. Why not add to that number and visit this beautiful stretch of land on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee? Come during the fall months and you’re in for an extra treat, as the surrounding scenery becomes Mother Nature’s own work of art. Marvel at the vibrant colors as you drive through the mountains, spot nearby wildlife, and eventually hop out of the car to explore hiking trails, enjoy a picnic lunch…or simply relax and breathe in that fresh mountain air.

6. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

If you like your fall foliage escape paired with moose sightings, crystal-blue lakes, and spectacular scenery, New Hampshire’s White Mountain National ForestOpens in a new window is sure to please. Hit up the Kancamagus Highway (known by locals as “the Kank”) to enjoy a 34-mile stretch of awe-inspiring views set between Lincoln and Conway. Feel like walking? Explore the Franconia Notch State Park, set in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. Here, you’ll find numerous opportunities for sight-seeing adventures, including Flume GorgeOpens in a new window and an aerial tramway to Cannon MountainOpens in a new window (both require reservations).