Rebecca was the social media editor at CountryLiving.com and WomansDay.com. ","jobTitle":"Social Media Editor","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/657a6930-c89c-4f30-97ff-7d6f46a2035e.jpg"},"@context":"http://schema.org","about":{"@type":"ItemList","numberOfItems":55,"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Pioneer Valley, Massachusetts","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-1","description":"There are several picturesque small towns (and cute cities!) worth visiting within Massachusetts's Pioneer Valley just to sneak a peek at these vibrant red, gold, and orange leaves. 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Named for its abundance of sugar maples, it offers plenty of leaf peeping opportunities, in addition to its charming Country Church (shown here) when covered in bright foliage. PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/1439931800-16-sugarhill-gettyimages-101952434.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":27,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Jasper, Arkansas","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-27","description":"This town may be small, but it's big on natural beauty, thanks to its prime location in the Ozark Mountains.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/fall-foliage-small-towns-jasper-arkansas-1534274733.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":28,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Milford, Pennsylvania","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-28","description":"To see the Pocono Mountains come alive with fall color, book a trip to this scenic town for a weekend in October or November.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/fall-foliage-small-towns-milford-pennsylvania-1534274772.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":29,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Clayton, Georgia","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-29","description":"Can't get away until later in leaf-peeping season? Not to worry—you can find beautiful fall colors in this mountain town until late October. Chattahoochee National Forest offers picturesque views and outdoor activities.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/29-clayton-gettyimages-an4298-001.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":30,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Manchester, Vermont","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-30","description":"No leaf-peeping season is complete without a dose of New England charm. 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Leaves change gradually from late August until October, depending on their elevation. PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/1439932093-8-estes-park-gettyimages-102000298.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":36,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Kennebunkport, Maine","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-36","description":"For many, this longtime shipping port has been a destination to spend summers by the sea. Today, its charming community offers quaint shops and relaxing inns, which make it the perfect place to spend a fall getaway too.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/32-kennebunkport-gettyimages-140544431.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":37,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Vale, Oregon","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-37","description":"While you might first think of this eastern Oregon town as a winter getaway, the most spectacular time to visit is when its mountainous landscape is covered in fall foliage.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/34-vale-gettyimages-143382901.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":38,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Taos, New Mexico","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-38","description":"To see southwestern color at its best, take a drive down the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/1439929797-43-taos-gettyimages-10125653.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":39,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Abingdon, Virginia ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-39","description":"From its main street that's lined with sweeping trees to the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, you will fall in love with the beauty of Abingdon this fall.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/33-abington-gettyimages-550085111.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":40,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Woodstock, Vermont","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-40","description":"This quaint village is home to many small-town gems—from the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to the Woodstock Farmer's Market—that will ensure you have a fun getaway while surrounded by vibrant fall colors.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/4-woodstock-gettyimages-173988114.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":41,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bayfield, Wisconsin","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-41","description":"This northern Wisconsin town will please any nature lover with its bountiful fall foliage, as well as it proximity to Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rural-bayfield-wisconsin-on-a-beautiful-fall-day-royalty-free-image-1690994266.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":42,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Charlestown, Rhode Island","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-42","description":"From Burlingame State Park to Ninigret Park, this scenic town is sure to bring out your outdoorsy side.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/36-charleston-gettyimages-127864274.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":43,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Naches, Washington ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-43","description":"Experience breathtaking fall colors in a sweeping mountainous landscape in this town that sits at the foot of the Cascade Mountains. A short drive away, Chinook Pass is a must-see.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/37-gettyimages-126290672.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":44,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Natchez, Mississippi","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-44","description":"Mississippi's fall colors are best seen from the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/44-natchez-gettyimages-513054429.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":45,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Ridgway, Colorado","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-45","description":"While fall colors only stick around for a shorter period of time in Colorado, this mountain valley community's views of snowy peaks next to brightly colored trees can only be described as picturesque.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/6-ridgway-gettyimages-157353467.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":46,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Nashville, Indiana ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-46","description":"This friendly town that's full of delightful little shops and restaurants is the perfect gateway to nearby Brown County State Park.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/48-nashville-gettyimages-478154893.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":47,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Sandpoint, Idaho","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-47","description":"Enjoy the vibrant foliage of northern Idaho with a trip your whole family will love. The hidden gem happens to house the northwest's largest theme park!PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/fall-foliage-small-towns-sandpoint-idaho-1534274913.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":48,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Mount Shasta, California ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-48","description":"See California's fall color reflected over Lake Shasta with majestic mountain tops peaking out in the distance. The most stunning views, however, can be see on from hiking peaks.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/fall-foliage-small-towns-mount-shasta-california-1534274969.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":49,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bardstown, Kentucky","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-49","description":"Known as the \"Bourbon Capital of the World,\" this small town offers scenic foliage, in addition to good brew.PLAN YOUR TRIP","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/countryliving/assets/15/34/49-bardstown-gettyimages-103582443.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":50,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Defiance, Ohio","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-50","description":"This charming town in northwest Ohio features fall colors around mid-October. 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The Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park—connecting Poughkeepsie and Highland Falls—offers equally breathtaking views.PLAN YOUR VISIT","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/bear-mountain-bridge-taken-in-autumn-of-2015-royalty-free-image-1690995195.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":54,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Mystic, Connecticut","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2566/best-leaf-peeping-in-america/#slide-54","description":"While primarily a summer destination, there's hardly a bad season to visit this idyllic riverside village. 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55 of the Best Fall Towns in the U.S. for Foliage

Meet the most stunning spots in America for leaf peeping.

By
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No fall would be complete without pumpkin picking, apple treats, cozy sweaters, and, of course, gorgeous foliage. Mother Nature puts on a breathtaking autumnal show year after year, which is why so many rightfully call fall their favorite season. But if you’re itching to take your leaf-peeping hobby beyond your neighborhood this year—or just want the perfect seasonal getaway—you definitely need to book a trip to one of these beautiful small towns in the United States, known for their autumnal displays and views.

No matter where you live, there's a quaint spot just a hop, skip, and a jump away for your fall viewing pleasure. Soak up mountain locales—like Utah and Colorado—before ski season hits for primo leaf-peeping pleasure. Or get views and brews with a journey to the "Bourbon Capitol of the World" in Kentucky. Nature lovers of all ages will also thrive in picturesque places like Bayfield, Wisconsin or Taos, New Mexico.

From the California coast to New England and Vermont, these are the absolute best fall towns to travel to this leaf-peeping season. And for even more autumn enjoyment, check out the best fall foliage train rides across the country and must-visit fall festivals.

1

Pioneer Valley, Massachusetts

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There are several picturesque small towns (and cute cities!) worth visiting within Massachusetts's Pioneer Valley just to sneak a peek at these vibrant red, gold, and orange leaves. Climbing Mount Sugarloaf is among one of the most popular activities in the area—especially for leaf peeping.

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2

Montpelier, Vermont

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While it's Vermont's capital city, not a town, it's easy to see that Montpelier is bursting with small-town charm—especially during the fall. (Fun fact: It's the smallest state capital in the United States!)

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3

Saranac Lake, New York

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The region is already known for its beautiful fall colors, but this scenic village in the Adirondacks also offers miles of lakes, mountains, and hiking trails to enhance your leaf-peeping experience.

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4

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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One of the best ways to glimpse fall colors? Cascading down the Great Smoky Mountains, which surround this eastern Tennessee town. Expect to see vibrant trees at various elevations throughout the season.

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5

Stowe, Vermont

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Vermont's known for having some of the best fall colors in the world, and no place proves it better than this charming town. Home to the famous Trapp Family Lodge, the quaint spot also boasts the most brilliant color peaks from the last week of September through the first few weeks of October.

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6

Breckenridge, Colorado

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The Boreas Pass Road and all nearby trails give visitors an up-close look at the colorful mountain views. We also recommend timing your trip around the area's annual Breckenridge Oktoberfest.

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7

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

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Prepare to take a step back in time once you book a trip to this Historic National Park, which sits between the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.

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8

Jefferson, New Hampshire

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This charming New Hampshire town makes a name for itself in the fall, not only because of its spectacular scenery and vibrant colors, but also because of its quiet farmland and proximity to the White Mountains.

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9

Wellsboro, Pennsylvania

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Considering the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania lives here, Wellsboro is an absolute must-see when covered in beautiful foliage.

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10

Munising, Michigan

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Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Superior, this Upper Peninsula town's beautiful waterfalls get a bright makeover once fall rolls around.

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11

Cherokee, North Carolina

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This charming town will take you straight into the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, but make sure you spend ample time in the southern locale itself for its rich Native American culture.

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12

Camden, Maine

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Deemed as the spot "where the mountains meet the sea," this seaside residence is big on small-town history.

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13

Calistoga, California

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Situated in Napa County, this beautiful town offers vineyards covered in fall foliage. Leaf peeping while sipping on wine—what could be better?

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14

Kent, Connecticut

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This longtime farming community offers old-fashioned charm. Visit Macedonia Brook State Park for views of Harlem Valley and the Catskill Mountains.

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15

Parkville, Missouri

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Hidden just outside out of Kansas City, this small town is known to locals for antiquing. Sounds like the perfect way to take a break from leaf peeping along the Missouri River, doesn't it?

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16

Galena, Illinois

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From Galena Oktoberfest to tours of its historic homes, this Midwest town offers several season-specific events that your whole family will love.

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17

Oakland, Maryland

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A leaf-peeping trip to Maryland is not complete without a visit to Swallow Falls State Park, where bold yellows reflect off of the Youghiogheny River.

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18

Fish Creek, Wisconsin

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Whether you're in town for fall festivals or just to visit Peninsula State Park, brilliant fall hues are guaranteed.

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19

Park City, Utah

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While you may have been to this destination in winter, its fall-covered mountains make it worth visiting before ski season is in full swing.

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20

Keene, New York

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This small town is known as the home of Mt. Marcy, the highest peak in the Adirondacks, so it's not surprising that it offers some of the most breathtaking views of the region. Of course, it only gets more beautiful in the fall when the mountains are alive with rich fall color.

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Rebecca Shinners
Social Media Editor

Rebecca was the social media editor at CountryLiving.com and WomansDay.com. 

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