As mid-October arrives, the peak season for fall foliage begins its grand tour, shifting toward the southern states and coastal regions. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn, this weekend of October 17–19, 2025, offers the perfect opportunity. We’ve gathered a list of prime destinations across the country, complete with special events and activities to make your fall getaway unforgettable.
Northeast: Classic Autumn Charm
The Northeast is synonymous with spectacular fall colors. While some northern areas may be past their peak, many classic destinations are still showing off their brilliant hues, offering scenic drives, guided hikes, and unique local events.
Vermont and Massachusetts
Stowe, Vermont, remains a quintessential destination for breathtaking foliage. Its scenic mountain roads and numerous hiking trails are lined with a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows. For a different but equally beautiful experience, head to The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts. The hiking trails there provide stunning vistas overlooking a vast, colorful canopy. If you prefer a more curated experience, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, hosts its annual “Awash in Color” fall foliage tour this Sunday, offering a unique and historic setting for leaf peeping.
Maine and Connecticut
For those who love the coast, Acadia National Park in Maine delivers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy vibrant foliage alongside beautiful ocean views, creating a truly unique autumn landscape. Further south, Connecticut offers a couple of fantastic weekend activities. On Saturday, a guided hike at Chatfield Hollow State Park lets you experience the autumn colors in a relaxed, informative setting. On Sunday, the annual Old Lyme Fall Foliage Cruise embarks on a scenic 60-mile drive through historic towns, showcasing the region’s charm.
Hudson Valley, New York
Just a short trip from New York City, the Hudson Valley is a leaf-peeper’s paradise. This region is famous for its incredible fall colors, which you can experience at parks like Croton Gorge Park and Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. The rolling hills and riverside views make it an ideal escape for a day trip or a full weekend.
Midwest: Lakeside Views and Farm Festivals
The Midwest offers its own unique brand of autumn beauty, from vast lakeside forests to charming farm festivals. This weekend, you can find a variety of ways to celebrate the season.
Minnesota and Missouri
Minnesota’s North Shore provides a stunning backdrop for fall colors. This 154-mile stretch along Lake Superior is home to dense forests of red and orange maples, creating a dramatic contrast with the deep blue waters of the lake. In Springfield, Missouri, the Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park continues its annual Harvest Fest this weekend. It’s a perfect family-friendly option with pumpkin patches and festive activities surrounded by beautiful autumn colors. For a more adventurous drive, the Poosey Conservation Area in Missouri opens its gravel roads, typically closed to the public, for a special fall driving tour on Sunday.
Tipton, Michigan
If you’re near Tipton, Michigan, make your way to Hidden Lake Gardens for the Fall Foliage Festival on Saturday. The event features classic autumn activities like hayrides and garden exploration, allowing you to enjoy the season’s beauty in a festive atmosphere.
South: Extended Seasons and Mountain Vistas
As the colors move southward, the southern states are hitting their stride. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to llama farms, the South offers unique and memorable foliage experiences.
Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is famous for having one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country. This weekend is a prime time to visit and witness its incredible biodiversity on full display. In Franklin, Tennessee, Timberland Park is offering a guided hike on Saturday that explores the science behind the changing leaf colors. For a truly unique outing, visit the Ellaberry Llama Farm in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Their “Falling For Llamas” event runs through Sunday, offering a fun, foliage-filled weekend activity the whole family will love.
Virginia
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is another top-tier destination, known for its stunning autumn scenery along Skyline Drive. You can enjoy scenic drives and invigorating hikes with panoramic views of the colorful landscape. For bird watchers, Leesylvania State Park is hosting a bird walk on Sunday. You can observe migrating birds while enjoying the beautiful fall colors along the Potomac River.
West: Golden Aspens and Larch Madness
Out West, the fall foliage experience is all about golden aspens and unique trail races that celebrate the changing season.
Colorado
Telluride, Colorado, is a premier destination for capturing fall colors. The breathtaking views of golden aspens surrounding Mount Wilson are a photographer’s dream. The area is a gateway to other incredible spots, including the Dallas Divide, Ridgway, Ouray, and Aspen, all offering their own spectacular displays. The vibrant gold against the rugged mountain backdrop is a sight you won’t soon forget.
Washington
In the Pacific Northwest, the “Larch Madness Trail Races” are happening on Saturday in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. These races highlight the stunning golden larches of the North Cascades. Larches are unique deciduous conifers that turn a brilliant gold before losing their needles, creating a magical, fleeting spectacle for hikers and runners.
Planning Your Autumn Adventure
Before you head out, here are a few practical tips to ensure your foliage trip is a success:
- Check Local Conditions: The timing of peak foliage can be affected by recent weather. Check local tourism websites or foliage trackers for the most up-to-date reports before you finalize your plans.
- Make Reservations: Popular fall destinations can get crowded. It’s a good idea to book accommodations, tours, and even dinner reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Pack for Variable Weather: Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.
This weekend offers a fantastic window to experience the beauty of autumn across the United States. Whether you’re hiking through golden forests, enjoying a scenic drive, or participating in a local festival, the vibrant colors of fall are waiting to be explored.
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