I look forward to the magical transformation that comes as summer gracefully gives way to fall, painting the trees in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The season of all things pumpkin spice is upon us, and cozy vibes have officially taken over. And guess what? The USA boasts some of the most stunning fall foliage around! If you’re eager to venture beyond New England, I’ve got you covered with a list of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA!
Prepare for an epic leaf-peeping adventure! I’ll be your guide to uncovering the best-kept secrets of small towns, hidden gems, and lesser-known regions. And of course, I’ve got the inside scoop on when to catch the peak of fall foliage.
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through a link below then I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover some hidden gems for leaf-peeping this autumn, you’re in the right place! In this video, I’ve rounded up some of the most underrated spots in the USA where you can experience the stunning fall colors!
@herjoliejourney On the hunt for some fall trips ideas outside of New England? Ive got you! Fall travel is just around the corner, which means destinations filled with some great fall colors and maybe a few less tourists 😉 which fall destination would you choose? #falltravel #falltripideas #fallvacationsusa #fallaesthetic #fallvibes #autumn #autumnvibes ♬ Amas Veritas - Alan Silvestri
Get ready to cozy up in style this season! As you explore those underrated places to see fall colors in the USA, you’ll want to look your best. I’ve rounded up the cutest fall pieces that are perfect for your next getaway.
Whether you’re planning a scenic drive to admire the autumn leaves or a cozy cabin retreat, these outfits will have you looking effortlessly put together. From chic sweaters to stylish boots, these picks are all about keeping you warm and cute as you embrace the fall vibes.
Most people associate Arizona with the desert, but there is so much to this state than cactus and tumbleweeds! Northern Arizona is home to a sweet little mountain oasis where you will find big, beautiful trees and hiking trails that wrap around the mountains so when fall hits the town really comes alive! It’s easily one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA.
If you’re looking for the best spots to see fall colors in Flagstaff, Arizona, you’re in for a treat! Head over to Lockett Meadow for a breathtaking view of golden aspens against the San Francisco Peaks. Another great spot is the Arizona Snowbowl, where you can take a scenic chairlift ride for panoramic views of the vibrant fall foliage. Don’t miss a drive along Highway 180—it’s like cruising through a tunnel of colorful trees!
Whether you’re hiking or just enjoying the scenery, Flagstaff’s fall colors are absolutely magical. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when you see why this beautiful town is considered one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA!
Take a scenic chairlift ride at the Arizona Snowbowl for panoramic views of the fall colors spread across the Coconino National Forest. The golden aspens and mixed conifer forests make for a breathtaking sight.
Located along the Snowbowl Road, Aspen Corner is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers. The area is filled with towering aspen trees that turn a brilliant gold during the fall.
Just off the Snowbowl Road, Hart Prairie is another beautiful location to see the changing leaves. The open meadow with scattered aspen groves offers stunning views of the fall colors.
This is one of the most popular spots for fall colors in Flagstaff. The area is known for its golden aspens, which create a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the San Francisco Peaks. The Inner Basin Trail here offers a beautiful hike through the heart of the fall foliage.
Seeing fall colors in the Salt Lake City area is a magical experience that often flies under the radar, making it one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA. The Wasatch Mountains come alive with a stunning palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, thanks to a diverse mix of aspens, maples, and oaks.
Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and Millcreek Canyon are just some of the spots that offer incredible scenic drives and hikes, where the crisp mountain air and vibrant foliage create a truly immersive autumn atmosphere. What makes this area so special is the dramatic contrast between the colorful leaves and the towering peaks, all just minutes from the city! So here is where you need to go…
Just a short drive from Park City, this byway takes you through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and around Mount Timpanogos. The loop is famous for its vibrant display of fall colors, with a mix of aspens, maples, and oaks. The road also passes by Sundance Mountain Resort, where you can stop for a hike or a meal.
Just a short drive from downtown Salt Lake City, Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of the most popular spots for fall colors. The canyon is filled with aspens, maples, and oaks that turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The scenic drive up the canyon is stunning, and there are plenty of hiking trails, such as the Lake Blanche Trail, where you can immerse yourself in the fall scenery.
Neighboring Big Cottonwood, Little Cottonwood Canyon offers equally impressive fall colors. The road up to Alta and Snowbird ski resorts is lined with colorful foliage, and the trails, like the Albion Basin Trail, offer breathtaking views of the autumn landscape.
This scenic drive connects Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City and offers some of the most spectacular fall colors in the area. The winding road takes you through dense aspen groves that light up in brilliant gold during the fall, with several overlooks where you can stop and take in the views.
Millcreek Canyon is another nearby gem, perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape into nature. The canyon is filled with a mix of colorful trees, and the scenic drive or hikes like the Desolation Trail provide stunning views of the fall foliage.
Located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, just south of Salt Lake City, Mount Timpanogos is famous for its stunning fall colors. The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, which circles the mountain, is a must-see, with its vibrant mix of aspens and maples set against the backdrop of towering peaks.
Easily accessible from the city, Parley’s Canyon provides a quick escape to see the fall colors. The drive up I-80 towards Park City offers beautiful views, especially near the Lambs Canyon exit, where you can take a short detour to explore the colorful scenery.
Near the town of Midway, just a short drive from Park City, Wasatch Mountain State Park is a beautiful place to see fall colors. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and golf courses surrounded by vibrant foliage.
Jackson Hole is one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA, and it’s absolutely worth a visit in the autumn. The valley comes alive with golden aspen and cottonwood trees set against the stunning backdrop of the Teton mountains. Fall is a quieter time in Jackson Hole, so you can enjoy the beauty of the area without the crowds. It’s also a great season for spotting wildlife like elk, moose, and bison as they prepare for winter.
Jackson Hole offers a peaceful and breathtaking fall experience that’s hard to beat!
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA and my favorite time of year to visit. As autumn arrives, this region transforms into a vibrant landscape of golden yellows, fiery oranges, and deep reds. With the crowds thinning out, it’s the perfect time to explore the stunning scenery.
Here are the best spots to experience the breathtaking fall foliage near Jackson Hole.
This is the crown jewel for fall foliage. The park is blanketed with aspen groves that turn golden in the fall, contrasted against the rugged peaks of the Tetons. Popular spots include Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher’s Landing, and Jenny Lake. These areas provide iconic views with brilliant yellow and orange hues reflected in the water.
The drive along U.S. Highway 89 through Snake River Canyon is a breathtaking journey in the fall. The steep canyon walls are lined with cottonwoods and aspens that glow in vibrant autumn colors, creating a picturesque backdrop along the winding river.
Heading west out of Jackson, Teton Pass offers sweeping views of the valley below, dotted with colorful trees. The pass itself is surrounded by forests that turn into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a perfect spot for a scenic drive or hike.
This lesser-known area is a hidden gem for fall foliage. The Gros Ventre Range is home to vast aspen forests that blaze in golden tones during autumn. The quieter trails here offer a peaceful and immersive foliage experience.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, take Fall Creek Road. This scenic drive leads through the hills south of Jackson, with views of vibrant aspens and cottonwoods. It’s a less crowded option with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the colors.
Just a short drive from downtown Jackson, Curtis Canyon offers a quick escape into nature with stunning fall colors. The Curtis Canyon Overlook provides panoramic views of the Teton Range framed by vibrant foliage, making it a great spot for photography.
I may be bias, because we escape here for a few weeks every year but just south of Jackson Hole, Star Valley Ranch is a hidden gem for fall foliage. The area is surrounded by colorful aspens and cottonwoods, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat with stunning views of the changing leaves against the backdrop of the Wyoming mountains. If you really want to find really good local spots here make sure to check out my fall guide here.
Bainbridge Island in Washington may be one of the lesser-known spots to catch some fall foliage in the USA, but don’t sleep on it! This charming island is just a quick ferry ride away from Seattle and boasts a beautiful display of reds, oranges, and yellows during autumn. The mild weather means you can enjoy the island’s parks, trails, and cute neighborhoods without fighting through the summer crowds. And let’s not forget about the local cideries – indulge in seasonal flavors while soaking up the picturesque views.
Bainbridge Island’s serene vibes and vibrant landscapes make it one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the USA.
To be totally honest, we weren’t even expecting to find fall colors here, we just hopped on a ferry to explore because we heard it was a fun thing to do when in Seattle. But guess what?? We were pleasantly surprised when we saw glimpses of fall foliage on Bainbridge Island! The charming parks and gardens really show off with stunning autumn hues that perfectly complements the island’s chill vibe!
This 150-acre public garden is a must-visit in the fall. The Reserve’s Japanese Garden, in particular, offers stunning autumn colors with its vibrant maples and other deciduous trees. The well-maintained trails allow for leisurely walks through a variety of landscapes, all showcasing the brilliant fall foliage.
Located on the northeastern tip of the island, Fay Bainbridge Park offers a mix of beachside views and wooded areas. The trees here turn rich shades of yellow and orange, creating a picturesque setting against the backdrop of Puget Sound.
On the southern end of the island, Fort Ward Park features a mix of forested trails and waterfront views. The trees here turn a striking array of colors in the fall, making it a peaceful spot for walking and taking in the seasonal beauty.
This large wooded area in the heart of the island is perfect for hiking and enjoying the fall colors. The trails wind through dense forests of deciduous trees, which burst into a mix of warm autumn hues during the season.
Did you know St. Helens is actually home to HALLOWEENTOWN??? If you’re not a Disney Channel Original movie junkie, i’ve done you a favor and included a quick clip of the film here. And I know what you’re thinking, is this really one of the most underrated places in the USA?? So maybe this spot isn’t totally underrated and does get frequented by locals and tourists alike BUT the crowds are no where near what New England experiences come fall…so that has got to count right?
The town is transformed into a Halloween wonderland. Visitors can enjoy haunted houses, ghost tours, and the Pumpkin Lighting Ceremony in the town square. There are also themed events like costume contests, scarecrow contests, and trick-or-treating throughout the historic downtown. With its charming small-town vibe and spooky decor, Halloweentown offers a unique and festive way to celebrate the Halloween season!
The events and activities are subject to change every year, so you will want to check the calendar here before your visit.
My husband had a work trip in Chicago one year during the fall season, and we heard rumors Lake Geneva was quite beautiful so we decided to make a weekend out of it and check it out. And boy, were we happy we did!
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin transforms into a hidden gem during the fall season. It’s easy to see why it’s one of those underrated places to see fall colors in the USA. This quaint town, known for its vibrant autumn colors reflecting off the crystal-clear lake, serves as the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and leisurely drives. Embrace the cool, crisp air while partaking in fall festivals, savoring local food, and exploring the charming downtown.
To experience the best fall colors in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, there are several key spots that showcase the area’s vibrant autumn beauty. Whether you’re looking for scenic hikes, picturesque views, or peaceful lakeside strolls, these locations offer the perfect settings to enjoy the peak fall foliage.
This 21-mile path around the lake offers stunning views of the fall foliage. As you walk along the shore, you’ll pass by historic estates, colorful trees, and picturesque landscapes, all showcasing the vibrant autumn hues.
Located in downtown Lake Geneva, Riviera Beach provides a beautiful setting to enjoy the fall colors. The combination of the clear blue lake and the colorful trees along the shoreline makes for a perfect autumn scene.
Just south of Lake Geneva, this park offers wooded trails and open spaces that are ablaze with fall colors in October. It’s a great spot for hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the beauty of the season.
Located in nearby Williams Bay, the grounds of this historic observatory are surrounded by towering trees that put on a brilliant display of autumn colors. The combination of the observatory’s architecture and the surrounding foliage makes for a striking view.
Located in Hubertus, Wisconsin, this stunning basilica sits atop Holy Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape that make autumn colors really stand out. The fall foliage provides a colorful backdrop to the Basilica’s impressive Gothic architecture, making it the perfect fall destination.
My husband is a Michigan native and couldn’t stop gushing about how absolutely charming Mackinac Island is. So you can imagine my delight when I finally had the chance to see it for myself – and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Here’s the thing though, I didn’t actually visit in the fall BUT locals told me it’s a magical time of year to visit. Just google “fall in Mackinac Island” and you’ll see what I mean! It’s easily one of the more underrated places to see fall colors in the USA
Mackinac Island is one of the underrated places to see fall colors in the USA, offering an adorable storybook setting to experience autumn. With its car-free roads, charming landscapes, and historic sites, the island transforms into a vibrant scene of reds, oranges, and yellows as the season changes. Here are the best spots to take in the stunning fall foliage on Mackinac Island.
This natural limestone arch offers one of the most iconic views on Mackinac Island. From the top, you can see the brilliant fall colors surrounding Lake Huron, creating a stunning contrast between the vibrant foliage and the blue waters.
As the highest point on the island, Fort Holmes provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In the fall, the treetops are ablaze with reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a perfect spot for taking in the full spectrum of autumn colors.
The eight-mile loop around the island is an excellent way to enjoy the fall scenery. The road is lined with trees that turn vivid colors in the autumn, and you can take in the views while biking, walking, or riding in a horse-drawn carriage.
Covering over 80% of the island, this park is full of trails that wind through colorful forests and offer views of the island’s natural beauty. Trails like Tranquil Bluff and Point Lookout are particularly scenic during the fall season.
Ireland in December is a beautiful blend of rolling green hills and charming towns, but…
Of course, Italy is a hotspot all year round, but here’s the deal...most tourists tend…
Europe may be famous for its enchanting Christmas Markets, but many tend to overlook little…
Who says Scotland in November isn't magical? They clearly haven't experienced the enchantment of shoulder…
Everyone knows how cute and colorful Portugal is, but I didn't know it was going…
Wow, wow, wow!!! I can't believe it has taken me this long to discover this…