Fall is a favorite time of year for many because of the brisk air, seasonal fun, and the endless amounts of fall foliage to view. Bright reds, yellows, and oranges fill the trees just as the leaves begin to fall. There are so many wonderful destinations to view fall foliage, but it can be hard to know exactly where to go. Luckily, we are breaking down a few of our favorites for you. So grab your pumpkin spice latte, and get ready to hit the road in your RV this autumn.
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Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is an increasingly popular place to take in views of the stunning fall colors autumn brings. The colors peak during late October, so there’s still time to plan your trip! The parkway is long, running from Virginia to North Carolina, so you’re sure to find the perfect viewing locations along your route. October is one of the busiest months to visit, and with extra cars on the road, it’s important to drive slowly and keep your eyes on the road (until you’re ready to pull over to take in the breathtaking sights).
Must-do: We highly recommend taking a pit stop at Cascade Falls at Milepost 271.9. This waterfall is truly stunning and is located in E. B. Jeffress Park. To get to the falls you’ll need to take a short hike (just over a mile) and there you will find beautiful views and scenic overlooks along the way.
Route 100, Vermont
Route 100 can be found in the center of Vermont and runs over 200 miles from north to south along the Green Mountains (although they are yellow, red, and orange in the fall). This route goes by many nicknames, one of which is “The Skier’s Highway” because it connects to a variety of popular skiing destinations. Many also say it’s one of the most scenic drives in New England and the views are top-notch in the fall. There are plenty of interesting places and fun towns to stop and stretch your legs when you’re taking your fall foliage tour.
Must-do: Don’t miss Moss Glen Falls in Granville along this route. The 30-ft. waterfall is truly stunning and you can even see it from your RV if you don’t want to step outside (although we encourage you to!) If you have a craving for sweets along your route, you are in luck! One of the most popular destinations along Route 100 is the Ben and Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. Be sure to check it out if you pass by and let us know your favorite flavor.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is located in Maine and is referred to as the crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. This park encompasses more than 40,000 acres of land and is the oldest park east of the Mississippi River. Acadia National Park is quintessential Maine and it’s even more striking in the fall months. The park is lined by miles of jagged coastline, lighthouses, and stunning trees. There are ocean views for as far as the eye can see and the weather in Maine during fall is perfect for hiking and other activities.
Must-do: Thunder Hole is one of the parks most popular attractions that we recommend checking out. When the tides are just right, the surf rushes into a narrow cavern and forces out air from beneath the cliffs, creating a thunderous sound.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of the top destinations in Colorado to take in views of the fall colors. The golden yellow Aspen Trees are stunning and there are a variety of places to take in the scenic views. But we suggest checking out the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. This open area of land boasts many hiking trails and is one of the most photographed places in Aspen. There are incredible views of Crater Lake and Maroon Lake where the colorful trees mirror off of the clear water.
Must-do: While you’re in the area, we recommend visiting Ashcroft. Ashcroft is a scenic, abandoned mining town just South of Aspen. It may seem spooky to some, but the views are stunning – don’t forget your camera!
The Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri rounds out our list of top destinations for fall foliage. The leaves truly show off their vibrance in mid-to-late October and they are not to be missed. The weather starts to get chilly this time of year but is nothing like Missouri’s colder winter months. There are plenty of places to take a boat out to see the beautiful fall colors on the water as opposed to land.
Must-do: Once you’ve seen your fill of fall foliage, check out some of the most popular caves at the Lake. We recommend taking a trip to Bridal Cave where you’ll see epic rock formations and another underground lake.
Are you ready to hit the road and take in all of the fall colors this season? We hope these destinations have inspired you to take a trip of your own this autumn. Have you been to any of these destinations? Which was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
