Top 14 Scenic Fall Foliage Drives You'll Love

If you're someone who appreciates the beauty of fall foliage, you'll be interested to know that the annual economic impact of fall foliage tourism in the United States is estimated to be around $3 billion.

But it's not just about the numbers; the experience of driving through scenic routes during fall can be truly mesmerizing. As you plan your next getaway, imagine yourself driving along winding roads, surrounded by vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold.

The Top 14 Scenic Fall Foliage Drives offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's stunning transformation. Whether you seek a leisurely drive or a picturesque adventure, these routes await your discovery.

New England Coastal Route

If you're looking for a picturesque and relaxing drive along the New England coast, the New England Coastal Route offers stunning views of the ocean and vibrant fall foliage. The route stretches from Connecticut to Maine, providing an ideal opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty. Along the way, you can visit iconic coastal lighthouses and enjoy lighthouse tours, immersing yourself in the maritime history of the area. These lighthouses not only offer historical insights but also provide breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

As you drive along the New England Coastal Route, don't miss the chance to stop at the picturesque beaches that dot the coastline. Take a leisurely stroll, breathe in the fresh sea air, and perhaps even have a picnic while admiring the scenic coastal views. The tranquility and beauty of these beaches make them perfect for a relaxing break during your drive.

In addition to natural beauty, the route also offers delightful culinary experiences. Make sure to indulge in fresh seafood stops along the way. From lobster shacks to seafood restaurants, you can savor the region's renowned seafood dishes while enjoying the coastal ambiance.

Blue Ridge Parkway

As you continue your exploration of scenic fall foliage drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway awaits with its breathtaking mountain vistas and winding roads through vibrant autumn landscapes. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Here's what you can expect:

• Breathtaking Views: The Blue Ridge Parkway treats you to an awe-inspiring display of fall foliage as the mountains come alive with vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The scenic overlooks provide panoramic views of the rolling hills blanketed in a tapestry of autumn colors.
• Winding Roads: As you traverse the Blue Ridge Parkway, the winding roads lead you through tunnels of trees adorned with fall foliage, creating a captivating canopy above the roadway. The gentle curves of the parkway offer a leisurely drive, allowing you to savor every moment of the picturesque journey.
• Historical Landmarks: Along the route, you'll encounter historical landmarks that offer insight into the cultural heritage of the region. From old farmsteads to preserved structures, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a gateway to the past, enriching your scenic drive with layers of history.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: The Blue Ridge Parkway is dotted with access points to hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas and overlooks. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a memorable trek through the colorful woodlands, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the fall foliage from a closer vantage point.

Columbia River Gorge

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge beckons with its stunning vistas and a tapestry of autumn colors, making it an ideal destination for a scenic fall foliage drive. As you embark on this breathtaking journey, be sure to explore the numerous hiking trails that wind through the gorge, offering unparalleled views of the vibrant fall foliage.

The region boasts an abundance of waterfalls, viewpoints, and scenic overlooks, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing season.

One of the most iconic trails in the area is the Multnomah Falls Loop, which leads you through a lush forest and past several stunning waterfalls, including the famous Multnomah Falls. The trail culminates in a picturesque viewpoint that showcases the colorful foliage and the cascading waters below.

For a more challenging hike, consider tackling the Hamilton Mountain Trail, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the gorge ablaze with autumn hues.

As you traverse the gorge, be sure to stop at the various viewpoints along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Vista House, perched atop Crown Point, offers a sweeping panorama of the gorge and the meandering Columbia River, framed by the rich colors of fall. Additionally, the Rowena Crest Viewpoint provides a stunning vantage point for capturing the beauty of the changing leaves against the backdrop of the river and the surrounding cliffs.

The Columbia River Gorge promises an unforgettable fall foliage drive, complete with picturesque hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring viewpoints.

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway

Your journey through the Columbia River Gorge now leads you to the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, where breathtaking fall foliage awaits around every curve of the road. As you embark on this scenic byway, you'll encounter the enchanted circle, a route surrounded by magical landscapes that seem to come alive with the vibrant hues of autumn. The byway is dotted with hidden gems for you to discover, adding an element of surprise to your journey.

• Golden Canopies: The aspen and cottonwood trees lining the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway create a mesmerizing golden canopy that dances in the gentle breeze, casting a warm glow over the road.
• Quaint Villages: Along the way, you'll stumble upon quaint villages nestled amidst the fall foliage, where charming cottages and local shops add to the picturesque atmosphere of the scenic byway.
• Mountain Peaks: Towering mountain peaks serve as a backdrop to the colorful spectacle, their rugged beauty contrasting with the softness of the autumn leaves, creating a scene of unparalleled natural artistry.
• Tranquil Lakes: Serene lakes mirror the kaleidoscope of colors, adding to the enchanting ambiance and providing perfect spots for pausing to take in the breathtaking scenery.

As you navigate the twists and turns of the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, be prepared to be captivated by the sheer beauty of the landscape, making this drive an unforgettable experience for any fall foliage enthusiast.

Great River Road

The Great River Road offers a captivating journey along the banks of the Mississippi River, showcasing stunning fall foliage and iconic river views. As you drive along this scenic route, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas from numerous scenic overlooks, allowing you to take in the vibrant colors of autumn as they paint the landscape. The Mississippi River, with its meandering path and majestic presence, provides a picturesque backdrop to your drive, enhancing the overall experience.

Along the Great River Road, you'll encounter historic towns that add a charming and nostalgic touch to your journey. These towns are perfect for a leisurely stop, allowing you to explore their rich heritage and immerse yourself in the fall ambiance. You'll also find riverfront restaurants where you can indulge in delicious meals while enjoying the serene beauty of the Mississippi River. The combination of delectable food and idyllic scenery creates a truly memorable dining experience.

As you continue your drive, be sure to make time for leisurely strolls through the historic towns, where you can discover unique shops, local art galleries, and perhaps even stumble upon seasonal festivals celebrating the autumn harvest. The Great River Road isn't just a scenic drive; it's a full sensory experience that allows you to fully embrace the beauty and culture of the region during the fall season.

San Juan Skyway

As you travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Great River Road, consider embarking on a new adventure along the captivating San Juan Skyway. This 236-mile loop takes you through some of the most stunning mountain views and historic towns in Colorado.

As you navigate the San Juan Skyway, you'll encounter:

• Colorful Foliage: The San Juan Skyway is a kaleidoscope of colors during the fall season. The vivid reds, oranges, and yellows of the aspen and oak trees paint the landscape, creating a breathtaking natural canvas.
• Winding Roads: Traverse along winding roads that hug the rugged mountainsides, offering exhilarating twists and turns that reveal new scenic vistas at every bend. The thrill of the journey is just as captivating as the destination.
• Mountain Views: Towering peaks and majestic mountains encompass the skyline, providing a stunning backdrop for your scenic drive. The San Juan Skyway offers numerous opportunities to pull over and take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views.
• Historic Towns: Along the route, you'll encounter charming historic towns like Durango, Telluride, and Ouray. These towns are steeped in mining history and exude an old-world charm that beckons you to explore their quaint streets and unique local shops.

Embarking on the San Juan Skyway promises an unforgettable adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of the season while navigating the captivating mountainous terrain and exploring the rich history of the towns along the way.

Kancamagus Highway

With its vibrant foliage and breathtaking vistas, the Kancamagus Highway offers a picturesque journey through the heart of the White Mountains. As you drive along this 34.5-mile scenic byway, be prepared to be awed by the stunning fall colors that paint the landscape in hues of red, orange, and gold. The Kancamagus Highway is renowned for its numerous scenic overlooks, providing you with ample opportunities to pull over and take in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and forests ablaze with autumnal splendor.

In addition to the stunning drive, the Kancamagus Highway also offers access to a variety of hiking trails, allowing you to immerse yourself even further in the beauty of the fall foliage. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the wilderness, where you'll be surrounded by the vibrant colors of the season as you trek through the forests and along the riverbanks. Whether you're an experienced hiker seeking a challenging ascent or a casual stroller looking for a leisurely walk, the Kancamagus Highway has a trail to suit every level of adventurer.

Upper Peninsula's Fall Colors Drive

Explore the vibrant fall foliage of the Upper Peninsula on a scenic drive that showcases nature's breathtaking autumn colors. As you journey through the Upper Peninsula, you'll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and golden hues, creating an unforgettable landscape for your fall photography. The drive offers numerous scenic overlooks where you can pause to capture the stunning beauty of the changing leaves.

• Crisp Air and Rustling Leaves: Feel the crisp autumn air as it fills your lungs, while the sound of rustling leaves provides the perfect soundtrack for your scenic drive.
• Vibrant Canopy of Colors: Watch as the vibrant canopy of colors unfolds before your eyes, painting the landscape with rich shades of red, yellow, and orange.
• Rugged Terrain and Waterways: Marvel at the rugged terrain and meandering waterways, which serve as the perfect backdrop for the stunning fall foliage.
• Quaint Towns and Charming Villages: Pass through quaint towns and charming villages, where the fall colors create a picturesque setting that feels straight out of a storybook.

As you make your way through the Upper Peninsula, be sure to keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking scenes that unfold at every turn. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to pull over at scenic overlooks, allowing you to capture the essence of fall in all its glory. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply a nature enthusiast, the Upper Peninsula's Fall Colors Drive promises an unforgettable journey through nature's annual masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Specific Restrictions or Rules for Driving on These Scenic Routes During the Fall Foliage Season?

When enjoying fall foliage drives, be aware of potential road closures and parking restrictions for leaf peeping and fall foliage photography. Check for any specific rules and restrictions for driving on these scenic routes during the fall foliage season.

What Are Some Lesser-Known Attractions or Stops Along These Scenic Drives That Are Worth Checking Out?

When exploring these scenic drives, don't miss the hidden gems and local delicacies off the beaten path. Look out for lesser-known photography spots that offer unique perspectives of the fall foliage.

Are There Any Recommended Accommodations or Dining Options Along These Routes That Offer Great Views of the Fall Foliage?

You'll find fantastic accommodation options and dining recommendations along these routes, offering stunning views of fall foliage. Scenic overlooks and picnic spots are perfect for enjoying the vibrant colors of autumn while indulging in delicious meals.

Are There Any Specific Safety Tips or Precautions to Keep in Mind While Driving on These Scenic Routes During the Fall Season?

When driving on scenic fall foliage routes, keep in mind safety precautions and driving tips. Be aware of changing weather conditions and potential road hazards such as wet leaves or reduced visibility. Stay vigilant and enjoy the beautiful views.

Can You Recommend Any Specific Times of Day or Days of the Week That Are Best for Enjoying the Fall Foliage on These Scenic Drives?

For enjoying the fall foliage on scenic drives, the best times are early morning or late afternoon. Weekdays are less crowded. Consider peak times, weather, and photography tips. Look out for fall festivals, wildlife, landmarks, and local folklore.

Conclusion

So grab your camera, hit the road, and experience the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage on these scenic drives.

You'll be amazed by the vibrant colors and stunning landscapes that make autumn the most picturesque time of year.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to create unforgettable memories and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the season.

Happy driving!