Top Fall Getaways for 2025: Where to See the Best Autumn Colors

Remember those giant piles of crunchy leaves your parents raked up, only for little you to gleefully jump right in? Yep, it’s that magical season again — Fall! This time of year can be a bit of a balancing act when it comes to planning your leaf-peeping adventure. Across the country, different forests paint the landscape in a vibrant mix of colors and scents, making every region’s fall unique. Whether you’re packing up the family SUV or revving your motorcycle, here are some of our top fall getaway picks for 2025.

1) Adams, Massachusetts

Mount Greylock stands tall at 3,491 feet as the highest point in Massachusetts. On clear days, you can take in views stretching up to 90 miles from the summit. The Mount Greylock State Reservation welcomes visitors year-round from dawn to dusk for daytime adventures. Overnight stays are available May through October at the Mount Greylock Campground, several backpacker shelters, and the historic Bascom Lodge on the summit.

What makes this spot special in fall? It sits at the crossroads of two forest zones — Central Hardwoods to the south, dominated by oaks, and Northern Hardwoods to the north, where sugar maples thrive. Combined with varying elevations and temperatures, this creates a breathtaking mosaic of reds, oranges, yellows, browns, and even the occasional deep purple.

2) Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Nestled near the mouth of the Piscataqua River, which forms the border between New Hampshire and Maine, Portsmouth is a charming city of about 21,000 residents. Nature lovers can explore the Urban Forestry Center’s Brooks Trail, a gentle 2.1-mile loop winding through pines, marshes, and open paths suitable for all experience levels.

While in town, don’t miss historic Strawbery Banke, the interactive Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, several beaches along the country’s shortest coastline, and the iconic Music Hall of Portsmouth for a dose of culture.

3) June Lake, California

If you’re looking to escape the crowds near Yosemite National Park, June Lake is a serene alternative. Fall’s cooler temps make it perfect for hiking and rock climbing, and hotel rates tend to drop as summer crowds head home.

This quaint mountain town radiates small-town charm, and paddling around the lake by kayak or boat offers stunning views of the surrounding fall foliage. Plan your visit for early October when the golden aspens put on their best show.

4) Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Head south to Gatlinburg, nestled inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park — America’s most visited national park. Famous for its rich biodiversity, ancient mountains, and deep Southern Appalachian culture, it’s a fall wonderland. Sourwood, dogwood, maple, sassafras, and birch trees start turning vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows by September and October. Timing varies yearly, so check live webcams for the best viewing windows.

After soaking in nature’s palette, explore downtown Gatlinburg with its craft breweries, take a thrill ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster, or ascend the Space Needle for panoramic 360-degree views. Don’t forget to bring along your Smoky Mountain National Park tee to match the adventure!

5) Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Whatever your outdoor passion — mountain biking, hiking, camping, fishing, or horseback riding — the Lake of the Ozarks region has you covered.

Despite the dramatic portrayal on Netflix’s Ozark, this area remains a pristine playground for nature lovers and adventurers. In fall, the landscape bursts into brilliant colors, making it a perfect destination for leaf hunters.

Explore the diverse terrain and soak up those colorful woods — you might even find yourself hugging a tree or two.