Top 10 Scenic Drives for a Fall Road Trip

As autumn blankets America in shades of red, orange, and yellow, the country’s scenic roads come alive with color and crisp air. These drives, with hidden trails and charming harvest festivals, offer an unforgettable way to experience the season.

This article explores scenic routes where you can enjoy fall's vibrant colors and experience the unique charm of the season.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway - Exploring the Southern Appalachians

Start in Cherokee, North Carolina, where mist often drapes the Smoky Mountains, setting a dramatic tone for your drive.

Head north to Waterrock Knob, where a short walk from the parking area gives you sweeping views of ridges draped in burgundy and gold. The mix of mountain ash and sugar maples makes this viewpoint particularly striking.

Next, make a stop at Graveyard Fields. This unique landscape, dotted with stumps resembling gravestones, is easy to see from the parking area.

For a quick stretch, a short path leads to overlooks of Lower and Upper Falls, where golden birch and oak trees frame the rushing water against dark rock—a fantastic spot for photos.

Continue to Grandfather Mountain, where you can walk a few steps to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge. This spot provides wide, unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks without a lengthy hike.

The Linn Cove Viaduct, a highlight of the drive, elegantly curves around the mountainside. You can enjoy stunning views of blooming rhododendrons and azaleas below as you drive along this engineering marvel.

Entering Virginia, the scenery shifts to rolling hills scattered with sugar maples and beeches. Stop at Mabry Mill, an iconic spot where the old water wheel is beautifully framed by goldenrod and sumac—perfect for easy photos from the roadside.

Local Tip: Stop at Floyd Country Store for live bluegrass music and homemade fudge. It’s a local favorite and a taste of Appalachian culture.

Further along, take in the wide views at the Peaks of Otter without a strenuous hike. The visitor area offers beautiful vistas, especially in fall when chestnut oaks and hickories paint the landscape in warm amber tones.

Conclude your journey at Rockfish Gap, where you can look out over the Shenandoah Valley, stretching in a patchwork of green and brown—a fitting end to your scenic drive.

Want a preview of this drive? You can see that here:

Another great route to consider is the Beartooth Highway, known for its high-altitude alpine landscapes and rugged beauty near Yellowstone.

2. Route 100 - Vermont’s Classic New England Drive

Start in Wilmington, where classic New England architecture lines the streets. In fall, sugar maples and oaks add vibrant reds and oranges, creating a charming atmosphere as you drive through town.

Local Tip: Begin your day with a Vermont breakfast at Dot’s Restaurant—try the maple-glazed bacon and apple pancakes.

Continue north to Weston’s Vermont Country Store. It’s famous for its nostalgic goods and local cheeses, all set against honey locusts and crimson maples. It’s a great spot to pick up some local treats and enjoy the scenery.

Make a quick stop in Londonderry for a cider donut at Grandma Miller's, a favorite that’s perfect for a sweet snack on the go.

As you drive further north, stop briefly at Moss Glen Falls in Granville. This spot is known for its beautiful waterfall framed by golden birch and beech leaves. It’s a scenic view that doesn’t require a hike to appreciate.

Head to Plymouth Notch, the historic home of President Calvin Coolidge. Here, the village streets are lined with elm and oak trees, and you can enjoy the fall colors while driving through.

Local Tip: Stay at Kedron Valley Inn in Woodstock. The inn offers a cozy stay surrounded by fall colors, perfect for an overnight stop.

Drive through the Mad River Valley, where red barns, rolling hills, and mixed hardwood forests give you that quintessential Vermont experience.

Stop at the Mad River Glass Gallery to see local art that captures the essence of the area’s colorful landscape.

Toward the end, drive up the Mount Mansfield Toll Road in Stowe. This road takes you to Vermont's highest peak, providing sweeping views of the colorful trees below without leaving your car.

Finish your drive at Lake Memphremagog near Newport, where the reflections of willows and aspens on the calm water offer a serene end to the route.

New England’s charm goes beyond just Route 100—explore more fall foliage trips in New England that showcase the region’s classic autumn beauty.

Start your trip in West Glacier, where tall red cedars and hemlocks create a cool, shaded entrance into the park.

As you drive along the shores of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park, you’ll see golden tamarack trees reflecting on the clear water, creating a stunning mirror-like effect.

Local Tip: Stop at Eddie's Cafe in Apgar Village near Lake McDonald to enjoy a slice of huckleberry pie while soaking in the lakeside views.

Continue your drive up to Logan Pass, the highest point accessible by car. The scenery changes dramatically here, with meadows filled with red bearberry, golden larch, and deep purple asters.

This high-altitude spot provides expansive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Next, head to the Hidden Lake Overlook, where you can take in the sweeping view of snow-capped peaks rising above colorful meadows. This overlook offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the park, especially in fall.

Local Tip: For a more peaceful stay away from the crowds, consider lodging at the Granite Park Chalet, which offers rustic accommodations.

As you descend toward St. Mary, the landscape opens up to reveal wide valleys shaped by ancient glaciers.

Make sure to stop at Big Bend, a spot that offers incredible views of U-shaped valleys lined with golden aspen trees contrasting against the rocky mountains.

The Wild Goose Island Overlook is another must-see. Here, you’ll find a small, tree-covered island sitting in the middle of St. Mary Lake, framed by towering peaks.

It's a picturesque spot that's perfect for photos and offers one of the most iconic views in Glacier National Park.

If you’re looking for more rugged landscapes, check out these scenic drives in Alaska that offer unparalleled mountain and glacier views.

4. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway - Waterfalls & Orchards

Begin your drive in Troutdale and head toward the Vista House at Crown Point. This spot offers sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, where hills are painted in reds and golds from vine maples and bigleaf maples.

The view changes beautifully with the light throughout the day, making it a great stop for photos.

A bit further east, you’ll come across Latourell Falls, which cascades over basalt cliffs covered in yellow lichen. The bright fall colors add a stunning contrast to the dark rocks, creating a unique and memorable sight.

Local Tip: Stop by Tad's Chicken 'n Dumplins near Troutdale for some homestyle comfort food while enjoying views of the Sandy River.

Continue driving through the Central Gorge and make a stop at Bonneville Dam. Here, you can watch salmon navigating the fish ladders—a fascinating experience, especially during the fall migration.

Next, visit Hood River, a lively town known for its charming orchards and local eateries.

The Hood River Valley Fruit Loop offers a scenic drive through farmlands where you can pick apples and pears or enjoy local treats like fruit ciders, jams, and baked goods, all set against views of Mount Hood.

Local Tip: Sample a variety of fresh snacks at the farm stands around Hood River while soaking in views of the Columbia River Gorge.

As you continue east, the landscape transforms into golden grasslands. The Mosier Twin Tunnels provide a scenic drive with framed views of the Columbia River and towering basalt cliffs, making it a unique spot for photos.

End your journey at the Rowena Crest Viewpoint, where the river winds through hills that glow golden at sunset—perfect for capturing the beauty of the Gorge.

Nearby, The Dalles offers a taste of history with its museums and old-town charm, providing a great end to your scenic drive.

For travelers looking to capture the perfect autumn shot, these national parks offer some of the most scenic photography spots in the U.S.

5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway - Alpine Lakes & Volcanic Vistas

Start your journey in Bend, Oregon, a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. As you travel west on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, the road quickly climbs into the Cascade Range, offering a backdrop of towering peaks and dense forests.

Early on, you'll reach Sparks Lake, where calm waters reflect the golden aspens and red maples, with Mount Bachelor standing majestically in the background.

This is a perfect spot to pull over and capture the beauty of the lake against the rugged mountain.

Local Tip: Grab a huckleberry scone from Sparrow Bakery in Bend for a tasty treat on the go—an ideal start to a cool, crisp morning in the mountains.

As you continue along the byway, you'll pass several serene alpine lakes. Devils Lake stands out with its bright turquoise waters, surrounded by hemlocks and cedars that turn gold in the fall.

This is an ideal place for a quick stop to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or have a picnic by the shore.

Farther along, Todd Lake offers a scenic vista, where the waters reflect the vibrant fall colors against the rugged backdrop of Broken Top Mountain. The contrast between the clear lake and the golden hues of the trees makes it a favorite for photographers.

Local Tip: For a spot to relax, stop at Hosmer Lake. The crystal-clear waters mirror the golden aspens along the banks, providing an idyllic setting for photos or a quiet break.

Heading south from Devils Lake, the road brings you closer to Mount Bachelor, where snow-capped peaks tower above the dark green pine forests.

Consider a scenic stop or take the chairlift up the mountain to take in sweeping views of the fall landscape.

End your drive at Elk Lake, a calm destination surrounded by deep forests that burst into vibrant shades of orange, gold, and red during the autumn months. It's a perfect place to unwind and appreciate the beauty of Oregon's fall foliage.

For a unique coastal experience, consider exploring Florida’s tree tunnel, where canopies of live oaks create a stunning natural corridor.

6. Newfound Gap Road - The Great Smoky Mountains Fall Drive

Start your journey in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as you enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The road winds through vibrant forests filled with red maples, yellow tulip poplars, and orange hickories, creating a colorful canopy over the roadway.

Make an early stop at Chimneys Picnic Area by the Little Pigeon River. Here, the bright leaves reflect on the flowing water, creating a captivating, moving display of fall colors.

Local Tip: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant in Sevierville. Their apple fritters and cider are a perfect start for your drive.

As you ascend to Newfound Gap Overlook, the highest point on this road at 5,046 feet, the scenery opens up.

From here, you can enjoy wide, sweeping views of rolling mountains layered in bright gold and deep reds. On clear days, visibility can stretch up to 50 miles, making it a memorable stop for panoramic photos.

Local Tip: For those interested in a short break, Newfound Gap is a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Consider a side trip to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Smokies at 6,643 feet. The drive up provides stunning views, and once at the top, the valleys below display a patchwork of fall colors from sugar maples, birches, and oaks.

The views are especially stunning at sunrise when the mist rises over the valleys.

As you continue down toward Cherokee, North Carolina, the scenery transforms into rolling fields and open meadows.

Stop by Mingus Mill, a historic gristmill from 1886, beautifully set against a backdrop of colorful hardwoods and a gently flowing creek. It’s a picturesque location that brings history and nature together.

Further along, the Oconaluftee Valley Overlook provides a serene spot to catch the sunset. As the sun dips, the golden light illuminates the reds and oranges along the ridges, creating a perfect end to your scenic drive.

Want to preview this drive? Relax and watch here:

For those dreaming of an epic coast-to-coast adventure, explore our guide on driving from New York City to San Francisco, hitting iconic sights along the way.

7. Skyline Drive - Fall Wonders of Shenandoah National Park

Start your journey in Front Royal, the northern gateway of Skyline Drive. Your first stop is the Shenandoah Valley Overlook, where you can take in sweeping views of the valley below.

Fields stretch out in a patchwork of colors, framed by the reds of sugar maples and the yellows of tulip poplars. The overlook provides a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains rolling off into the distance.

Local Tip: Make a quick detour to the Apple House in Linden, just off Skyline Drive, to pick up fresh apple cider donuts and apple butter.

As you continue along Skyline Drive, you’ll find a series of 75 overlooks, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Hogback Overlook is the highest point on the drive, providing a panoramic view of hills covered in a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves—a classic fall scene not to be missed.

Further along, you can stop at Dark Hollow Falls Overlook, where you can see the waterfall cascading down amidst bright red maples and white oaks.

This spot is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves add a vibrant backdrop to the flowing water.

For a peaceful experience, stop at Skyland Resort, the highest point on Skyline Drive. Enjoy their famous Shenandoah Apple Cake while gazing over the valley filled with the reds of dogwoods and the greens of pine forests.

The resort's location offers some of the best views of the fall colors and the rolling landscape below.

Nearby, the Little Stony Man Cliffs provide another dramatic viewpoint, especially at sunset when the mountains are bathed in golden light.

This spot is accessible with a short walk, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the Shenandoah Valley.

8. Kancamagus Highway - New Hampshire’s Scenic Autumn Route

Start your drive in Conway at the Albany Covered Bridge, which spans the Swift River.

This spot, surrounded by bright red maples and golden birches, is perfect for a classic New England photo, especially in the early morning when the light makes the colors pop.

Lower Falls along the Swift River is a serene spot where golden birch leaves reflect in the calm water, creating a tranquil scene that’s easily accessible for visitors.

Continue to the Russell-Colbath Historic Site, where you can step back in time and see 19th-century life, framed by colorful maples and beeches.

Local Tip: Stop at Polly's Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill for a hearty breakfast of pancakes topped with pure New Hampshire maple syrup.

As you make your way to Lincoln, the road winds through forests and past rivers, with plenty of pull-off spots to take in the vibrant fall colors. In Lincoln, enjoy local cafes serving warm apple cider donuts and other fall treats.

The streets here are lined with sugar maples and white ash trees, providing a cozy and colorful end to your leaf-peeping trip.

If you’re seeking a quieter fall foliage experience, discover these hidden gem destinations across the U.S. that offer stunning autumn views without the crowds.

9. Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway - High Desert Fall Colors

Start your drive in Santa Fe, known for its adobe buildings and lively arts scene.

Head north on Bishop's Lodge Road, where the landscape transitions from piñon-juniper shrubs to thick groves of aspens that turn bright yellow in the fall. The contrast of dark green pines against the deep blue sky creates a beautiful backdrop.

Local Tip: Start your day with blue corn pancakes at Tia Sophia’s in Santa Fe, a local favorite. Bring along a thermos of piñon coffee to enjoy on the road.

As you continue toward Hyde Memorial State Park, the road offers sweeping views of golden aspen groves set against the backdrop of the Tesuque Valley.

The cool mountain air makes this a refreshing break from the warmer desert below, and there are several scenic picnic spots perfect for a peaceful rest.

Local Tip: Aspen Vista Trailhead has a good hike with great valley views and tall aspens that let you soak in the fall colors.

Drive further to Ski Santa Fe, where the road winds through hills covered with vibrant aspens.

At the top, the ski lift provides stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the wide desert below, blending bright yellow leaves with snow-capped peaks and fresh mountain air.

Local Tip: After your drive, relax at Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-style spa near Santa Fe, known for its peaceful setting and beautiful views.

If you enjoy scenic byways like these, Utah's Scenic Byway 12 offers stunning stops along its path through red rock country.

10. Mohawk Trail - A Journey Through Massachusetts’ History

Begin in Williamstown, a historic town in the Berkshire Hills, where sugar maples and oaks frame the old buildings of Williams College.

Drive up Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts, where the road winds through forests of birch, beech, and maple. At the summit, enjoy sweeping views across five states, with a landscape painted in reds, oranges, and yellows.

Local Tip: Visit The Clark Art Institute to mix art with nature; its surrounding trails provide lovely fall scenes.

Continue to North Adams, home to MASS MoCA, where old brick buildings create a striking contrast with the vibrant fall colors.

Nearby, Natural Bridge State Park offers a unique sight—the only natural white marble arch in North America—set among golden birch and green pines.

Drive east along the Mohawk Trail, where tall sugar maples and birches form a canopy of gold and red. This stretch is renowned for its stunning foliage.

Local Tip: Stop at Gould’s Sugar House for fresh maple goodies and a hearty New England breakfast.

In Shelburne Falls, the Bridge of Flowers bursts with late-blooming asters and chrysanthemums, adding bright colors against the backdrop of hills covered in maples and oaks.

Nearby, the Glacial Potholes along the Deerfield River offer a unique natural attraction in this charming village.

End your journey in Athol at the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park, where the Millers River reflects the bright reds and golds of surrounding trees.

Visit the Hail to the Sunrise Statue, a tribute to Native American heritage, set among sugar maples that glow in the afternoon sun.

Honorable Mentions - More Scenic Fall Drives to Explore

While the drives above capture some of America’s top fall views, there are many other scenic routes worth exploring. Here are a few hidden gems:

The Enchanted Circle, New Mexico: This 84-mile loop around Taos Ski Valley features views like Bobcat Pass, with Wheeler Peak framed by golden aspens. Visit Taos Pueblo for a cultural experience and enjoy local New Mexican dishes in Taos.

Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, Kansas: A peaceful 47-mile drive through tallgrass prairies. Stop at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve to explore native grasses, wildflowers, and historic ranches.

Great River Road, Wisconsin: A 250-mile route along the Mississippi River. Visit river towns like Alma and Pepin for festivals, scenic views, and historic sites set against river bluffs.

Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas: A 35-mile route through the Ozark National Forest with waterfalls like Kings River Falls and limestone bluffs.

Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee/North Carolina: A 43-mile route through vibrant mountain forests. Enjoy sweeping views from Santeetlah Overlook and explore the ancient trees of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.

Fall Road Trip Tips - Make the Most of Your Scenic Drive

Planning a fall road trip means being prepared for changing weather, stunning views, and local experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your journey:

• Dress in Layers: High-elevation roads like the Cherohala Skyway can have cool mornings and warm afternoons. Layers will keep you comfortable all day.
• Bring a Camera and Binoculars: These routes offer chances to spot wildlife, like mountain goats, and capture fall colors reflecting in lakes.
• Check Local Foliage Reports: Timing is key for seeing peak fall colors. Use tools like the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Map or local guides to plan your visit.
• Start Early for the Best Light: Morning light adds magic to drives like Skyline Drive in Virginia, where you can see the mist rising from the Shenandoah Valley.
• Prepare for Remote Areas: Some routes pass through quiet regions with little cell service. Download maps in advance or bring a GPS for offline navigation.
• Pack Essentials: For more isolated drives, like the Ozark Highlands Byway, bring snacks, water, and a thermos of hot cider or coffee to enjoy at scenic spots.

Plan Your Scenic Fall Adventure

America’s scenic byways let you see fall in all its beauty—from calm lakes and mountain views to colorful forests and friendly small towns.

Each drive gives you a chance to explore nature, history, and local flavors, helping you find your perfect fall escape.

Ready to hit the road? Choose your route, pack your must-haves, and immerse yourself in the magic of fall. Share your hidden gems with us—we'd love to explore them too.