Where to see the top foliage mountains of New England 

Best Fall mountains
IN new england

Introduction

As summer transitions to autumn in New England, the landscape transforms with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that are a sight to behold. This guide highlights the best mountains in the region for optimal views of the stunning fall foliage. Whether you seek challenging hikes, serene campsites, or simply picture-perfect moments, these mountains have something for every autumn enthusiast. 

Bear Mountain, Salisbury, Connecticut

Rising majestically as Connecticut’s highest peak, Bear Mountain is a haven for foliage enthusiasts. Its expansive trails offer stunning views of the Litchfield Hills ablaze with vibrant autumnal colors. From the peak, witness a panorama of valleys blanketed in the vivid hues of fall foliage.

Bear Mountain Fall Foliage by Aretemetic. Licensed by CC 3.0

Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park hosts Cadillac Mountain, the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. During fall, this vantage point provides an unparalleled view of Maine’s coastal mountains adorned with a kaleidoscope of fall colors, making it a must-visit for leaf peeping.            

 

mountain foliage

Mount Greylock, Adams, Massachusetts

Crowning the Berkshires, Mount Greylock offers a mesmerizing display of New England leaf peeping. Explore the extensive trail system and ascend to the summit for a panoramic view of vibrant autumn foliage stretching across Massachusetts and beyond.

 

Mount Washington, Sargent's Purchase, New Hampshire

Standing tall as the highest peak in the Northeast, Mount Washington boasts a spellbinding foliage display. The cog railway or a scenic drive up the Auto Road provides a front-row seat to nature’s annual spectacle, with leaves ablaze in vivid hues.

 

mountain in distance

Diamond Hill State Park, Cumberland, Rhode Island

While technically a large hill and not a mountains, Diamond Hill State Park offers an intimate foliage experience, that, on a clear day, will allow you to see the Boston skyline. Stroll through the park’s trails and savor the autumn foliage, with shades of red and gold adorning the landscape.

Mount Mansfield, Underhill, Vermont

Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, is a leaf peeper’s paradise. Traverse the trails and witness the mountain’s slopes transformed into a vibrant canvas, offering an awe-inspiring display of New England mountain foliage.

 

mountains

Camel's Hump, Duxbury, Vermont

A beloved peak in the Green Mountains, Camel’s Hump provides a stunning panorama of Vermont’s fall foliage. Venture to the summit (the third highest in Vermont) and marvel at the sea of colors stretching across the Adirondacks and the White Mountains. 

mountain range

Smugglers' Notch, Jeffersonville, Vermont

 

This iconic mountain pass is renowned for its foliage, especially in the fall. Explore the winding roads and hiking trails, immersing yourself in the breathtaking display of vibrant autumnal hues.

 

mountain range at dusk

Stratton Mountain, Stratton, Vermont

Stratton Mountain captivates leaf peepers with its diverse forests, showcasing a stunning array of fall colors. Hike or take a scenic chairlift ride to revel in the breathtaking view of the surrounding foliage.

 

Killington Peak, Killington, Vermont

A visit to Killington Peak in the fall is a visual feast. Traverse the trails or opt for a gondola ride to absorb the breathtaking vistas of Vermont’s diverse fall foliage, a remarkable spectacle of nature’s artistry.

 

Conclusion

Embarking on a fall foliage journey through the mountains of New England is an unparalleled experience. Each mountain offers a unique canvas of colors, presenting an awe-inspiring spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re chasing the vibrant hues of red, orange, or yellow, these top mountains provide an enchanting backdrop for a remarkable fall foliage adventure in the heart of New England.

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PACIFIC FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Pacific

The Pacific Coast states provide a coastal foliage experience like no other. From the majestic Redwoods to the vibrant vineyards, it’s a region that combines natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the wine country of California, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, or Olympic National Park in Washington, the Pacific Coast states offer a captivating fusion of coastal charm and abundant fall colors. Here, you can witness the transition of seasons in a setting that’s both picturesque and culturally rich. This is where the allure of the coastline and the enchantment of autumn harmonize to create a one-of-a-kind foliage adventure.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early September to Mid-November

Sea Level: Late September to late November

Popular Destinations

Wine Country, California; Columbia River Gorge, Oregon; Olympic National Park, Washington

Mountain West FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Mountain West

The Mountain West region presents a breathtaking foliage experience with its rugged peaks and alpine landscapes. Witness the aspen groves turning vibrant shades of gold amid the mountainous terrain and throw in a hike, camp, or canoe for an extra dose of adventure. The Mountain West is a region that captures the essence of autumn’s majesty at its most grand and dramatic.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Late October

Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Aspen, Colorado; Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho

MIDWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Midwest

Explore tranquil lakes, rolling farmland, and charming small towns that come alive with autumn colors. From the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa, the Midwest’s natural beauty is complemented by the charm of its communities. This is a place where the autumn foliage showcases a quieter, yet no less enchanting, side of the season. It’s a region where you can escape the hustle and bustle, savor the crisp fall air, and embrace the simple joys of the changing seasons. 

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin; Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa

GREAT LAKES FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Great Lakes

The Great Lake states enchant leaf peepers with their unique combination of natural beauty, gorgeous lakes, and enchanting wilderness. This region is a paradise for those seeking an autumn adventure that seamlessly blends the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes with the enchanting allure of the wilderness. The striking contrast of autumn foliage against the backdrop of vast, sparkling waters creates a visual masterpiece that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Mid-October

Sea Level: Early October to Late November

Popular Destinations

Door County, Wisconsin; Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan; Hocking Hills, Ohio

Mid Atlantic FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why Mid Atlantic​

The vibrant colors of a Mid-Atlantic fall beautifully complement its historic charm, rugged wilderness, and coastal allure. With its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Mid-Atlantic region is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Late-October

Sea Level: Late October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Hudson Valley, New York; Eastern Shore, Maryland

SOUTHEAST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT​

Why the Southeast​

The Southeast combines stunning natural beauty with quintessential Southern hospitality. Journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, immerse yourself in the mystical allure of the Great Smoky Mountains that straddle Tennessee and North Carolina, or follow the Natchez Trace Parkway through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. From historic cities to breathtaking mountain landscapes the Southeastern US is where the charm and magic of autumn meet.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Late October to Late November

Popular Destinations

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia; Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina; Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama

NEW ENGLAND FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why New England​

New England is revered as the most reliable foliage destination region in the US, and with good reason. It boasts a rich history, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities to complement your foliage expedition.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation:
Late September to Early October

Sea Level:
Early to Mid-October

Popular Destinations

Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas

SOUTHWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Southwest

The Southwest region offers a foliage adventure like no other. It offers an untraditional foliage experience, highlighted by the rugged beauty of the desert, the striking colors of the canyons, and the mystical allure of its arid landscapes. This region provides a captivating contrast to the typical autumn scenes, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures and find yourself enveloped in the warm, earthy tones of fall.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Mid-October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Early November to Mid December

Popular Destinations

Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas