We’re coming into peak leaf-changing season, and for the jet set crowd, this opens up the skies to an awesome vacation opportunity! The fall color viewing season in North America begins in about mid-September, and in some places it can last until late November. Early in the fall season you’ll find the best views high in the mountains. As the seasons goes on, however, you’ll find the best colors near the coastlines.
No matter how busy you are, you can find an awesome autumn leaf-viewing location that fits into your schedule. We’ve made it easy for you with this helpful guide.
Late September
Queensbury, New York. Queensbury sits in the Adirondack mountain range, which has one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country. Colors are at their best early on, though. Catch the Adirondack Balloon Festival and watch nearly 100 hot air balloons take flight against the foliage around Lake George.
Early October
Columbia River Highway, Oregon. Once you fly in, you have the option of taking a car along the highway or flying from point-to-point. Either way, you’ll see some incredible fall colors along the highway. You’ll also be treated to the occasional waterfall just to sweeten the deal.
Late October
Waterloo Village, Stanhope, New Jersey. This year, autumn colors in New Jersey are predicted to arrive later in the season. See them in all their glory at Waterloo Village while also taking in the historical buildings and demonstrations. Allamuchy Mountain State Park is nearby for even more fall foliage viewing.
Early November
Leavenworth, Washington. Just down the road from Seattle, this coastal town has some of the best late-season fall foliage viewing in the country. The town has a strong Bavarian heritage that is celebrated though various festivals and beer gardens throughout the year, giving you something to do after you take in the scenery.
Take a break and fly to one of these amazing destinations this fall. Better yet, start early and see them all! Most of these locations celebrate their fall colors with great festivals and celebrations that your whole family can enjoy. You can find other leaf-viewing locations to enjoy by checking out The Weather Channel’s fall foliage guide.