5 Fall Foliage Hikes for the Best Leaf Peeping

When nature comes to life with color. 

5 Fall Foliage Hikes for the Best Leaf Peeping

Leaf lovers rejoice when fall approaches. Not only does the change in season mean cooler weather, but it’s also your chance to hike through rich reds, oranges, and yellows of the vibrant fall foliage. From Vermont to North Carolina, opportunities abound for some excellent leaf peeping across the country. Here are our favorite foliage hikes in the U.S. 

Peak Foliage Hiking, Burlington, VT

To experience Vermont's sweeping and vibrant autumn vistas, book a tour with Boundless Journeys. Boundless' Peak Foliage Hiking tour brings guests through quaint New England towns like Woodstock, Quechee, and Stowe for a big multi-day journey of blazing oranges, reds, and yellows. Typically peaking from September to mid-October, Vermont's brilliant maple forests are truly a sight to behold.

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Smoky Mountains in a Day, Asheville, NC

Asheville’s little slice of the Blue Ridge Mountains is largely underrated, and that’s a good thing if you want to escape the bulk of the tourists. This Wildland Trekking tour is offered year-round, but the fall is ideal for leaf peeping as you travel along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, hike to Clingmans Dome, and tour some of the area’s historic sites.

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New Life Hiking Spa, Killington, VT

This hiker’s retreat is best enjoyed during the fall when temperatures are cooler and leaves are vibrant. Visitors are surrounded by the Vermont mountains and can embark on group hikes that take you to some of Vermont’s highest peaks, through the countryside, and along parts of the Appalachian Trail.

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North Conway, NH

This hiker’s hangout is one of the best spots for leaf peeping in the country! Take the Conway Scenic Railway for a leisurely look at the scenery, or head to Echo Lake State Park for miles of hiking trails through the colorful forests.

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Shenandoah National Park, Charlottesville, VA

The majestic Shenandoah Valley becomes ablaze with red, orange, and yellow during the fall. Take a self-guided hike along the Crescent Overlook, Stony Man Summit, or Little Stony Man Overlook for sweeping views. 

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Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.