Autumn is a popular time for nature-based travel for one reason: the weather cools, and the trees drop their leaves, making for a stunningly colorful display.
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But fall travel isn’t exactly the easiest to nail.
First, because forests around the country change colors at different times. The further north you are, the earlier the changes come. Second, because deciduous forests have more colorful displays compared to those with evergreen trees, meaning not all woodlands deliver on fall vibes. Lastly, some Americans must travel great distances to find truly scenic fall foliage. (Looking at you, desert dwellers.)
If you’re looking for advice on which areas are worth making a trip out of, Priceline has advice for you. These are the top ten scenic fall foliage areas around the United States for you to plan your autumn getaway.
Priceline’s top ten fall foliage areas in the country
Priceline analyzed hotel searches made by Americans last October. Their goal is to zero in on the locations that get more attention in terms of hotel stays. Unsurprisingly, most of the locations with high search volumes are located in New England—but not exclusively.
Here are the top ten spots based on hotel searches:
- Adirondacks, New York
- Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
- Aspen, Colorado
- Bretton Woods, Oregon
- Bucks County, Pennsylvania
- Bretton Woods, Maine
- Tunnel of Trees, Michigan
- North Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
- The Berkshires, Massachusetts
- Stowe, Vermont
If you’re planning a visit to any of these locations, remember to research when trees are most likely going to be changing colors. These are called fall foliage maps. Environmental factors like rainfall and temperature affect when trees drop their leaves for the incoming winter.
I also highly recommend checking out glamping spots for your next autumn getaway, especially if you’re traveling before the chill sets in. Glamping is more accessible than ever before—and it’s one of the most immersive ways to soak up that colorful fall foliage.
