Fall is the perfect time to hit the road and experience the stunning beauty of America’s landscapes. With crisp air, a kaleidoscope of colorful leaves, and fewer crowds than summer, autumn creates the ideal backdrop for memorable road trips. Seeing scenic routes allows you to connect with nature, uncover unique small towns, and enjoy the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. We're highlighting some of the most breathtaking fall road trip destinations across the United States. It also includes tips for making the most of your trip to have a safe, enjoyable, and budget-friendly experience. Winding along dramatic coastlines, weaving through dense forests, or cruising through mountain passes, these routes offer something for everyone.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Highlands. Stretching 469 miles between Virginia and North Carolina, this route is particularly vibrant in autumn when the surrounding forest bursts into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Highlights include stops at Mabry Mill, a historic watermill, and hiking trails like the Humpback Rocks. The drive through Linville Gorge, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East," provides breathtaking fall foliage views. Several overlooks along the parkway allow for photo opportunities, so make sure to have your camera ready.

2. Route 100, Vermont

Vermont’s Route 100 is a quintessential fall road trip destination. This 216-mile drive winds through charming small towns, rolling hills, and some of New England’s most vibrant foliage. Begin your trip in Wilmington and head north through picturesque communities like Weston and Stowe.

Every corner offers something special, from covered bridges to local farm stands selling fresh cider and homemade pies. Stops at attractions like the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury or the Quechee Gorge deliver both fun and unique experiences for travelers of all ages.

3. Pacific Coast Highway, California

California’s Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, may not have the traditional fall foliage, but its scenic views remain captivating. Stretching along the state’s coast from San Francisco to San Diego, this drive offers dramatic ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and peaceful beaches.

Fall provides cooler weather and fewer tourists compared to the summer rush, making it an ideal time for exploration. Highlights include Big Sur’s rugged landscapes, the historic Bixby Creek Bridge, and charming seaside towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea.

4. Great River Road, Mississippi River

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles across 10 states, but the portion between Minnesota and Illinois is particularly stunning in the fall. This route winds through forests, bluffs, and valleys lit up by vivid autumn colors.

Stops in river towns like Red Wing, Minnesota, and Galena, Illinois, add charm to the trip. Both towns are known for their historic downtowns, antique shops, and small eateries serving comforting Midwest cuisine. Make time to check out wildlife refuges or take a riverboat tour for a unique view of the Mississippi River.

5. The Texas Hill Country, Texas

The Texas Hill Country might not be the first place you think of for fall foliage, but it offers a unique experience. Located between Austin and San Antonio, this region features golden oak and fiery maple trees, rolling vineyards, and charming towns full of southern hospitality.

The scenic Highway 16 drive through Fredericksburg and Kerrville showcases the region’s natural beauty. Fall is also prime time for festivals, with events celebrating everything from wine to German heritage.

6. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

Nestled along the Oregon-Washington border, the Columbia River Gorge offers unmatched autumn beauty. This 80-mile stretch is lined with waterfalls, steep cliffs, and dense forests glowing with fall colors.

Begin your trip in Portland and head east along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Multnomah Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the area, is a must-see. For those who love outdoor activities, hiking trails like Eagle Creek offer fantastic views of the Gorge’s rich foliage.

7. Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, South Carolina

This 130-mile drive takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains’ foothills, showcasing vibrant colors in the heart of the South. The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway runs along Highway 11 and offers a mix of wooded countryside, mountain views, and peaceful farmlands.

Points of interest include Table Rock State Park, which offers hiking trails with amazing views, and roadside orchards where you can pick fresh apples. Fall festivals in nearby towns often feature live music, crafts, and regional specialties like boiled peanuts.

8. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

The Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado, offers some of the most dazzling fall scenery in the Rocky Mountains. Connecting the towns of Ouray and Silverton, this route is known for its steep cliffs, stunning views, and hairpin turns.

Lush aspen forests turn golden in autumn, contrasting beautifully with the region’s rugged peaks. Stop for scenic overlooks like Red Mountain Pass for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Tips for a Successful Fall Road Trip

  1. Plan Ahead: Popular routes and accommodations book quickly during the peak fall foliage season. Map your routes, reserve lodging, and check any travel restrictions beforehand.
  2. Pack Smart: Include essentials like layers for unpredictable weather, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a spare tire for unexpected delays.
  3. Travel Mid-Week: Roads and attractions are less crowded on weekdays compared to weekends during this time of year.
  4. Stay Flexible: Weather varies across regions, so be open to adjusting your plans based on real-time conditions.
  5. Bring a Camera: Scenic routes offer countless photo opportunities. Keeping a camera handy will help you capture stunning moments.