10 Breathtaking Fall Foliage Drives in the United States That Will Take Your Breath Away

In autumn, the changing of the leaves creates a harmonious convergence where roadways and natural beauty combine, turning the act of driving into a joyous experience that surpasses the importance of reaching one's destination.

Timing is crucial for the ideal autumn drive, considering when to go. For a higher likelihood of witnessing leaves in their vibrant hues of orange, red, purple, and gold at their pinnacle, refer to the US foliage predictor map. However, bear in mind that peak leaf-viewing time may coincide with peak traffic hours, so plan accordingly, particularly for weekends.

Regarding the destination, we present six remarkable scenic drives during the fall season, spread across the continental United States. Additionally, these routes offer an abundance of attractions and activities to explore whenever you decide to park your vehicle.

M-119, Michigan

M-119 is a scenic drive in the northwestern part of the Lower Peninsula in Michigan. It hugs Lake Michigan and is known as the "Tunnel of Trees."

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The Great Lakes offer stunning scenery, and Michigan boasts shorelines on three of them: Michigan, Huron, and Superior. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose. However, David Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, recommends M-119, a hidden gem in the northwest of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Affectionately referred to as the "Tunnel of Trees," this road starts just outside the town of Harbor Springs and stretches 21 miles (33.8 kilometers) north to Cross Village. It runs along the picturesque coast of Lake Michigan, showcasing some of the most vibrant autumn foliage in the state. Any traveler will be delighted by the beauty of this scenic drive.

Follow this map and turn the drive into a scenic loop of about 50 miles, or a one-hour and 15-minute drive.

Along the route or nearby:

- Thorne Swift Nature Preserve in Harbor Springs is a recommended spot for capturing stunning fall foliage photos, according to Travel Michigan.

- Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of the Good Hart General Store, which has maintained its charm since the early 1900s.

- Dare to conquer heights? Visit the pedestrian SkyBridge Michigan at Boyne Mountain Resort, spanning 1,200 feet (366 meters) in length and standing at a height of 118 feet. Located approximately 26 miles south of Harbor Springs.

- Experience the delights of the 44th Annual Apple Fest in Charlevoix, situated about 40 minutes southwest of Harbor Springs. This year, the festival will take place from October 13th to 15th.

- Discover more about the fascinating M-119 by delving into further details.

Salmon River Scenic Byway, Idaho

A line of golden aspens festoons a hillside in the Sawtooth Mountains in Stanley, Idaho, above Redfish Lake.

Anna Gorin/Moment RF/Getty Images

"Did I just spot a moose?" "Was that an elk?" These are the questions you and your fellow travelers may find yourselves asking along the Salmon River Scenic Byway, recommended by Laurie McConnell, Visit Idaho's senior specialist in tourism communications.

According to McConnell's email, this 161-mile byway traverses challenging and secluded terrain in the Lower 48, following the Salmon River as it winds through the untamed beauty of the Salmon and Challis national forests. It offers unmatched access to awe-inspiring outdoor adventures.

As for visuals, "Large stands of aspen show off with fall colors in burnt yellowy gold, but expect other trees to show off with red, orange, and caramel," she said.

Along the route or nearby:

- Discover the rich history and culture of the region at the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Educational Center. (According to McConnell, it's a must-visit destination.)

- Explore the ghost towns of Custer, Bayhorse, and Bonanza at Land of Yankee Fork State Park. Also, enjoy the Challis Hot Springs located on the banks of the Salmon River.

- Embrace the beauty of Redfish Lake, the largest lake in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. With opportunities for nature viewing, hiking, fishing, and even swimming for those brave enough to endure the cold water!

- For more information on the breathtaking Salmon River Scenic Byway, please click here.

Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway, Alabama

The Old Union Crossing Covered Bridge in Mentone, Alabama, has a rich history dating back to its original construction in 1863. In 1980, a rebuilt version of the bridge was constructed on top of the existing structure.

Don't be mistaken, the beauty of the Appalachian region does not fade away once you reach northern Georgia. In fact, this picturesque byway in the northeastern part of the Deep South state will pleasantly surprise you.

Stretching over 80 miles, this route is characterized by rolling hills and winding curves, but don't worry, it's not an intense or nerve-wracking drive. According to Jo Jo Terry, a digital marketing strategist at the Alabama Tourism Department, the northern section of the trail boasts vibrant fall colors, while the scenery remains stunning throughout the entire route.

Drivers will find lush vegetation, interesting geologic formations and quaint communities along the route.

Along the route or nearby:

- Cheaha State Park, located at the southern end of the byway, boasts Alabama's highest point and is renowned for its captivating panoramic views.

- DeSoto State Park, situated at the northern end of the byway, offers mesmerizing waterfalls and an array of activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching.

- Mentone, a thriving arts and crafts community just a short 10-minute drive from DeSoto State Park, is home to the delightful and enchanting "Wildflower Café," perfect for a memorable dining experience.

- The Little River Canyon National Preserve is home to one of the most expansive and deepest canyon and gorge systems in the eastern United States, as highlighted by the US National Park Service.

Discover more about the Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway by clicking here.

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Santuario de Chimayó in New Mexico is a lovely and historic stop along the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway.

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What sights await you on the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway?

Barker described the route as it meanders through desert badlands, showcasing stunning white geological formations and vibrant gold-drenched cottonwoods along the Rio Nambe. The journey continues through villages set against the picturesque backdrop of Carson National Forests, with its golden aspen groves and the lush evergreens that cover the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo peaks.

- Along the route or nearby:

- The Santuario de Chimayó, a 19th-century Catholic church, is a National Historic Landmark. Autumn is the ideal time to purchase Chimayó red chile, which is exclusively grown in the town of Chimayó.

- Eight Million Gods, a folk-art gallery located in Truchas, was once an 18th-century Hispanic settlement but has since transformed into an artist enclave.

- Don't miss the Truchas Overlook, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Quemado Valley and Truchas Peaks, according to Barker.

- Barker also mentioned that the High Road Art Trail provides a convenient way for visitors to find studios and galleries. The High Road Artisans Studio Tour will take place on September 16-17 and 23-24.

Find out more about the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway here.

Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway, Massachusetts

The Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway winds through autumn-colored Massachusetts.

Peter Tomyl, president of the Mohawk Trail Association - Regional Tourism Council, explains that Massachusetts and fall drives are a perfect match. The Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway, spanning 69 miles and traversing three counties in northwestern Massachusetts, offers a delightful experience during this season. Tomyl emphasizes that autumn is the ideal time to embark on this journey, as you will be mesmerized by the enchanting spectacle of vibrant orange, red, and yellow hues gracefully adorning the skyline as you glide through.

In an email, he stated that the duration of the drive depends on the number of stops visitors decide to make. He mentioned that the route encompasses picturesque hills adorned with verdant forests and includes climbs through the Berkshire Mountains. Furthermore, he highlighted that it traverses charming towns in Massachusetts, meandering past expansive farmlands, and showcasing an abundance of exceptional restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and historic landmarks.

Nearby attractions along the route include the renowned Hairpin Turn in North Adams, which is known as one of the most sought-after destinations in The Berkshires. It is particularly mesmerizing to visit at sunset, as it offers awe-inspiring panoramic views, according to Tomyl. Another notable attraction is the Mount Greylock State Reservation, which stands as the highest point in Massachusetts and provides expansive vistas. In the town of Adams, visitors can explore the Susan B Anthony Birthplace Museum, delving into the life and contributions of the illustrious advocate. Additionally, the Williams College Museum of Art in Williamstown boasts an impressive collection of over 15,000 artworks and offers free admission.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

For more information about the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway, please feel free to explore here. It is important to note that certain areas in Massachusetts have recently experienced significant rainfall and subsequent flooding. Therefore, it is advisable to stay updated with local forecasts and driving conditions before embarking on your journey.

Historic Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is great spot to pull over and reflect on days gone by.

The scenic route of the Blue Ridge Mountains spans 469 miles (755 kilometers), beginning in Virginia and extending southwest into North Carolina.

The parkway is accessible 24/7 for free, except when certain areas are closed due to weather or landslides. There are no billboards or businesses along the route, ensuring a clutter-free experience.

Top 10 National Park Sites:

1. Yellowstone National Park

2. Grand Canyon National Park

3. Yosemite National Park

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

5. Zion National Park

6. Rocky Mountain National Park

7. Acadia National Park

8. Glacier National Park

9. Olympic National Park

10. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

You dont have to tackle the whole thing unless you want a really big trip; just carve out a portion and drive that.

Along the route and nearby:

In Virginia, AAA recommends taking a break at Mabry Mill, located at milepost 176, where Ed Mabry and his wife, Lizzy, operated a corn grinding and lumber sawing business for thirty years. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Blue Ridge Music Center at milepost 213.

Traveling through North Carolina, get a glimpse into Cherokee life at the Oconaluftee Indian Village located at milepost 469.1. Additionally, you can explore Mount Mitchell State Park, the tallest peak east of the Mississippi, or visit the majestic Biltmore Estate, which is especially captivating during the autumn season.

For more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, click here.