Track when and where fall leaves will peak with our 2025 fall foliage map.
Wondering when and where to see the best fall colors in 2025? Our Fall Foliage Map tracks peak leaf season across the U.S., helping you plan the perfect autumn getaway. From New England to the Smoky Mountains, discover 21 stunning leaf-peeping destinations and tips for catching peak foliage at just the right time.
Fall Foliage Color Map
Below is an animated map showing the progression of fall colors. This map is based on hundreds of foliage reports from around the country. Of course, past results do not necessarily indicate what will happen this year, but they should give you a fairly good idea of how fall leaves typically progress. In this depiction, yellow marks the beginning of foliage season, orange and red are peak season, and brown is past peak.
When Do Fall Leaves Change Color?
Leaves can change their color from as early as mid-September all the way through early November. Typically, the second and third weeks of October are the peak times, but prime foliage schedules will shift depending on where you live and your local weather conditions.
- Foliage starts to change in the northern tier states out West and in the Midwest by late September. By October 4, the leaves in some areas will be past their prime.
- Much of New England, as well as the Pacific Northwest, will be at or near peak fall color by October 11.
- A little further south, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it looks like mid-October is your best bet.
Here are some of the best places to see fall foliage in the United States. Perhaps some of these destinations are near you! We welcome your tips on other great places to see fall’s colors. Please comment below.
| Location | State/Region | Estimated Peak Dates | Best Viewing Spots & Drives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acadia National Park | Maine | Mid–October | Cadillac Mountain, Park Loop Road |
| Ozark Mountains | Arkansas | Late October | Scenic Byway 7, Ozark National Forest |
| Adirondack Mountains | New York | Early October | High Peaks Scenic Byway, Lake Placid |
| Catskill Mountains | New York | Early to Mid–October | Kaaterskill Falls, Route 23A |
| Traverse City | Michigan | Mid–October | M-22 Scenic Drive, Sleeping Bear Dunes |
| Black Hills | South Dakota | Late September | Needles Highway, Spearfish Canyon |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | VA & NC | Late Sept.–Late Oct. | Milepost 355–469, Linn Cove Viaduct |
| Kancamagus Highway | New Hampshire | Early October | Sabbaday Falls, Hancock Overlook |
| Pere Marquette State Park | Illinois | Mid–October | Great River Road, park trails |
| Jackson & Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming | Late September | Oxbow Bend, Moose-Wilson Road |
| Connecticut River Valley | Connecticut | Mid–October | Essex Steam Train, river cruises |
| Logan Canyon Scenic Byway | Utah | Early October | Bear Lake Overlook, Tony Grove Lake |
| Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio | Mid–October | Brandywine Falls, Scenic Railroad |
| Buckhorn Lake State Park | Kentucky | Late October | Laurel Fork Creek, Park Overlook |
| Vogel State Park | Georgia | Late October | Blood Mountain, Lake Trahlyta |
| Door County | Wisconsin | Mid–October | Peninsula State Park, Highway 42 |
| Poconos | Pennsylvania | Mid–October | Bushkill Falls, Route 402 |
| Green Mountain Byway | Vermont | Early October | Stowe, Smugglers’ Notch |
| Gatlinburg & Smoky Mountains | Tennessee | Early Oct.–Early Nov. | Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap |
| The Berkshires | Massachusetts | Late Sept.–Mid–Oct. | Mohawk Trail, Mount Greylock |
| Taos | New Mexico | Late September | Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway |
What is Fall Foliage?
“Foliage” simply refers to the leaves of a tree or plant. “Fall,” of course, refers to the Autumnal Equinox when the day length shortens (marching toward the shortest day of the year: the Winter Solstice).
“Fall foliage” is the time when the leaves start changing colors from green to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. However, here are a couple of surprises:
- Those vivid leaf colors were hidden underneath the green all along! As sunlight decreases and cold increases, tree growth slows, and the production of green chlorophyll in leaves begins to slow, revealing fall leaves’ brilliant hues of yellow, orange, and red.
- Not all tree leaves change color—it’s the deciduous trees (oak, birch, beech) with broad leaves that show off those gorgeous reds, yellows, oranges, and even purples.
Want to read more about fall leaves? Check out this article: Why Do Leaves Change Color?
How Weather Affects Leaf Color
Another important part of leaf-peeping is knowing the right time to go! For the best experience, not only should leaves be near their peak colors, but the weather should be agreeable, too.
- Avoid rainy, windy days, when the leaves (and you) will be soggy. Strong winds in late fall can even result in prematurely bare trees, so keep that in mind while planning.
- Some say that a lightly overcast day actually improves the colors of the leaves, making them pop against the somber skies.
- Others prefer to bask in autumn’s brilliance under blue skies and full sun—and we can’t say we blame them!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is peak foliage in New England?
New England’s peak foliage typically occurs late September to mid-October, depending on the state. Northern Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire peak first, followed by Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
How long does peak foliage last?
Peak foliage usually lasts 7 to 10 days in a given location, but the exact window can shift due to temperature, rainfall, and wind.
What affects the timing of peak foliage?
Weather plays a huge role. Cool nights, sunny days, and moderate rainfall produce the most vibrant colors. Heavy rain, strong winds, or early frost can shorten the season.
Where is the best place to see fall foliage in the U.S.?
Some of the most popular leaf-peeping spots include:
- Kancamagus Highway (NH)
- Blue Ridge Parkway (VA & NC)
- Adirondacks (NY)
- Smoky Mountains (TN & NC)
- Acadia National Park (ME)
Can you predict peak foliage dates for my area?
Yes! Our 2025 Fall Foliage Map estimates peak dates for every U.S. region based on historical patterns. Check it before planning your trip for the most accurate timing.
Is fall foliage better in the morning or the afternoon?
For photography, morning light creates softer colors with less glare, while late afternoon light adds warmth and depth to red and orange hues.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy the fall colors. Share your leaf-peeping tips in the comments!
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