Here Are the Best Times and Places to View Maryland’s Fall Foliage in 2025

We have officially entered the swing of the fall season here in Maryland — the kids have returned to school and the sweltering weather is finally cooling off. Soon enough, the wind will grow chilly and crisp, the sky will take on that special blue quality, and perhaps most importantly, the leaves and needles on the trees will start to bronze and fall, creating some of the most spectacular natural beauty we can hope to experience. This also means it’s time for me to start obsessing over one of my favorite autumn traditions — viewing fall foliage in Maryland.

So, when and where can we view fall foliage around the state? For more than a decade, SmokyMountains.com has had a fall foliage prediction map available to those of us who like to keep tabs on the county-by-county leaf changes, and the map is incredibly useful if you’re a nature nut who’s trying to plan an excursion to see the magic of autumn saturate the skyline. Today, we’ve used it to map out some of the best places to visit if you’re hoping to enjoy this autumnal treat in the Old Line State, and what dates are currently predicted to give you the most bang for your buck.

1. Deep Creek Lake

Maryland’s westernmost county is usually the first to peak when it comes to the brilliant colors of the fall, making it a favorite among eager leaf peepers. Garret County is predicted to reach peak colors a full week before the rest of the state begins to follow suit (this year, towards the last couple of weeks in September), and what better way to take in the earliest foliage of the autumn than a stroll through the woods around Deep Creek Lake?

2. Catoctin Mountain Park

While Maryland has many incredible state parks to choose from, Catoctin Mountain Park offers one of the best views of the fall foliage you’re likely to get. You can enjoy the view on the lakeshore or venture up the Extended Loop Trail, which will bring you roughly 1,800 feet above the surrounding area for a grand panorama. The fall foliage on this Maryland trail provides an utterly breathtaking scene.

3. Frederick

Frederick is a great option if you’d prefer to stick a little closer to town while you gaze at the trees with wide-eyed wonder. The old town’s historic canal is a beautiful spot to amble about and take in all the sights and smells of the season. And while the fall foliage is incredible throughout town, exploring Frederick is a must.

4. Columbia

With bountiful walking paths and multiple lakefronts to paddle along, Columbia is an excellent place to get some recharging outdoor time beneath the gold and red canopy of the trees. There are also tons of chic restaurants where outdoor dining is a must! Discover why Columbia is one of the most scenic towns in Maryland this fall.

5. Cedarville State Forest

Southern Maryland is, of course, not left out of this foliage belt. Just outside of Waldorf, Cedarville State Forest is a remarkably serene place to visit for a swampy twist on the leaf-changing phenomenon. The milder climate makes it an ideal place if you’re the type who wants an escape from the autumn chill. Stop and marvel at the swamp surrounded by fall colors and hike along one of this state forest's trails. It's one of the best places to be this fall in Maryland.

6. Berlin

Moving across the Chesapeake to Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Berlin is a quaint beach town that peaks after the rest of the state’s leaves have begun to brown. If you’re looking for a colorful Halloween experience, look no further than here! It's also close to Assateague Island if you're looking for another gorgeous destination in Maryland this fall.

There is so much to take in when it comes to autumn beauty in Maryland. Check out this fall foliage road trip in Maryland if you’re priming the camera in anticipation.

Planning on doing some camping while you’re out and about, exploring the change in seasons? Check out Backcountry for deals on all the gear you’ll need!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own fall trip through Maryland using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.

Feature Image: Timothy Pohlhaus via Flickr