The Best Times and Places to View Fall Foliage Across America in 2025

We’re quickly approaching my favorite time of year, leaf-peeping season. In just a few weeks, we will see the beautiful kaleidoscope of colors drape across the majority of the country. I’m sure you’re just as ready to see cooler temperatures as I am, but when do the leaves change color in the U.S. for 2025? Fall in the United States varies greatly depending on the part of the country you’re in.

According to the Smoky Mountain fall foliage map, parts of the United States will begin to see the leaves change color by mid-September. As the weeks go by, more and more states will start to see those beautiful fall colors shine. This is especially true for areas running along the Canadian border. As the weeks progress, the fall foliage colors will spread further south.

Mid-September: Fall Foliage in the Plains and PNW

The middle of September will be a good starting point for areas in northern Idaho, Montana, the Dakotas, and even over to Minnesota. Due to a subpar growing season in the spring, these regions might not display the vibrant colors they're known for. We might be in for duller colors than usual!

Glacier National Park should be near peak colors around the end of September, so if you’re planning a road trip, make a mental note for this week. The 2025 USA fall foliage map estimates that the majority of the Pacific Northwest should be near peak by early October.

Early October: Fall Foliage in New England

Early October is when fall in the U.S. really shows off, especially in New England. New England is known for its epic fall foliage, and folks come from all over the world to witness it. Take a road trip through Vermont, hop on a fall foliage train ride, or make your way through some of the best state parks in Maine to see the fall foliage. Early to mid-October is the best time to go leaf peeping in New England.

Mid-October: Fall Foliage Peaks in the Appalachians/Smoky Mountains

As we make our way further south, we’ll begin to see the Blue Ridge’s fall foliage. Mark your calendars for early to mid-October to witness the stunning fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll want to plan a road trip for this one, and there are plenty of viewpoints along the highway where you can pull off and admire the views, or tackle one of the many scenic hiking trails.

Mid-October: Autumn Colors Arrive in the West

By mid-October, the majority of the United States will be experiencing various stages of partial or peak fall foliage, especially in the West. The western side of America is one of the most underrated places to see the fall foliage, making it perfect for folks who want to lose the crowds. Millcreek Canyon in Utah is extraordinary during this time of year!

Early November: Fall Foliage Comes Alive in The South

As we move toward the end of October and into early November, the South finally joins the party. Arkansas, in particular, really shines during the fall! Head over to the Natural State and get lost in the Ouachita Mountains, or spend a day exploring Mount Magazine State Park and drive up to the highest point in Arkansas to get a bird’s eye view.

Regretfully, the Gulf Coast states don't have the types of trees to show off any iconic fall foliage, so the closer you get to the Gulf, the less you'll see anything. The northern parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama do have some fall colors, though it's not nearly as spectacular as our friends in the North or West.

Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the US

While the Northeast is most commonly associated with vibrant fall foliage, there are still plenty of places to enjoy stunning seasonal views across the country, including these 20 destinations to see the most beautiful fall foliage in the U.S. Of course, one cold snap and a hard breeze could change everything! Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and flexibility is key to leaf-peeping. Fall colors depend on a few different factors that need to align to get those vibrant colors, and one element that will dull those colors is warm, humid nights in the fall. Crisp, cold (but not freezing) nights are a key component in fall foliage.

Plan a Fall Foliage Road Trip

As you can see, fall in the U.S. is different for every state! To get the most out of your leaf-peeping experience, try to be as flexible as possible. One cold front could move the timeline forward by a week or two, so you'll want your calendar to be as open as possible, allowing you to jump in the car and enjoy the views.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. Happy leaf peeping!