One of the most wonderful marks of autumn is the sight of leaves changing color. Here are some scenic routes to drive, hike, and experience the colors of autumn.
New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway
This scenic, tree-lined drive spans 34.5-miles and allows travelers to tour some of the most picturesque spots the region has to offer. Beginning in Lincoln and ascending through the White Mountain National Forest, there’s no shortage of stunning overlooks and stops along “the Kanc,” so be prepared to put it in park. Be sure to stop at the C.L. Graham Overlook just below the summit of Kancamagus Pass, then picnic at Sabbaday Falls in Conway, a half-mile walk from the trail head, before heading north to Bretton Woods on 302. There, you’ll be treated to blazing views of Mount Washington.
Lake Winnipesaukee Loop in New Hampshire
Road trip around New Hampshire’s biggest lake and take in the waterfront views and bright autumn foliage. Seriously though, it’s a big lake–the loop amounts to 97 miles of premium New England sights. Stop for lunch and a stroll in any one of the quaint towns along the route, like Meredith, or even stop for some outdoor activities (think boating, fishing, and hiking).
Vermont’s Route 100
Vermont in the fall is like something straight out of a picture book. The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessential villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores your heart desires. Hike to the top of Mount Killington for some seriously impressive views before continuing to the 11-mile Green Mountain Byway. Spend a weekend in Stowe or Mad River Valley and indulge in farm-to-table dining, craft beer, and maybe even a trip through those beautiful autumn trees on Stowe’s ZipTour, a nearly two-mile zipline.
The Shires of Vermont Byway
This historic route 7A runs through the southwest corner of the state, known as the Shires of Vermont. It includes seventeen charming towns that line the route, including Bennington and Manchester. In Bennington, climb to the top of the 306-foot-tall monument built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington; it offers an unparalleled bird's eye view of the surroundings.
Woodstock, Vermont
Sure, you hear “Woodstock,” and fall foliage isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. That’s understandable. But this is a different Woodstock in different state. This Woodstock is actually one of the best destinations to see foliage and has been called the "quintessential New England village." Expect classic American charm; colorful, lush foliage; and a quaint town bustling with shops and restaurants. Go for a hike through the woodlands of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to take in the foliage firsthand. Then, after working up an appetite, sample fresh local cheese from the Billings Farm & Museum.
Maine’s Coastal Route 1
Start in Portland and head north on “Old Route 1” for one of New England’s most scenic coastal drives. Stop along the way in Brunswick, Bath, or Rockport (you can’t go wrong with any) for seaside mansions, lighthouses, and late-season lobster rolls. Need new boots or to stock up on flannel for the season? Hit up Freeport for the L.L. Bean flagship store. End your trip in the quaint town of Camden, where you can capitalize on prime leaf-peeping spots like Merryspring, a 66-acre park and nature center.
Massachusetts’s Route 6A
Luckily, the beauty and charm of Cape Cod villages persevere passed the summer, making the postcard-perfect towns along route 6A a fantastic fall destination. Start just after the Sagamore Bridge and follow the road through scenic Sandwich, the Cape’s oldest town. From there, roll on to Yarmouth Port, through Dennis and finally Brewster. There, find Nickerson State Park, where the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail offers no shortage of views to be seen on foot. Peak season hits late here, so it’s perfect if you find yourself looking for leaves come mid-October or even later.
Boston, Massachusetts
If small towns or rural hikes aren’t your cup of tea, Boston offers easily accessible views from the bustling historic city. Stroll through the trees in Boston Common and the Public Garden. Walk or bike along the Charles River Esplanade. And head to the Arnold Arboretum, an outdoor museum of trees and the oldest public arboretum in North America. Rent a car and drive to Walden Pond, where you'll see Henry David Thoreau's (surprisingly tiny) cabin, along with beautiful fall foliage reflected in the pond. After you’ve gotten your share of sights, explore the city’s incredible cultural scene, dining and shopping options. You won’t be disappointed.
Massachusetts’s Mohawk Trail
The 63-mile-long Mohawk Trail follows what was once a Native American trade route. Located in northwest Massachusetts, it straddles the Berkshire Mountains between the Hudson and Connecticut River valleys. There are mountain streams and plenty of pit stops along the way, like the Golden Eagle restaurant on the trail’s famous Hairpin Turn (the food is decent, the view unbeatable). End in North Adams and visit MassMoCA, the Massachusetts Musuem of Contemporary Art––one of the biggest museums in the country.
Bethel, Maine
In this mountain village, the best way to see the changing leaves is on foot. Bethel offers hiking access to multiple well-known trails situated in some standout conservation lands, including the White Mountain National Forest, Grafton Notch State Park, and the Appalachian Trail. Be sure to check out the Androscoggin River Recreation Trail, home to some unique wildlife and gorgeous foliage.