Are you ready for an autumn adventure?
Autumn is a magical time in the USA when nature's palette bursts into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold.
Whether you are seeking tranquil landscapes or exhilarating hikes, this guide will lead you to the 2 most beautiful places to enjoy autumn in the USA. Grab your cozy sweaters, pack your bags, and let's start our colorful journey!
1. New England: Vermont
New England, particularly Vermont, is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage. Imagine driving through charming small towns, where the streets are lined with fiery maples, and the air is crisp and filled with the scent of autumn leaves.
A dreamy atmosphere awaits you here!
Vermont is magnificent, if you have limited time, a must-see place is the quaint town of Stowe, which is famous for its innumerable trails. For breathtaking panoramic views, we suggest hiking the Stowe Pinnacle Trail, which has the trailhead on Pinnacle Road directly in Stowe.
A trail of approximately 3.7 miles round trip, with moderate difficulty due to its steady uphill climb and some rocky and root-covered sections.
Once you are in Stowe, don't miss the near Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the US (only 26.54 sq. km!), known for its historical architecture and vibrant foliage.
Here enjoy a warm and traditional Yankee pot roast at The Wayside Restaurant, a beloved local institution since 1918, a plus are its large windows that offer views of the surrounding Vermont countryside. What is better than a scenic view and a hot fulfilling dish?
Address: 1873 US-302, Montpelier
Estimated cost: From $15 pp
How to Get There:
Fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is well-connected to major US cities.
From there, rent a car and enjoy the scenic 45-minute drive to Stowe and another 45 minutes to Montpelier, you will also pass through quintessential New England landscapes that are especially beautiful in this period.
2. Great Smoky Mountains: Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a mesmerizing blend of misty mountains and vibrant fall colors. This immense national park (187,000 acres) is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Among all the mountains in the park, Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, provides stunning views of the fall foliage. The main trail to Clingmans Dome is a paved path that is 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) one-way, but due to the steepness of the path it takes up to an hour to get to the observation tower!
You can drive to Clingmans Dome via Clingmans Dome Road, which is open from April 1 to November 30 (weather permitting), and at the end of the road, there is even a free parking area.
If hikes are not for you, or if you want to enjoy something else, you should go to Cades Cove, a valley in the middle of the Park, which not only offers a beautiful scenic view but also provides an ideal place to spot wildlife!
It is possible to drive an 11-mile (17.7 km) one-way loop road, to comfortably enjoy stunning views, wildlife sightings, and historic buildings. Why don't you try to catch (on camera!) some white-tailed deer, black bears, turkeys, and coyotes?
Use this occasion to enjoy a night in the middle of the valley in one of the tent and RV sites that Cades Cove Campground offers. It is open all year round and prices start as low as $25 with access to main amenities. (Address: 10042 Campground Dr, Townsend, TN)
How to Get There: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the closest major airport. From there, a short drive takes you into the heart of the Smokies.
Autumn in the USA offers an incredible array of experiences, from the quaint towns of New England to the majestic peaks of the Rockies. Each destination provides its unique charm and beauty, making it perfect for an autumn getaway.
Are you ready to pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the enchanting colors of autumn?
Enjoy your autumn adventures, Lykkers!
