When leaves turn brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold, these overlooks become natural amphitheaters for autumn's finest performance.

New England Classics

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park

With 75 overlooks along 105 miles, Skyline Drive is America's premier fall driving destination. Peak color typically hits mid-October. Thornton Gap and Stony Man overlooks offer the most dramatic vistas.

Mount Washington Auto Road, New Hampshire

Drive above the treeline to see fall colors spreading across the valleys like a patchwork quilt. The summit offers views of five states when clear.

Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park

Watch sunrise illuminate the Atlantic and the colorful forests of Mount Desert Island. Early October brings peak color.

Mountain West

Maroon Bells, Colorado

The aspen groves surrounding Colorado's most photographed peaks turn brilliant gold in late September. Arrive early—the road closes to private vehicles during peak hours.

Grand Teton Overlooks, Wyoming

Cottonwoods along the Snake River turn golden against snow-capped Tetons. Schwabacher Landing and Oxbow Bend offer iconic compositions.

Great Lakes Region

Pictured Rocks, Michigan

Colorful cliffs combined with colorful foliage create a double feature. The Miners Castle overlook is most popular, but Chapel Rock offers more solitude.

When to Visit