Autumn has always been my favorite season to travel. I live for crisp air, fiery leaves, spiced cider, and the smell of pumpkin patches on a sunny afternoon. I’ll happily get lost in a corn maze, sip my way through seasonal coffee menus, and pull over on road trips just to take photos of the perfect golden tree.
Every year, I make it a mission to crisscross the country in search of the most magical fall destinations, places where the colors are bold, the air smells like woodsmoke, and the seasonal fun never stops. These six getaways everyone needs to have on their travel bucket list.
1. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is the East Coast’s fall royalty, and I finally had a chance to visit this past autumn. This charming New England town is framed by rolling hills that turn fiery red and burnt orange by early October. Hike the Stowe Pinnacle Trail for sweeping views, or take the gondola to see the foliage from above. Downtown, grab a maple croissant from Black Cap before browsing the cozy shops.
2. Forks, Washington
Even if you’re not a Twilight superfan like me, Forks is a moody autumn dream. Nestled in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, it’s where misty forests, overcast skies, and rocky beaches create a perfectly atmospheric getaway.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_1abckr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeVisit La Push beaches for dramatic Pacific Coast views or wander through the Hoh Rain Forest, where moss-covered trees look like something out of a fantasy vampire novel.
3. Hope Valley, California
Tucked in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Hope Valley is one of California’s best-kept fall secrets. The aspen groves here turn the brightest shade of yellow, contrasting against evergreen pines and mountain backdrops. Every time I drive through here my jaw is on the ground.
Book yourself a stay at a luxury cabin or yurt so really immersive yourself in the fall leaves.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole in the fall is a wild mix of golden meadows, snow-dusted peaks, and the possibility of spotting wildlife before winter sets in. Take a scenic float trip on the Snake River or head into Grand Teton National Park for picture-perfect foliage against dramatic mountain views.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_1cjckr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeThe town itself offers chic Western shops, cozy bars, and galleries that make for perfect après-adventure stops.
5. Estes Park, Colorado
If you’re looking for a fall trip with a touch of spooky season energy, Estes Park is it. Not only does it sit at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, but it’s also home to The Stanley Hotel, famously said to have inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.
I recommend you take a nighttime ghost tour, then balance it out with a hike to see the elk herds that roam the area each autumn.
6. Dane County, Wisconsin
Fall in the Midwest is pure magic, and Dane County delivers it in full color. Tucked at the t.op of the "thumb" you'll find sweeping coastlines and endless fall colors. Stop by a local apple orchard for fresh cider or drive the backroads for your own personal leaf-peeping tour.
Whether you’re after spooky hotel lore, Pacific Northwest mist, or a New England postcard moment, these fall getaways bring the season to life in a way that feels tailor-made for your camera roll.
Yahoo CreatorKara HarmsCreator of Whimsy SoulKara Harms is a San Francisco-based content creator who shares body positivity, travel, wine and lifestyle content. She is also an Airbnb Superhost of Whimsy Homes. Follow
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