Fall Foliage Road Trips: Best Routes Across the U.S.

There's a special magic in the air when summer gives way to autumn. The crisp, cool breeze and the vibrant transformation of leaves create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable family adventure. What better way to experience this seasonal spectacle than with a fall foliage road trip? We’ve rounded up some of the best routes across the U.S. for prime leaf-peeping and included essential packing tips to make your journey smooth, cozy, and organized.

Packing for the Perfect Fall Road Trip

A well-packed car is the key to a stress-free journey. Before you hit the road, think about comfort, organization, and entertainment. Keeping your vehicle tidy means more room for souvenirs and less time searching for that missing sock.

A smart way to manage clothes on the go is with a designated laundry bag. Our Travel Laundry Bag is a game-changer, featuring separate compartments for clean and dirty clothes. It folds up neatly, taking up almost no space in your suitcase but saving you from messy piles in the trunk.

Long drives call for comfort. A good travel pillow can make all the difference for car naps, preventing stiff necks and ensuring everyone arrives refreshed. For the little adventurers in the back, a Kids' Travel Activity Set can provide hours of screen-free fun, making the miles fly by.

America's Most Scenic Fall Drives

Now that you have your packing list sorted, it’s time to choose your destination. Here are three of the most breathtaking fall foliage road trips in the country.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Often called "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile journey through the Appalachian Highlands. This route offers stunning, long-range vistas and close-up views of the southern mountains. The parkway is free of commercial traffic, making it a peaceful and immersive experience.

Why It's Great for Fall:
The elevation changes along the parkway mean the fall colors last for weeks. Leaves at higher elevations turn first, with the colors gradually descending to the valleys. You can enjoy a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows from late September through October.

Must-See Stops:

• Mabry Mill (Milepost 176): A historic gristmill and living history museum that looks especially picturesque surrounded by autumn colors.
• Linn Cove Viaduct (Milepost 304): An engineering marvel that snakes around Grandfather Mountain. The views from the bridge and nearby trails are spectacular.
• Craggy Gardens (Milepost 364): Known for its twisted, ancient trees, this spot offers a unique, almost mystical landscape against the fall foliage.

Family Tip: Pack a picnic and stop at one of the many overlooks. It’s a simple way to enjoy a meal with a million-dollar view. Don't forget your cozy travel blankets!

2. Route 100, Vermont

For a classic New England fall experience, look no further than Vermont's Route 100. This scenic byway stretches over 200 miles along the eastern edge of the Green Mountains, connecting some of the state's most charming towns and villages. It’s a quintessential journey through covered bridges, rolling hills, and brilliant foliage.

Why It's Great for Fall:
Vermont is famous for its fiery sugar maples, which produce some of the most intense reds and oranges you'll ever see. The peak season is typically late September to mid-October. Route 100 takes you right through the heart of this vibrant display.

Must-See Stops:

• Stowe: This classic resort town is nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. Take the gondola up for panoramic views.
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill: A perfect fall stop for fresh apple cider, warm donuts, and other local treats.
• Weston: Home to the iconic Vermont Country Store, where you can find nostalgic goods and unique souvenirs.

Family Tip: Keep your car clean from snack spills and accumulated gear by using organizing tools. A compact swim bag, like our Two-Sided Wet/Dry Bag, can double as a container for damp towels or soiled clothes after an impromptu hike.

3. Michigan's Upper Peninsula

If you're seeking a more rugged and wild fall adventure, Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is your destination. With three Great Lakes surrounding it and vast forests, the U.P. offers an untamed beauty that is simply breathtaking in the fall.

Why It's Great for Fall:
The mix of hardwoods like maples, oaks, and birches creates a diverse and stunning color palette. The contrast between the brilliant foliage and the deep blue waters of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron is unforgettable. Peak colors usually arrive in late September and early October.

Must-See Stops:

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Drive along H-58 to see stunning sandstone cliffs, dunes, and waterfalls framed by autumn colors. A boat tour here is a must.
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Known for its large, amber-colored waterfall, which gets its hue from the tannins of cedar swamps. The surrounding forest is a riot of color in the fall.
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Head to the Lake of the Clouds Overlook for one of the most iconic fall views in the Midwest.

Family Tip: The weather in the U.P. can be unpredictable. Pack layers and be prepared for anything. Having a well-organized vehicle is crucial, especially when you need to quickly grab a jacket or a dry pair of socks. This is another situation where having separate bags for clean and dirty clothes can make a huge difference.

Get Ready for Your Fall Adventure

A fall foliage road trip is more than just a drive; it's an opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. By choosing a scenic route and packing smart, you set yourself up for a comfortable, organized, and awe-inspiring journey.

So, load up the car, grab your Travel Fanatics gear, and hit the road. The beautiful colors of autumn are waiting for you.