Fall colors are magical — but let’s be honest: fighting leaf-peeping crowds can ruin the vibe. 😩🍁 If you’re craving crisp air, golden leaves, and peaceful scenery before peak season hits, these early-turning spots are your secret weapon.
Here are 10 places in the U.S. where fall foliage arrives early — and the crowds haven’t caught on yet.
1. 🍃 Aspen, Colorado
As early as mid-September, Aspen’s namesake trees start glowing in brilliant gold. The contrast with the dark evergreens and mountain backdrops? Unreal.
✨ Don’t miss: A sunrise drive along Maroon Creek Road to Maroon Bells
2. 🍁 The Adirondacks, New York
This upstate region kicks off fall earlier than most of New England — and it’s just as breathtaking. Think quiet lakes, rustic lodges, and fiery mountain views.
✨ Don’t miss: Mirror Lake in Lake Placid and the Cloudsplitter Gondola
3. 🌲 Glacier National Park, Montana
Fall color here begins as early as late August at higher elevations. Bonus: wildlife sightings are more frequent as the park gets quieter.
✨ Don’t miss: Going-to-the-Sun Road before it closes for winter
4. 🏞️ Northern Vermont (NEK)
Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom starts changing colors earlier than the more popular southern areas — and it’s far less crowded.
✨ Don’t miss: Burke Mountain and scenic Route 114
5. 🌄 Eastern Sierras, California
California fall? Oh yes. The Eastern Sierras light up with golden aspens by mid-to-late September, especially around higher lakes.
✨ Don’t miss: June Lake Loop and North Lake near Bishop
6. 🌿 Denali National Park, Alaska
Want to see fall in August? Denali delivers. The tundra turns red, gold, and orange — and it’s like no other autumn palette you’ve seen.
✨ Don’t miss: Polychrome Pass and Savage River area
7. 🍂 Catskill Mountains, New York
The Catskills are close to NYC but still feel like a world away. You’ll catch early-turning maples and mountain views, minus the heavy traffic.
✨ Don’t miss: Kaaterskill Falls hike and Overlook Mountain trail
8. 🐻 Great Smoky Mountains (High Elevations), TN/NC
While the lower valleys peak in October, the high elevations start changing in late September — and they’re stunning.
✨ Don’t miss: Clingmans Dome and the Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks
9. 🛶 Northern Wisconsin (Bayfield Peninsula)
Lake Superior adds drama to already-gorgeous fall views. This area starts showing color in late September, especially around the forested lake roads.
✨ Don’t miss: A kayak tour of the Apostle Islands sea caves
10. 🌾 Sandia Mountains, New Mexico
Fall in the desert? Yup — especially at altitude. The Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque show bursts of yellow and orange by early October.
✨ Don’t miss: A ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway at sunset
🍁 Beat the Rush, Chase the Color
Fall doesn’t have to be crowded or stressful. These spots prove you can see peak foliage without the peak fuss — if you go early and smart.
Ready to pack a sweater and hit the road?
