10 Fall Foliage Gems That Smart Travelers Hit Before the Crowds Arrive

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