Fall leaf tour recommendations updated September 2024.
ZIM is excited about the changing season and ready to share our top picks for enjoying fall landscapes and stunning foliage! With staff based throughout the United States, we’ve gathered suggestions for taking in the beauty of fall in Colorado and beyond. Whether you’re planning a trip or a local adventure, check out our recommendations for the best fall leaves, scenic drives, autumn festivals, and more.
Colorado: Scenic Train Rides and High-Altitude Views
The Georgetown Loop Railroad in the Rocky Mountains
What better way to see the changing leaves than by train? The Georgetown Loop Railroad is located 45 miles west of Denver and has special events throughout the fall this year.
Fall Colors Train: September 20-22 and 27-29
Pumpkin Fest Train: October 4-6
Autumnfest Train: October 11-13 and 18-20
Take this historic train ride through the changing season and enjoy all the seasonal views along the way. Get your train tickets here before they sell out this season!
Independence Pass in Central Colorado
At 12,000 feet, Independence Pass is the highest paved state highway that crosses over the Continental Divide in Colorado, which means you’ll get some awesome views from anywhere on the 32-mile-long highway. Make sure to pack a jacket and be careful of quick changes in the weather. Keep in mind that the pass typically closes on or near November 7 each year, so make sure to get this on the calendar for prime fall foliage! For other updates and travel tips, check out the Colorado Department of Transportation.
Rocky Mountain National Park is just 70 Miles from Denver
A premier fall foliage destination with 415 square miles of scenic views, mountains, lakes, and 350 miles of hiking trails. Some of the best spots for fall leaf viewing include the Bear Lake Road Corridor, Trail Ridge Road, and Glacier Gorge.
Note: From May 24, 2024, through mid-October, Rocky Mountain National Park implements a timed entry reservation system. More details and reservations are available at Recreation.gov.
Michigan: Autumn Adventures by the Lake
Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Heading up north for the fall leaf tour, ZIM’s Associate Director of Grant Research, B Balmer, recommends checking out Lake Superior—the world’s largest freshwater lake by area. B recommends adventuring to the north shore of the lake to take in the autumn views.
You can also join in for fun community events that occur throughout the season like The Cook County Market, Rooftop Yoga at Voyageur Brewing, Local Murder Mystery Author Panel, or the Caribou Cream’s Annual Maple Fall Festival. For some fall strolls and scenic hiking, B highlights The Gunflint Trail and The Superior Hiking Trail—both notably beautiful during the fall season!
ZIM Inside Source: B Balmer
Minnesota: Fall Festivities and Pumpkin Delights
The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley
Staying up north on ZIM’s fall tour, one of our Grant Researchers & Writers, Allyn Glenn-Angell, recommends taking a visit to the Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo. This one-of-a-kind event runs from September 28, 2024 - November 2, 2024, to support the zoo’s mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.
Featuring a stunning outdoor trail filled with thousands of artistically carved and glowing pumpkins, this year's event offers a unique fall experience to walk you through the wonders of the world and share the joys of travel. This event usually sells out, so get your tickets when they go on sale for the general public on September 7!
ZIM Inside Source: Allyn Glenn-Angell
Wisconsin: River Escapes and Scenic Adventures
St. Croix River along the Wisconsin & Minnesota border
If you’re a fan of the water, another beautiful fall destination is the St. Croix Riverway in Wisconsin. The activities are endless, including river paddling with equipment readily available to rent; fishing for smallmouth bass, trout, and muskies; overnight camping at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway; hiking along two riverways; and boating or kayaking with park rangers. Outside of the riverway activities, there is plenty to do and see in the St. Croix Valley.
Check out all you need to know about planning your visit, including passes, river conditions, weather, reservations, and more.
ZIM Inside Source: Allyn Glenn-Angell
Iowa: Apple Orchards and Seasonal Fun
Wilson’s Orchard in Iowa City
Heading to the Midwest on the fall leaf tour, Wilson’s Orchard & Farm offers a one-of-a-kind, hands-on experience to pick your own apples and learn more about sustainable growing practices. The farm’s goal is to educate and nurture the connection people have with their food and local growers.
In addition to its mission to improve the quality and flavor of locally grown foods, the farm prioritizes improving soil and water quality, reducing erosion, and minimizing social and economic inputs. Beyond ethical farming, Wilson’s Orchard also offers seasonal events, including apple picking, hayrides, and their famous cider donuts. ZIM Inside Source: Allyn Glenn-Angell
North Carolina: Majestic Mountain Drives and Forest Escapes
Blue Ridge Parkway along the Appalachian Mountains
Heading out east on the fall leaf tour, North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway offers a variety of significant natural resources and world-renowned biodiversity. The Parkway covers a wide range of habitats along the Appalachian Mountains, and visitors often encounter an unsurpassed diversity of climate, vegetation, wildlife, and geological features. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant fall colors!
Pisgah National Forest near Asheville
Outside of Asheville, North Carolina, the Pisgah National Forest is comprised of over 500,000 acres and is known for its fall foliage, demonstrating its vast beauty with mile-high peaks, stunning waterfalls, and forested hills.
Fun fact: the forest is home to the first school of forestry in the U.S., now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site. It also boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the East. The Pisgah, Grandfather, and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains.
ZIM Inside Source: Rachel Fesperman
Massachusetts: Peak Foliage and Charming Small-Towns
The Berkshires in the mountains of western Massachusetts
Mid-October is peak foliage in the Berkshires, and with a variety of hiking options, cute towns, and inns all along scenic highways, you could spend the whole month taking in the variety of colors. This area is perfect for those who love a blend of natural beauty and charming small-town experiences.
Indiana: Covered Bridges and Folk Art
Brown County State Park in Nashville, Indiana
For those whose interests in fall leaves overlap with a love of covered bridges and folk art, Brown County is a great option. Brown County hosts two covered bridges, built in 1838 and 1880, that you can still drive through to add to your fall leaf experience. Then pop over to Nashville, IN, for a thriving folk art and music scene that will round out your fall experience. View the Brown County Leaf Cam for a real-time glimpse of the transforming leaves!
Whether you’re hiking, driving, or simply soaking in the scenery, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. Let our team's picks guide your fall adventures and create lasting memories amidst the stunning landscapes of the season. Happy exploring!