The 10 Most Gorgeous Fall Hikes Around the Country
Take advantage of peak leaf peeping
Between the colorful leaves and the crisp air, autumn is a lot of people’s favorite time of year. And there’s no better time to get outside and explore nature. Here, ten stunning fall hikes around the country.
1.
The Alum Cave Trail (Gatlinburg, Tennessee)
One of the most popular trails in the Great Smoky Mountains, this 11-mile loop begins near Gatlinburg and takes hikers up to the 6,593-foot summit of Mount LeConte. The vista? Miles upon miles of orange leaves.
2.
Looking Glass Rock Trail (Asheville, North Carolina)
At an elevation of 3,970 feet, Looking Glass Rock is one of the most iconic spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and this trail (45 minutes from Asheville) is 6.5 miles of spectacular color.
3.
Escarpment Trail (Ontonagon, Michigan)
One visit to the Porcupine Mountains and you’ll understand the enchantment of fall in Michigan’s upper peninsula. Take the 4.3-mile EscarpmentTrail for panoramic views of Lake of the Clouds and the Big Carp River Valley.
4.
Crater Lake Trail (Aspen, Colorado)
The Maroon Bells are one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. Hike the 3.2-mile Crater Lake Trail and you’ll see why. In the fall, the aspen trees reflect off the lakes, making it look like the water is on fire.
5.
The Gorge Trail (Watkins Glen, New York)
The scenic Watkins Glen State Park in the Finger Lakes has three walking trails. Our pick: the Gorge trail, a 1.3-mile stretch that weaves under waterfalls and up and down hundreds of stone steps.
6.
Sunset Ridge (Mount Mansfield, Vermont)
The Sunset Ridge loop is one of the most popular trails along Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest mountain. Trek the three miles to the summit (4,393 feet above sea level) for a bird’s-eye view of the foliage capital of the country.
7.
Yellow Rock Trail (West Fork, Arkansas)
Follow this trail in Devil’s Den State Park to the Yellow Rock scenic overlook, where you can take in the beauty of Creek Valley, Devil Lake and the Boston Mountains. It’s one of the most mesmerizing views in the Ozarks.
8.
Yellow Aster Butte (North Cascades, Washington)
This moderate 7.1-mile hike in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest boasts some of the West Coast's most incredible foliage. Starting in September, the fall colors peak and wildflowers bloom in the open meadows.
9.
South Fork Valley Trail (Anchorage, Alaska)
This trail in Chugach State Park is just under ten miles, leading hikers around the turquoise Eagle Lake and Symphony Lake. The moderate-intensity hike takes you through open valleys offering panoramic views bursting with color.
10.
Central Park (New York City, New York)
OK, it’s more of a leisurely stroll than an intense hike, but few places are lovelier than Central Park on a sunny autumn day. Spend a couple of hours wandering...with a pumpkin spice latte in hand, of course.
