13 Best Fall Foliage Spots To Have A Picnic
The season of fall brings many amazing things. From cool air to festive decor to beautiful scenery, fall is my favorite season for a reason. One of the absolute best parts of fall is, of course, the beautiful foliage of the trees, when everything turns from green to red to orange to gold before the harsh winter comes. These conditions make fall foliage spots the perfect places for outings and picnics, something you can’t do year-round. So, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate picnic and hangout spots under the best fall foliage, check out this list!
1. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
Starting off this list is a place that you probably wouldn’t think of right away when it comes to fall foliage. Ozark National Forest in Arkansas might be in the south, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking any beauty. Stroll all along the beautiful mountains and rivers, and just take in the stunning colors of fall.
2. Napa Valley, California
Next up on our list isn’t your typical fall foliage, it’s fall with a twist. It’s no surprise that this famous California wine region is stunning during any month, but it’s especially pretty during the fall. Imagine sitting on a picnic blanket in the middle of a vineyard, with the leaves all around you turning a beautiful golden hue. This is definitely a spot to not miss out on.
3. Whitefish, Montana
Whether you’re a fan of aspen, birch, or maple trees, you won’t have to choose when it comes to visiting Whitefish, Montana. This town is the gateway to Glacier National Park and is filled with scenic mountains, forests, and lakes. Picnicking under the stunning foliage of this area would be something you’d never forget!
4. Stowe, Vermont
I think it’s safe to say that Vermont wins when it comes to having the most fall foliage beauty in the U.S. and it’s pretty clear why. If you ever get the chance to visit the pretty town of Stowe in the fall, you might just be blown away by the colors. Not only is this little town adorable, but it’s also a great place to hike and ski when the weather gets cold enough!
5. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
I don’t know about you, but I don’t usually think about the south when I think of pretty fall foliage. But, that doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful there. Congaree National Park in South Carolina is known for its stunning scenery in the fall and would be the perfect destination for a picnic. Plus, the leaves stay colorful until about the beginning of December, leaving you plenty of time to get down there!
6. Bar Harbor, Maine
The whole of New England is known for its gorgeous beauty year-round, but in Bar Harbor, Maine, it’s a whole different story. There, you can get a whiff of the salty air and see the sensational colors of nature. There are also tons of historic places to visit in Bar Harbor, so your picnic could also turn into a fun history lesson!
7. The Catskill Mountains, New York
This list is going to have lots of mountain ranges on it, but that’s essentially where all the beautiful trees are! I highly recommend checking out the Catskill Mountains for your next picnic, mostly because of the striking beauty of the land. You’ll see plenty of reds, oranges, golds, and every fall color you could imagine when you visit these mountains. Plus, this area is perfect for hiking and even skiing, so don’t miss out!
8. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
If you’re a fan of both spectacular fall foliage and amazing waterfalls, Columbia River Gorge just might be the perfect picnic place for you. Not only are there tons of different species of trees, but you can also take a beautiful scenic drive along the Columbia River Gorge Highway. You can’t go wrong with this beautiful place!
9. Taos, New Mexico
We’re now making our way to the southwestern corner of the U.S. where you’ll find the beautiful Taos, New Mexico. You might be thinking that the desert doesn’t have any pretty fall foliage, but that’s where you’re wrong! Just like in the other parts of the country, the leaves change in the dessert too, and would make for a remarkable picnic!
10. Acadia, Maine
A fall adventure is calling you to Acadia, Maine, where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views. Acadia is the only National Park in New England and is home to scenic drives, hiking, and all the picnicking you could ever want. So, get out there and get exploring!
11. Eastern Shore, Maryland
This next fall foliage spot is a personal favorite of mine, partly because I go to school here and partly because I really think it’s beautiful. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Atlantic Ocean, the Eastern Shore of Maryland is a special place when it comes to natural beauty. It’s all about a scenic drive here, with gorgeous two-lane roads to practically get lost in. And if I actually did get lost here in this beauty, I probably wouldn’t even mind!
12. Aspen, Colorado
Before the ever-popular ski season starts up, Aspen, Colorado is home to some of the country’s most beautiful foliage. Between the snowy mountains and the valleys speckled in red, orange, and gold, it doesn’t get much better than this. Spend time hiking up the mountains, or just enjoy your time appreciating the beauty of nature. Just imagine a romantic picnic with your significant other here!
13. Newport, Rhode Island
We’ll be finishing out this list of stunning fall foliage with wonderful Newport, Rhode Island. While this town is mostly known for its beaches and coastline, when fall rolls around, the foliage does not come to play. Newport is the perfect combination of ocean views and the beauty of fall, and would make for the ultimate picnic!
