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Decide to take a road trip can seem like a good decision any time of the year, especially if you're trying to take in as much scenery as possible. But embarking on a road trip in the fall takes on a whole new meaning as the leaves change color to brilliant reds, oranges and yellows for miles. While there are plenty of popular and lesser-known spots that make it easy to experience fall hues all in one place, taking the time to get a tour of an area by car can often be the best way to get into the seasonal spirit. . Read on for the top twelve road trips in the United States, according to travel experts, that you should take to see the best fall foliage.

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12 Best Road Trips in the US to See Fall Foliage

1. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina)

At any time of the year, the Blue Ridge Parkway makes for an awe-inspiring experience, which is probably why it's the most visited site in the entire country. National park system . But as the leaves begin to change color, anyone passing by is met with an awe-inspiring display of brilliant color.

“My all-time favorite fall foliage road trip is along Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina,” says travel writer Polly Clover . “This scenic route takes you to incredible, colorful views in the fall, with countless places to stop to take in the scenery, spend time in nature, and stroll through charming mountain towns. My favorite route is Brevard, Bryson City, Asheville, and Blowing Rock, with as many stops as possible along the way.

2. The Scenic Drives of Utah (Utah)

Utah's vast expanses of natural beauty are not confined to any specific season. But according to Dolev Schreiber , former tourist guide of the campsite and founder and CEO of DetourOn , fall offers an exceptional opportunity to appreciate it in a dazzling and new way.

"Scenic Byway 12 to Bryce Canyon National Park takes you through a grove of aspens on Boulder Mountain and breathtaking views of Capitol Reef National Park ", she said. "Don't miss the foliage of the aspens at Panda . It's the largest aspen — and perhaps the largest living organism — in the world. The roads are well maintained mountain roads, you get incredible views of the mountains and the desert, the days are usually warm, but not too hot, and the nights are cool, but not too cold. »

Besides Goldilocks type weather, you might be rewarded if your ride takes you past sunset. "This road trip passes through select states in the United States." darkest skies with little light pollution so you can see the Milky Way every night. And along the route you have lakes for fishing and boating, as well as plenty of hiking and biking trails. »

READ THIS NEXT: The 6 Best US National Parks to See Fall Foliage .

3. Columbia River Highway (Oregon)

If the idea of waterfalls intrigues you, you might want to take a trip to Portland, Oregon in the fall and take the Columbia River Highway.

"The fall experience is out of this world as the entire stretch features the most beautiful waterfalls including Horsetail Falls , Falls of the bridal veil , Latourell Falls , Multnomah Falls , and many more", shares Alexandra Dubakova , travel expert and Marketing Director of FreeTour.com .

"This highway makes the best weekend getaway as you hike the trail along Pittock Mansion Hike, giving visitors exciting 360-degree views of the city of Portland. You might even catch a glimpse of Mt. Hood , especially on a clear day," she said.

4. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

It shouldn't be a surprise National parks offer some of the best opportunities to view fall foliage. But even if you don't plan to camp, one site in particular may be worth visiting from the comfort of your vehicle.

“One of my favorite fall foliage road trips is venturing into the beautiful state of Colorado,” Michelle Snell , travel writer and founder of This Texas couple , tell Better life . " Rocky Mountain National Park is amazing during the fall months. Head to Trail Ridge Road to see gorgeous oranges and hues of golden yellow. When you reach the top you have an amazing view of the forest below with all its changing colors. Plus, you get the added bonus of spending time in the fun little mountain town of Estes Park."

RELATED: 10 American Cities That Seem Magical in the Fall .

5. Tunnel of Trees (Michigan)

Contemplating a valley that seems ablaze with orange, red and yellow leaves can be a breathtaking sight. But when the colors are reversed and towering over you, the feeling can be even more remarkable – and a Midwestern destination has the perfect motivation to experience such a thing.

"One of my all-time favorite scenic trips to take in the fall colors is the Northern Michigan Tree Tunnel," says the travel blogger and author of Towards new adventures Linda Egeler . "This route runs 20 miles from Harbor Springs to Cross Village along Michigan's M-119. The narrow road follows an ancient Native American trail and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan."

"Travelers will experience hairpin bends, views of lighthouses, and pass by quaint, rustic cabins and newer million-dollar homes," she adds. "Best of all, thick hardwoods line the course, with their leafy canopies embracing overhead. They ablaze with bright red, orange and yellow foliage during the fall color season."

6. Old Mission Peninsula (Michigan)

Another amazing leaf-viewing opportunity in Michigan is found along the Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City.

“Take the nearly two-hour scenic drive through the Old Mission Peninsula, spotting orchards, vineyards, forests and villages, all expertly decked out in fall colors,” says Tourism in Traverse City . "Taking the M-37 north from Traverse City, travelers can enjoy charming restaurants, wine tours, roadside fruit stands, and the beautiful East Bay coastline."

You will also pass the famous Mission Point Lighthouse , which was built in 1870 and is today "located at the northern end of a scenic drive along the M-37 through cherry orchards and vineyards".

RELATED: The 12 Most Romantic Fall Getaways in America

7. Siskiyou area (California)

California has some of the most varied climates and terrain within its borders. This includes a unique and special area to view fall foliage in the north.

"Fall in the Siskiyou area is a great time to experience fall colors and breathtaking views," says Heather Dodds , program director for Discover Siskiyou . "From October through November, Siskiyou is dotted with yellows, pinks, oranges, and burgundy, as non-native trees typically peak in the first half of October, while native trees typically peak in the second half of the month.The color is particularly impressive against the backdrop of a snowy landscape. Mount Shasta ".

Just make sure you don't forget to take a crucial panning break. “The 24-mile loop from Yreka to Scott Valley is especially wonderful in the fall, with a mandatory photo stop at Mount Etna Mormon Church. There, several exotics surrounding a steeple church presented a color display of peaks in mid-October that rivals any color on the East Coast.

8. Hocking Hills Scenic Drive (Ohio)

Not all leaf-watching expeditions have to last several days. In fact, some easy-to-undertake walks can provide enough fall color and beauty in just one afternoon.

“The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway in Ohio is a great road trip destination for anyone looking to see the beautiful fall foliage,” Nick Mueller , Chief Operating Officer of HawaiianIslands.com , tell Better life . "The 26.4-mile route follows State Route 374 through the historic hills and passes through the six non-contiguous sites of Hocking Hills State Park . You can admire the colorful leaves while exploring caves, waterfalls and caverns when you feel like taking a break from your driving."

RELATED: The 8 Most Charming Cities in the United States for a Fall Getaway .

9. Adirondack Mountains (New York)

Although many might think that Yellowstone or Yosemite would top the list of greatest parks, they would be wrong. At 9,375 square miles, Adirondack Park in New York is the largest in the contiguous United States, equal in size to neighboring Vermont and three times the size of Yellowstone National Park. Naturally, these vast expanses perhaps offer the better opportunities to see fall foliage at its best.

“Those planning to vacation in the Adirondacks in the fall hope to time their trip to coincide with the week when the leaves are at their most colorful, when the rich reds, yellows, golds and browns on background of pines and conifers are at their peak, also known as "peak". Jane Hooper , Head of Communications at Regional Sustainable Tourism Office in Lake Placid , tell Better life .

The geography of the region can also make the "Peak" an extended experience throughout the season. “The Adirondack region in upstate New York is very large, spanning over six million acres, with varying elevations, temperatures, landscapes and weather,” explains Hopper. “Generally, the heaviest and most beautiful color appears in a two to three week window beginning the last week of September through Columbus Day, with higher elevations peaking first and valleys warmer along Lake Champlain and southward peaking just before mid-October.

“The Lake Placid/High Peaks and Whiteface areas are the first to showcase their colorful display,” she notes. "As the elevation decreases in the surrounding areas, areas such as Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and communities in the Adirondack Hub region, as well as Hamilton County, are the next areas to peak in color."

You can still take a look at the leaves even if you're late in the season. "The Lake Champlain region, closest to the lake, peaks last. Typically this occurs a few weeks after the higher elevations, primarily due to the lake itself, which moderates the temperature in the Champlain Valley. “, adds Hooper.

10. Rangeley Lakes Scenic Drive (Maine)

It's hard to think of an area of New England that would be disappointing for viewing fall foliage. But according to experts, locals know that certain areas can leave a particularly stunning impression on visitors if you're willing to make the trip. ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb

“I love Maine in the fall because of all the beautiful changing leaves and the vast water that surrounds the area,” Felix Billington , owner and tour guide of Motorcycle Trails in Magellan , tell Better life . "It's one of the most scenic places in the fall, especially when crossing Rangeley Lakes Scenic Drive ".

“You get to see trees on both sides of your house and the sparkling water of Lake Rangeley,” he says. "It's the perfect place for a road trip, as you're up high and looking out over a vast land of fall colors. This is a must-do for anyone looking for a great fall road trip and great photoshoot! "

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11. Brandywine Valley National Scenic Drive (Delaware)

While New England is gaining attention for fall-themed trips in the Northeast, many other states a little further south offer a perfectly scenic getaway with a fraction of the crowd later in the season.

"Wilmington, Delaware, with its prime Mid-Atlantic location, is perfect for fall walks, whether it's a day trip or a weekend getaway. end", Shauna McVey , says the public information officer for Delaware State Parks. Better life . "The best season in the area for turning the leaves...runs from late October to early November", and is a short drive from New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

But any fall trip to town should also include a jaunt through the nearby Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway. "It's a spectacular journey through the rolling roads of northern Delaware that winds through grand mansions and stately museums," McVey said.

"Starting in the heart of downtown Wilmington at Rodney Square, you'll soon find yourself in front of the beautiful landscapes of Domaine Nemours , Winterthur Museum , Hagley Museum , And Longwood Gardens , one of the largest gardens in the world. You will also cross Brandywine Creek State Park , where long stone walls lead to picture-perfect trees turning red, orange and yellow,” he adds.

12. Marinette County Waterfalls Tour (Wisconsin)

Another fall foliage road trip including waterfalls takes place in Wisconsin. The Marinette County Waterfalls Circuit is a 125 mile loop that takes you past 15 falls and cascades, all surrounded by beautiful changing leaves in the fall. As you drive, you will see blue "visit the waterfalls" signs on the side of the road that will tell you where to stop.

And if you fancy a stopover for white-water rafting, this is one of the best routes. “The Pike, Peshtigo and Pemebonwon rivers flow swiftly and clearly through pine and hardwood forests, lit up with breathtaking colors during the fall season,” explains Wisconsin trip .