Off Duty Traveler

Fall was my mother’s favorite season. Now, of course, it’s mine. Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, brilliant blue skies, the vegetable harvest, and orange pumpkins all still delight me. When I can, I love to sneak away for long weekends to hike, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the views. After visiting many lovely places, here are four of my favorites to view fall foliage in the US.

Chatauqua, New York

I might be biased, but many of my favorite places to view fall foliage are in New York State. Chautauqua, New York is especially picturesque thanks to its combination of rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and dense hardwood forests. The region’s mix of maple, oak, beech, and birch trees creates a spectacular patchwork of reds, oranges, and golds each autumn. With cooler temperatures and crisp, clear air, the changing leaves reflect beautifully off Lake Chautauqua and the surrounding vineyards, offering countless scenic views. Whether you’re driving along quiet country roads, hiking in state parks, or simply strolling through the historic Chautauqua Institution grounds, the fall colors are vivid and immersive. You won’t believe your eyes.

In addition to the natural beauty, Chautauqua provides a peaceful, uncrowded setting to enjoy the season. The area offers numerous opportunities for leaf-peeping combined with activities like winery tours, farm visits, and lakeside dining, making it an ideal autumn getaway. The area around the Chatauqua Institution is especially picturesque, thanks to the Victorian homes that were once, and still are, a gathering place for learning and lectures. If you visit in the fall, you’ll see those homes protected by specially tailored canvas coverings, which I found fascinating. Trails in places like Panama Rocks Scenic Park and Long Point State Park allow visitors to walk directly through the colorful canopy, while scenic overlooks provide sweeping views of the countryside. The charm of small towns, combined with the vibrant seasonal landscape, makes Chautauqua a truly special destination for experiencing the magic of fall foliage.

To dive deeper into a New York Fall getaway, read about my leafpeeping vacation to Chautauqua, the Southern Tier and Wayne County, New York in the Fall here.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

I live within a two-hour drive of this magnificent state park, so I have been lucky enough to visit during all four seasons. Fall is one of my favorites because those iconic sandstone cliffs, caves, and waterfalls become even more breathtaking when framed by vibrant autumn colors. The park’s dense forests, filled with maples, oaks, and hickories, transform into a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, making every trail a scenic experience. Iconic sites like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave (above), and Cedar Falls take on a new beauty in the fall. The natural rock formations and wooded gorges create the perfect backdrop for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers. Bring your camera.

Beyond the stunning foliage, fall brings comfortable hiking weather that enhances the outdoor experience. The cooler temperatures make long treks through the park’s rugged trails more enjoyable, while the lower humidity and fewer bugs add to the comfort. I am a mosquito magnet, so trust me on this one. Seasonal events, local festivals, and cozy nearby cabins also contribute to the charm of visiting in autumn. Make reservations in advance, as this is a popular time to visit!

Whether you’re exploring the forest trails, enjoying a peaceful picnic, or simply soaking in the sights of waterfalls surrounded by colorful leaves, fall offers a blend of natural beauty and tranquility that makes Hocking Hills State Park an unforgettable destination.

If you’d like to read more about my adventures in Hocking Hills, Ohio, check out my Perfect Weekend in Hocking Hills blog and my Winter Hiking in Hocking Hills blog.

Letchworth State Park, NY

I grew up in Upstate, New York, near Rochester, and Letchworth State Park was a place my family and I visited often during the fall. Returning as an adult, I understand why. Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of my favorite places in the state to experience fall foliage. The park’s dramatic gorge, carved by the Genesee River, creates a stunning backdrop where vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows pop against the dark cliffs and rushing waterfalls.

With over 14,000 acres of forest, the variety of hardwood trees ensures a tapestry of color that glows in the autumn sunlight. There are dozens of overlooks, each offering unique perspectives of the canyon and the surrounding woodland, making it a perfect spot for leaf peeping. Be sure to stop in the Glen Iris Inn, formerly the country estate of William Pryor Letchworth. The Inn overlooks magnificent Middle Falls on the Genesee River and is a great photo opportunity.

Beyond its natural beauty, Letchworth State Park offers more than 60 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for photography. The mix of open meadows, deep forest, and river views means that the foliage can be enjoyed up close and from dramatic, wide-angled views above the gorge. Seasonal festivals, wildlife sightings, and the cooler weather all add to the park’s appeal in autumn. Whether you’re exploring the trails, admiring the waterfalls framed by fiery foliage, or simply taking in the view from a quiet overlook, Letchworth delivers one of the most breathtaking and memorable fall landscapes in New York.

Note: if you’re not a fan of hiking or unable to get around, you can still enjoy most of these scenes from your car. The bridge above is a short, paved walk from a parking lot.

Read more about my visit to Letchworth State Park: A Guide to NY’s Natural Wonder here.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

We’ve returned to Red River Gorge, Kentucky more than once for a fall weekend getaway, and have not been disappointed. Nestled within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the gorge features dramatic sandstone cliffs, natural stone arches, and deep forested valleys that come alive with fall colors each autumn. From late September through early November, the forests transform into a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, making every hike or drive a visual experience. The contrast between the rugged rock formations and the canopy of fall leaves creates views that are unique to this part of Appalachia.

Beyond the colors themselves, Red River Gorge offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the season. There are over 100 natural sandstone arches and miles of hiking trails that provide vistas of the autumn landscape. Popular overlooks such as Chimney Top Rock and Sky Bridge offer panoramic views of the gorge blanketed in fiery fall hues. Whether you’re camping, rock climbing, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, the crisp mountain air and colorful scenery make the gorge a perfect fall getaway.

Read about my Long Weekend in Red River Gorge, Kentucky here.

All of these places are wonderful to visit during any season, but there is something special about a visit during the fall, when the leaves are turning and the temperatures are falling. So grab your hiking boots, your favorite sweater, and plan your visit. Let me know what you think.