Fall, with its crisp air, stunning foliage, and fewer crowds, offers a unique travel experience. As summer fades and the landscapes transform into vibrant hues of red, gold, and orange, it’s the perfect time to explore new destinations. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a tranquil escape, fall provides an idyllic backdrop for travel. Here are some of the best travel destinations to consider this autumn.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Why Fall is Ideal
October in Yosemite is often called “Rocktober” by climbers for good reason. The scorching summer temperatures mellow into blissfully mild conditions, ideal for exploring the park’s iconic granite walls. The dry, cooler weather is perfect for rock climbing and hiking. Days are warm, with temperatures ranging from the high sixties to low eighties, while nights are crisp, from the fifties to the low thirties, making camping comfortable.
Fall also turns Yosemite into a photographer’s paradise. While largely evergreen, the park’s aspens along Tioga Road and in Tuolumne Meadows blaze golden, and the maples in Yosemite Valley and around Yosemite Chapel turn a brilliant red. The light softens with cloud formations, creating optimal shooting conditions throughout the day. While waterfalls may be trickling, wildlife sightings are plentiful, with strong chances of spotting black bears, mule deer, coyotes, and bighorn sheep.
Things to Do
- Rock Climbing: Take advantage of the perfect climbing weather. Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service offers lessons and guided climbs for all skill levels.
- Hiking: Explore numerous trails under comfortable temperatures. Iconic hikes offer stunning views of fall colors and granite landscapes.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy trout fishing in the park’s lakes, rivers, and streams until mid-November. Yosemite Fly Fishing Guide provides guided trips.
- E-biking and Scenic Drives: Explore Foresta Road by e-bike for beautiful scenery and swimming holes, as recommended by Yosemite E-Biking founder Chris Van Leuven. Skyline Drive offers breathtaking views of the fall foliage.
Travel Tips
- Book campground reservations at least a week in advance, even in fall, as Yosemite remains popular. Camp 4 is especially favored by climbers.
- A California fishing license is required for fishing.
- Fall offers fewer crowds compared to summer, but weekends can still be busy. Visit mid-week for a quieter experience.
Where to Stay
- Camping: Yosemite’s 13 campgrounds offer a range of experiences. Reservations are essential, especially for popular sites like Camp 4.
- Wildhaven Yosemite: For glamping, Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa offers safari-style tents and cabins with amenities like live music and yoga, located a short drive from the park entrance.
- Airbnb & Hipcamp: Explore options in and around Yosemite for varied lodging, from cozy cabins to unique campsites.
Half Dome reflected in the Merced River in Yosemite National Park, showcasing the clear blue skies and calm waters ideal for fall photography.
2. Puglia, Italy
Why Fall is Ideal
Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, offers a delightful late-summer feel well into the fall. Expect pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and better prices compared to the peak summer season and regions like Tuscany. Early fall in Puglia means you can still enjoy the beaches, cycling routes, and outdoor activities, with the added charm of the grape and olive harvests. The region boasts two national parks, numerous state reserves, marine protected areas, and a fascinating network of limestone caves.
Fall in Puglia is a culinary delight, with the Susumaniello grape harvest in early autumn and olive harvesting later in the season. Popular attractions like Ostuni are less crowded, and restaurant waits are rare. The region’s famed burrata cheese is a must-try.
Things to Do
- Cycling: Explore Puglia’s scenic routes by bike. Puglia Cycling offers rentals and guided tours.
- Cave Exploration: Take a night tour of the Caves of Castellana for a unique, off-limits experience.
- Paragliding: Get a bird’s-eye view of Alberobello’s unique trulli houses with a tandem paraglide flight, as recommended by Antonello Losito of Southern Visions.
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the still-warm weather and less crowded beaches.
Travel Tips
- Pack a bathing suit and cycling shoes, as late summer conditions can persist into fall.
- Early autumn offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
- Indulge in local culinary experiences, especially fresh burrata and seasonal harvests.
Where to Stay
- Masseria Montenapoleone: Stay in a unique, family-run eco-hotel in Pezze di Greco, near Torre Canne beach, housed in an ancient cave settlement.
- Leonardo Trulli Resort: Experience sleeping in traditional 18th-century conical-roofed stone huts (trulli) just outside Locorotondo.
- Airbnb: Find a range of accommodations in Puglia, from charming countryside villas to coastal apartments.
3. Mad River Valley, Vermont
Why Fall is Ideal
Vermont in the fall is synonymous with breathtaking foliage, and Mad River Valley, nestled in the Green Mountains, is a prime location to witness this spectacle. While southern Vermont attracts crowds, Mad River Valley offers a more immersive experience. The 36.5-mile Mad River Byway showcases vibrant maple, ash, and birch trees, along with covered bridges and charming towns. Fall in Vermont is ideal for ditching the car and embracing outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and trail running amidst the stunning colors.
Beyond foliage, fall is also mountain biking nirvana in Mad River Valley. Sugarbush Resort and networks like Eurich Pond offer fantastic singletrack trails. For a relaxed day, ride Mad River Glen’s single chair for foliage views or visit local microbreweries.
Things to Do
- Scenic Drives & Cycling: Explore the Mad River Byway for stunning foliage views. Cycling allows for a more intimate experience of the landscape.
- Hiking: Challenge yourself with the Monroe Skyline hike, a section of the Long Trail offering incredible views.
- Mountain Biking: Enjoy singletrack trails at Sugarbush Resort and Eurich Pond Network.
- Foliage Rides: Take a scenic single chair ride at Mad River Glen for panoramic fall views on select weekends.
- Brewery Visits: Sample local craft beers at celebrated microbreweries in the region.
Travel Tips
- Leaf peeping is popular, especially on weekends. Plan for potential traffic and consider visiting mid-week.
- Check the operating schedule for Mad River Glen’s single chair foliage rides.
- Be prepared for varied weather conditions in the mountains; layers are recommended.
Where to Stay
- Madbush Falls: A new base camp with a bike shop, sauna huts, and creekside tents (available through October), offering direct access to trails.
- Airbnb & Hipcamp: Find cozy cabins and campsites in the Mad River Valley area for a range of budgets and preferences.
4. Northern Michigan
Why Fall is Ideal
Northern Michigan transforms into a fall paradise after the summer crowds depart. While known for its freshwater shoreline in summer, fall reveals a local secret: it’s prime time for hiking, biking, and paddling in places like Petoskey State Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The iconic Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route becomes even more spectacular with fall foliage, best experienced by bike.
Fall is also harvest season in Northern Michigan, bringing pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and corn mazes. Events like Traverse City Beer Week in early November and the Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race add to the autumn appeal.
Things to Do
- Scenic Drives & Cycling: Bike the Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route for stunning fall colors.
- Hiking & Paddling: Explore Petoskey State Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for trails and water activities.
- Harvest Activities: Visit pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and corn mazes at local farms.
- Traverse City Beer Week: Experience local breweries and craft beers during this annual event.
- Iceman Cometh Challenge: Participate in or watch this challenging mountain bike race in early November.
- Biking the TART Trail: Enjoy a flat, paved bike ride from Traverse City to Farm Club, a local culinary destination.
Travel Tips
- Fall is a shoulder season, offering a quieter experience and potentially lower prices.
- Check the timing for Traverse City Beer Week and the Iceman Cometh Challenge if interested in these events.
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially near the lake and in the evenings.
Where to Stay
- Otis Harbor Springs: A renovated mid-century modern hotel along the Tunnel of Trees, offering lake views and a general store.
- D.H. Day Campground: Rustic campsites in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, available until late November (reservations required until mid-October).
- Airbnb & Hipcamp: Explore lodging options in Traverse City and surrounding areas, from charming B&Bs to campsites.
5. Hokkaido, Japan
Why Fall is Ideal
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is gaining popularity beyond its renowned “Japow” snow. Fall reveals a different charm, with mountain biking and cycling taking center stage. Trails and lifts in resort towns like Niseko open to mountain bikers, and spacious roads become ideal for road cycling. Japanese drivers are known for their courtesy towards cyclists.
Hokkaido’s fall landscape is diverse, featuring sparkling lakes, farmland, coastlines, and mountain passes. National parks offer numerous trails to explore amidst amber gingkoes and crimson maples, rivaling Japan’s famous cherry blossoms in beauty. Relax in steamy onsens after outdoor activities and savor seasonal cuisine like salmon and pumpkin ramen.
Things to Do
- Mountain Biking & Road Cycling: Explore trails and roads around Niseko and other areas.
- Hiking: Discover Hokkaido’s six national parks with trails through varied landscapes. Adventure Hokkaido offers guided hiking trips.
- Onsen Experience: Relax in traditional Japanese hot springs (onsens) after outdoor adventures.
- Culinary Exploration: Enjoy local kaiseki meals and seasonal ramen dishes featuring fall ingredients.
- Guided Cycling Tours: Cycling Japan offers scenic and culinary-focused cycling tours.
Travel Tips
- Fall foliage in Hokkaido is as stunning as cherry blossoms, offering a unique autumn experience.
- Japanese cycling rules are strict; cyclists must stop at stop signs and designated lines.
- Consider a guided tour to discover hidden culinary gems and navigate the region effectively.
Where to Stay
- Niseko Konbu Onsen: A 24-room hotel at the foot of Mount Yotei, offering both Western and Japanese-style rooms, onsens, and dining options.
- Hotels.com: Explore a range of hotels in Hokkaido, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, to suit different budgets and preferences.
6. Churchill, Canada
Why Fall is Ideal
Churchill, Manitoba, known as the polar bear capital of the world, becomes a major attraction in fall. From mid-October through November, it hosts the largest concentration of polar bears as they gather along Hudson Bay waiting for sea ice to form for seal hunting. The tundra landscape transforms with crimson and gold hues, providing a striking backdrop for wildlife photography, including polar bears, Arctic foxes, and snowy owls.
Churchill also offers excellent chances to witness the aurora borealis, averaging over 300 nights of auroral activity per year. Fall’s darker skies enhance the Northern Lights viewing opportunities.
Things to Do
- Polar Bear Viewing: Join a guided tour in a Polar Rover or Tundra Buggy to safely observe polar bears in their natural habitat. Natural Habitat Adventures and Frontiers North Adventures are reputable operators.
- Aurora Borealis Viewing: Take advantage of the long, dark nights for potential Northern Lights sightings.
- Wildlife Photography: Capture stunning images of polar bears, Arctic foxes, snowy owls, and the fall tundra landscape.
Travel Tips
- Book polar bear tours well in advance, as fall is peak season in Churchill.
- Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can be very cold, especially in November.
- October and November are ideal for polar bear viewing, with bears being particularly active onshore.
Where to Stay
- Tundra Inn: A simple, conveniently located inn in Churchill with a pub and restaurant.
- Airbnb & Booking.com: Explore limited options in Churchill, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, booking in advance is highly recommended due to limited availability.
7. Grand Valley, Colorado
Why Fall is Ideal
Grand Valley, on Colorado’s Western Slope, is an ultimate autumn playground. This region combines agricultural charm with geological wonders, reminiscent of Sonoma and Moab. It boasts vineyards, singletrack trails rivaling Moab, and the second-largest concentration of natural arches after Arches National Park, along with Colorado National Monument, often called a mini Grand Canyon.
Fall in Grand Valley brings golden vistas, cooler temperatures after the summer heat, and quieter trails as schools are back in session. The towns of Fruita, Palisade, and Grand Junction offer a vibrant après-adventure scene with locavore dining. Fall is also harvest season for Colorado wines, with the Colorado Mountain Winefest in September.
Things to Do
- Mountain Biking: Ride the challenging Palisade Plunge, one of the longest downhill singletrack trails in the US. Palisade Cycle and Shuttle provides services.
- Cycling Wine Tours: Explore the East Orchard Mesa Loop by bike, visiting wineries and farm stands with Grand Mesa views.
- Hiking: Discover trails in Colorado National Monument and around the Grand Mesa.
- Wine Tasting: Participate in the Colorado Mountain Winefest or visit local wineries for high-elevation varietals.
- Culinary Experiences: Enjoy locavore dining in Fruita, Palisade, and Grand Junction, and try local specialties like carrot margaritas at Fidel’s Cocina and Bar.
Travel Tips
- Fall is harvest season for grapes and other produce; enjoy fresh, local food and wines.
- Book shuttles and bike rentals in advance, especially if planning to ride the Palisade Plunge.
- The Colorado Mountain Winefest is a popular event; purchase tickets early if interested.
Where to Stay
- Spoke and Vine Motel: A biking and food-focused motel in Palisade, offering local recommendations.
- Camp Eddy: Tiny homes, Airstreams, and RV hookups in Grand Junction, close to the Colorado River and Las Colonias Park.
- Airbnb & Hipcamp: Find varied lodging options in Grand Valley, from cozy motels to campsites with mountain views.
8. Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Coast
Why Fall is Ideal
While fall is generally considered Costa Rica’s rainy season, the Caribbean coast offers a unique exception. September and October are the driest months on this coast, coinciding with the greenest landscapes and fewer tourists. This “green season” allows for lush jungle scenery (contrasting with the drier, browner dry season) and often better hotel deals. The Caribbean coast, less crowded than the Pacific side, is rich in Afro-Caribbean culture and natural areas like Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and Cahuita National Park.
Fall in Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is ideal for diving and snorkeling in calm, clear waters. By November, surf conditions improve, attracting skilled wave riders to Salsa Brava.
Things to Do
- Snorkeling & Diving: Explore the coral reefs of Cahuita National Park in calm, clear fall waters.
- Wildlife Viewing: Visit Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge to see mangrove oyster beds, manatees, ocelots, and diverse rainforest wildlife.
- Surfing: For experienced surfers, November marks the start of good surf conditions, including Salsa Brava.
- SUP & Kayaking: Enjoy river trips on the Punta Uva River with guides like Surf the Jungle.
- Yoga & Wellness: Relax and rejuvenate at AmaSer yoga studio in Puerto Viejo, offering various classes and a vegetarian restaurant.
Travel Tips
- September and October are the driest months on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, making it ideal for fall travel.
- Hotel deals may be available during the green season.
- Explore the region’s unique Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Aguas Claras: Boho-chic hotel on a forest-fringed beach in Puerto Viejo, known for its local sourcing and amenities like free bikes and snorkel gear.
- Hotels.com: Find a range of hotels along Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Coast, from boutique eco-lodges to beachfront resorts.
9. Tasmania, Australia
Why Fall is Ideal
In Tasmania, September marks the beginning of spring, offering a refreshing travel experience. About half of Tasmania is protected land, rich in unique flora and fauna and over 1,700 miles of trails. Spring brings blooming daffodils, cherry blossoms, and tulips, and increased wildlife activity, including wombats and pademelons. Longer daylight hours and milder temperatures are perfect for hiking coastal trails like the Bay of Fires.
Australian spring is also whale migration season, with southern right and humpback whales passing by Tasmania. Keep an eye out for whale sightings along the coast.
Things to Do
- Coastal Hiking: Hike trails like the Bay of Fires for stunning coastal scenery.
- Wildlife Spotting: Visit Maria Island, nicknamed Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark, for diverse wildlife like kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and wombats. Maria Island Walk offers guided treks.
- Whale Watching: Look for migrating southern right and humpback whales along the coast.
- Explore National Parks: Discover Tasmania’s 19 national parks and numerous bushwalking options.
- Hobart Farm Gate Market: Visit Hobart’s Sunday market for local produce and street food.
Travel Tips
- September to November is spring in Tasmania, offering milder weather and blooming landscapes.
- Tasmania is known for its unique wildlife; plan wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pack for variable weather conditions, as spring in Tasmania can be unpredictable.
Where to Stay
- Pumphouse Point: A unique hotel in a converted 1930s hydroelectricity station at the end of the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain–Lake St. Clair National Park.
- Bay of Fires Bush Retreat: Stylish tents and bunk rooms near surf breaks and mountain bike trails, offering a nature-immersed experience.
- Hotels.com: Explore hotels and unique accommodations in Tasmania, from wilderness retreats to city hotels in Hobart and Launceston.
10. The Scottish Highlands
Why Fall is Ideal
The Scottish Highlands in fall offer solitude, stunning landscapes, and lodging deals as tourist season ends. September sees hillsides still covered in heather, and the pesky midges disappear. October brings russet moors, stag calls, and antler clatter during the annual rut. The Cairngorms National Park, at a similar latitude to Alaska and Norway, offers potential aurora sightings in late September and October due to reduced daylight and clear skies.
Fall in the Scottish Highlands is a cozy experience, with seasonal menus in pubs featuring local lamb, beef, venison, and oysters. Enjoy a dram of local whisky by a roaring fire after a day of exploring.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Explore trails in the Cairngorms and Glencoe, enjoying the fall colors and solitude. Wilderness Scotland offers guided hiking trips.
- Wildlife Watching: Observe the stag rut in October and look for minke whales and porpoises on boat trips along the west coast.
- Aurora Viewing: Take advantage of dark skies in late September and October for potential Northern Lights sightings.
- Whisky Tasting: Warm up with local whisky tastings at distilleries or pubs.
- Culinary Exploration: Savor seasonal Scottish cuisine in pubs and restaurants, featuring local game and seafood.
Travel Tips
- Fall brings fewer crowds and better lodging deals in the Scottish Highlands.
- Pack layers and rain gear as October can be prone to cold spells and rain.
- Check for hunting season closures if planning to stay in mountain bothies.
Where to Stay
- Mountain Bothies: For adventurous hikers, stay in traditional, basic mountain shelters maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association.
- Airbnb: Find cozy cottages and lodges in the Scottish Highlands, offering a range of self-catering options.
11. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
Why Fall is Ideal
Shenandoah Valley and Shenandoah National Park in Virginia become a hiker’s paradise in fall as summer humidity subsides. Over 500 miles of trails, including 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, await exploration amidst mesmerizing fall colors. Skyline Drive offers stunning views, whether driven or biked, but can be crowded. Gravel biking on fire roads and farm roads provides quieter foliage panoramas.
Fall in Shenandoah Valley also brings harvest activities, with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple cider at local farms.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Explore over 500 miles of trails in Shenandoah National Park, including Blackrock Summit for sunset views.
- Scenic Drives & Biking: Drive or bike Skyline Drive for panoramic foliage views (expect crowds). Gravel bike on quieter fire roads and farm roads.
- Gravel Biking Tours: Trek Travel offers guided gravel bike tours of the valley, including challenging climbs to Reddish Knob.
- Rock Climbing: Shenandoah Mountain Guides and Outdoor School offers climbing instruction for beginners.
- Harvest Activities: Visit pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and orchards in the valley towns.
Travel Tips
- Fall foliage is a major draw; expect crowds, especially on Skyline Drive on weekends. Visit early in the day or mid-week for fewer crowds.
- Consider gravel biking for quieter foliage viewing experiences away from Skyline Drive.
- “South District” of Shenandoah National Park is less crowded and offers excellent sunset views.
Where to Stay
- Cabin Rentals: Page Valley is known as the “cabin capital of Virginia,” with numerous Airbnb options like Whispering Woods and Bearloga offering cozy retreats.
- Hotel Madison: A hip hotel in downtown Harrisonburg, serving as a base for Trek Travel’s gravel bike tours.
- Airbnb: Explore a wide range of cabins and homes in Shenandoah Valley, suitable for families and groups.
