That special time of year is here! Time for pumpkins, scarves, and jumping in the leaves. While the entire state of Maryland is pretty gorgeous during autumn, we're highlighting some of the best spots to view the fall colors. Driving time for this road trip to the best fall foliage in Maryland is a little over 4.5 hours. To give yourself enough time to explore each spot, you may want to make this a weekend trip. We've made it easy to follow along by providing you with this interactive Google Map. Ready to see all the best yellows, reds, and coppers throughout the state? Let's go!

1. Deep Creek Lake

Once named one of the best places to see fall foliage in the entire country, Deep Creek Lake is vibrant with autumnal hues. Whether you're hanging by the lake or driving around the scenic mountain roads, you're sure to be blown away by this special spot, especially during peak fall foliage.

2. Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

On the hunt for fun things to do in fall in Maryland? We reviously wrote about this gorgeous train ride through the mountains, and we just can't get enough of it! Tickets for the autumn tours sell out FAST, so be sure to get yours as soon as possible on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad website.

3. Rocky Gap State Park

Not only does this state park have some of the bluest water in Maryland, but it also offers a plethora of scenic trails. You can explore this park by day to see some of the best fall colors in Maryland or even camp here by night.

4. C & O Canal (Williamsport)

Although the C & O Canal is 184.5 miles in length, this particular stretch in Williamsport is popular with locals. It offers views of the canal, Cushwa Basin, and has the perfect amount of history to keep visitors intrigued. The fall foliage here isn't too shabby either.

5. Walkersville Southern Railroad

The Walkersville Southern Railroad is another favorite train ride through Maryland. Although the views along the railroad are spectacular year-round, it truly glistens during fall. Make sure to purchase tickets in advance by visiting the Walkersville Southern Railroad website.

6. Patapsco Valley State Park

Patapsco Valley State Park has everything an adventure lover needs, especially during autumn. The above photo taken at this beautiful Maryland state park shows the swinging bridge, which is a unique and picturesque experience in the Old Line State.

7. Brookside Gardens

Brookside Gardens has so much to offer year-round, from the butterfly garden during summer, to the Christmas lights during winter. In the fall, the sweeping gardens are transformed into brilliant hues of orange, yellow, and crimson. Visiting this magical spot is a must at least once in your life, especially during peak fall foliage. For more information, visit the Brookside Gardens website.

8. Cedarville State Forest

We think that the Cedarville State Forest is a very underrated spot in Maryland, and its really more like a real-life enchanted forest. Filled with easily accessible trails that are lined with stunning foliage, you may want to spend an entire day exploring this woodland paradise.

Remember, you can follow along with this interactive Google Map. Happy fall, and happier travels!

If you were to do a search for “fall drives near me,” one of these spots would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

What would you add to this road trip to the best fall foliage in Maryland? What other places do you like to explore at this time of the year? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

And if you like to hike, and you can get information about trails along the way by going to the AllTrails app or website.

For another great Maryland trip, be sure to read We Took A Day Trip To Annapolis, Maryland, And Discovered Everything You Absolutely Must Experience.

If you’re still in the mood for more Maryland adventures, take a look at this video: