We have officially entered into the dog days of this sweltering summer heat here in Maryland. Soon enough the wind will grow chilly and crisp, the sky will take on that special blue quality, and perhaps most importantly, the leaves and needles on the trees will start to bronze and fall, creating some of the most spectacular natural beauty we can hope to experience. This also means that it’s time for me to start obsessing over one of my favorite autumn traditions - the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage map.

For the past decade, this handy tool has been available to those of us who like to keep tabs on the county-by-county leaf changes, and the map is incredibly useful if you’re a nature nut who’s trying to plan an excursion to see the magic of autumn saturate the skyline. Today we’ve used it to map out some of the best places to visit if you’re hoping to enjoy this autumnal treat in the Old Line State, and what dates are currently predicted to give you the most bang for your buck.

1. Deep Creek Lake

Maryland’s westernmost county is usually the first to peak when it comes to the brilliant colors of the fall, making it a favorite among eager leaf peepers. Garret County is predicted to reach peak colors a full week before the rest of the state begins to follow suit, and what better way to take in the earliest foliage of the autumn than a stroll through the woods around Deep Creek Lake?

2. Catocin Mountain Park

While Maryland has many incredible state parks to choose from, Catocin Mountain Park offers one of the best views of the fall foliage as you’re likely to get. You can enjoy the view on the lakeshore or venture up the Extended Loop Trail, which will bring you roughly 1,800 feet above the surrounding area for a grand panorama.

3. Frederick

If you’d prefer to stick a little closer to town while you gaze at the trees with wide-eyed wonder, Frederick is a great option. The old town’s historic canal is a beautiful spot to amble about and take in all the sights and smells of the season.

4. Columbia

With bountiful walking paths and multiple lakefronts to paddle along, Columbia is an excellent place to get some recharging outdoor time beneath the gold and red canopy of the trees. There are also tons of chic restaurants where outdoor dining is a must!

5. Cedarville State Forest

Southern Maryland is, of course, not left out of this foliage belt. Cedarville State Forest, just outside of Waldorf, is a remarkably serene place to visit for a swampy twist on the leaf-changing phenomenon. The milder climate makes it an ideal place if you’re the type who wants an escape from the autumn chill.

6. Berlin

Moving across the Chesapeake to Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Berlin is a quaint beach town that peaks after the rest of the state’s leaves have begun to brown. If you’re looking for a colorful Halloween experience, look no further than here!

There is so much to take in when it comes to autumn beauty in Maryland. Check out our list of these ten day trip ideas if you’re priming the camera in anticipation!

Planning on doing some camping while you’re out and about, exploring the change in seasons? Check out Backcountry for deals on all the gear you’ll need!