Ahh, fall. My favorite season of them all, for so many reasons one of which is nature! As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, fall is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings. Across the United States, each state has its special spot to experience the magic of autumn on foot. From the brilliant reds of New England’s maples to the golden aspens in the Rockies, there’s a trail for everyone to fall in love with this season. In this guide, we’ve handpicked the best fall hiking trails in the U.S., one in each state, offering peaceful walks through colorful forests and challenging hikes with stunning views. So, grab your favorite sweater, lace up your boots, queue up your Alltrails Plus membership, and get ready to explore the country’s most beautiful autumn landscapes!
Alabama - Overlook Trail, Birmingham
Kicking it off, we have the Overlook Trail via Quarry Trail in Alabama, a hidden gem within Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, This moderate 2.4-mile trail takes hikers through verdant forests and past remnants of old quarries, leading to a stunning overlook of Birmingham’s skyline. The trail is especially beautiful in the fall, with vibrant foliage providing a colorful backdrop.
Alaska - Portage Pass Trail, Whittier
The Portage Pass Trail in Alaska is a magical autumn adventure that offers some of the most stunning views in the state. This 4-mile round-trip trail near Whittier takes you through lush greenery and up to Portage Pass, where you’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Portage Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The trail is moderately challenging, with a steady ascent, but the incredible scenery makes every step worthwhile. It’s a must-do hike for anyone visiting Alaska.
Arizona - Blue Wash Trail to Camp Creek Falls, Scottsdale
The Blue Wash Trail to Camp Creek Falls in Arizona offers a serene desert escape just outside Cave Creek. This 2.8-mile out-and-back trail takes you through a scenic canyon, dotted with saguaro cacti and dramatic rock formations. The real treat is the hidden Camp Creek Falls, a tranquil waterfall that provides a refreshing surprise at the end of your hike. It’s an easy and peaceful trail, making it a perfect adventure for hikers of all levels.
Arkansas - Kings River Falls Trail, Witter
Enjoy autumn hiking on the Kings River Falls Trail in Arkansas, showcasing the Ozarks' beauty. This easy 2-mile round-trip trail follows the Kings River through a forest bursting with vibrant autumn colors. The highlight is the stunning Kings River Falls, which cascades over a rock ledge into a serene pool. The combination of fall foliage and the gentle sound of the waterfall creates a peaceful and scenic hike.
Northern California - McCloud Waterfalls Trail, McCloud
Hiking the McCloud Waterfalls Trail in McCloud, California, during fall is a magical experience. This 3.5-mile round-trip trail winds along the McCloud River, leading to three stunning waterfalls: Lower, Middle, and Upper McCloud Falls. In autumn, the trail is surrounded by vibrant foliage, with the colorful leaves contrasting beautifully against the cascading waters. The cool, crisp air and the sound of rushing water create a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal fall hike for nature lovers.
Southern California - Iron Mountain Trail, Poway
During the fall season, the Iron Mountain Trail in Poway, California, offers a refreshing escape with stunning views. Trek the 5.2-mile round-trip trail, which is popular for its panoramic vistas of San Diego County. As you ascend, you’ll pass through chaparral and rocky terrain, with the fall colors adding a warm touch to the landscape. When you pepper in the cooler temperatures, it truly makes the hike more enjoyable and a seasonal favorite.
Colorado - Shanahan, Big Bluestem and Mesa Trail Loop, Boulder
The Shanahan, Big Bluestem, and Mesa Trail Loop in Boulder, Colorado, is a fantastic fall adventure for m moderate hikers. This 5.7-mile loop offers varied scenery, from flourishing forests to open meadows with stunning mountain views. In autumn, the vibrant foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape. The moderate trail is perfect for enjoying the crisp fall air and the beautiful seasonal transformations of the Rocky Mountains.
Connecticut - Schaghticoke Mountain via Appalachian Trail, South Kent
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Connecticut. This is why we recommend the Schaghticoke Mountain via the Appalachian Trail in South Kent. This 4.5-mile out-and-back trail ascends through dense forest, offering a beautiful summit with expansive views of the Housatonic River Valley.
Delaware - Prickly Pear Trail, Ocean View
Hitting the Prickly Pear Trail in Ocean View, Delaware, during fall is a delightful experience even for beginner hikers! This easy 3.5-mile loop winds through the beautiful James Farm Ecological Preserve, where autumn brings a mix of warm colors to the coastal landscape. The trail meanders through different habitats, including salt marshes, forests, and sandy beaches along the Indian River Bay. The cooler fall temperatures are perfect for a leisurely outdoor adventure to welcome the season.
Florida - Bolen Bluff Trail, Micanopy
The Bolen Bluff Trail in Micanopy, Florida, offers a serene fall hike through the thriving canopy of Paynes Prairie Preserve. This 4-mile loop trail features mixed landscapes, including wetlands and upland forests, with vibrant autumn colors enhancing the scenery. As you traverse the trail, you may spot various wildlife, known as the primary draw for visitors to this preserve!
Georgia - Mount Yonah Trail, Cleveland
This 4.4-mile out-and-back along the Mount Yonah Trail in Cleveland, Georgia, is a breathtaking experience. This hike leads to a summit with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which we already know is prime leaf-peeping country! The fall foliage adds a vibrant array of colors to the landscape, making the ascent even more picturesque.
Hawaii - Mānoa Falls Trail, Honolulu
It doesn't get much better than the Mānoa Falls Trail in Honolulu, Hawaii. This 1.6-mile round-trip trail takes you through a verdant rainforest to the stunning Mānoa Falls. While Hawaii’s climate remains mild year-round, the fall season brings a unique opportunity to enjoy the falls with fewer crowds. The trail’s vibrant foliage and serene atmosphere make it a refreshing escape into nature.
Idaho - Volcanic Badlands Loop, Hells Half Acre Wilderness
The Volcanic Badlands Loop in the Hells Half Acre Wilderness, Idaho is a striking adventure that comes alive during fall. This 3.5-mile loop trail takes you through a rugged landscape of lava flows and volcanic formations, offering otherworldly scenery. In autumn, the cooler temperatures and unique terrain create a captivating backdrop. The trail’s stark beauty and geological features make it a memorable hike for those seeking a more unconventional fall experience.
Illinois - Cove Hollow Trail, Pomona
The Cove Hollow Trail in Pomona, Illinois is a 3.2-mile loop that winds through the Shawnee National Forest, offering scenic views of colorful autumn foliage and rich terrain. The trail’s gentle ascent leads you through woodlands and along creek beds, providing a peaceful and picturesque hike. The fall season adds a vibrant touch to this serene natural escape. Make sure to stick around for the sunset for an added pop of color!
Indiana - Cowles Bog Trail, Dune Acres
The Cowles Bog Trail in Dune Acres, Indiana, is a 3.6-mile loop trail exploring the different landscapes, including wetlands, prairies, and oak savannahs. As you hike, you'll encounter scenic vistas, native wildlife, and a variety of plant life. The trail's combination of natural beauty and serene environment makes it a great choice for enjoying a peaceful day in nature. This trail is open year-round AND your fur friends are welcome to enjoy it with you!
Iowa - Brown's Woods Trail, West Des Moines
The Brown's Woods Trail in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a 5.3-mile loop trail through a picturesque woodland, showcasing vibrant autumn foliage and serene surroundings. The trail offers a mix of rolling hills and quiet forest paths, making it ideal for a peaceful hike. The fall colors enhance the natural beauty tremendously. Plus, this is a very popular area for birding, so keep your eyes peeled!
Kansas - Badger Creek West Loop, Fall River
Trekking the Badger Creek West Loop in Fall River, Iowa, during fall is a scenic treat for moderate hikers. This 7.2-mile loop trail traverses assorted landscapes, including woodlands and prairies, with enchanting autumn colors magnifying the experience. The trail follows the shoreline of Badger Creek, offering peaceful water views and wildlife sightings.
Kentucky - Cumberland Falls via Eagle Falls Trail, Parkers Lake
The Cumberland Falls via Eagle Falls Trail in Parkers Lake, Kentucky is one of the best hiking experiences you can have during fall. This 3.2-mile out-and-back trail leads you to the majestic Cumberland Falls, with vibrant autumn foliage adding to the scenic beauty. Along the way, you'll pass Eagle Falls, enhancing the picturesque landscape. The trail’s moderate challenge makes it the perfect blend of scenery and exercise!
Louisiana - Bogue Chitto State Park Gorge Run Trail, Franklinton
The Gorge Run Trail at Bogue Chitto State Park in Franklinton, Louisiana, is a standout for its multifaceted natural beauty. This 5.7-mile loop takes hikers through abundant hardwood forests, serene streams, and the park's impressive gorge, offering a variety of landscapes to explore. Along the trail, you'll encounter incredible views (bring a camera!), varied wildlife, and vibrant seasonal foliage, especially stunning in the fall.
Maine - Douglas Mountain Loop, Sebago
The Douglas Mountain Loop in Sebago, Maine, offers a rewarding autumn hike with its stunning natural beauty. This 2.2-mile loop trail is known for its highlight: the summit, where the iconic stone tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and forests. In fall, the vibrant foliage adds a splash of color, making the hike even more picturesque.
Maryland - Lake Habeeb Lakeside Loop, Flintstone
Hiking the Lake Habeeb Lakeside Loop in Flintstone, Maryland, offers a peaceful 8-mile journey around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Habeeb. The trail is relatively easy, with gentle terrain, making it perfect for a leisurely hike. Plus, many visitors to this lake can also incorporate mountain biking, paddle sports, and more!
Massachusetts - Ravenswood Park Trail, Gloucester
The Ravenswood Park Trail in Gloucester, Massachusetts, during fall, offers a rich and immersive experience. In autumn, the park comes alive with vibrant foliage, making it an ideal time to explore. The crisp air and colorful scenery enhance the tranquility and beauty of the hike. Trek the 2.5-mile loop, generally considered easy, and enjoy all the stunning views.
Michigan - Lake of the Clouds, Ontonagon
Looking for a short but sweet 1.8-mile out-and-back in Michigan? Check out the Lake of the Clouds Trail in Ontonagon. This is a very popular trail for hiking, running, and even birding, but the best time to visit is from September through November. Not only will the weather be much cooler, but you'll see the beauty of nature up close.
Minnesota - Silver Creek Trail, Carlton
When you trek along the Silver Creek Trail in Carlton, Minnesota, you'll enjoy a rewarding journey and an easy loop hike in Jay Cooke State Park. This 3.5-mile trail is known for its beautiful views of the forest, rocky outcrops, and the picturesque Silver Creek. The trail features a mix of terrain, from easy pathways to more rugged sections, making it suitable for various skill levels. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sounds of the creek, spot wildlife, and take in the vibrant foliage, especially in the fall.
Mississippi - Clark Creek Trail to Waterfall Trail, Woodville
Hiking the Clark Creek Trail to Waterfall Trail in Woodville, Mississippi, is an absolute must. This 4.2-mile round-trip trail takes you through the rugged and scenic Clark Creek Natural Area, known for its steep hills and dense hardwood forests. The highlight of the hike is the series of beautiful waterfalls, with over 50 small cascades and several larger falls to explore. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep and uneven terrain, but the stunning views and cool, shaded environment make it worth the effort.
Missouri - Mina Sauk Falls Trail, Ironton
The Mina Sauk Falls Trail in Ironton, Missouri, is a 3-mile out-and-back hike through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This moderate trail leads to Missouri’s highest waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, cascading over rugged granite formations. The path includes rocky, steep sections but rewards hikers with stunning views and a serene setting. Fall colors enhance the experience, making it a picturesque and invigorating outdoor adventure.
Montana - Blodgett Canyon Overlook Trail, Hamilton
The Blodgett Canyon Overlook Trail in Hamilton, Montana, is a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike offering stunning views of Blodgett Canyon and the surrounding Bitterroot Mountains. The trail is moderately challenging but worth it once you reach the highlight of the trip. At the overlook, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the canyon's dramatic cliffs and sprawling valleys.
Nebraska - Lover's Leap and East Red Cloud Buttes Loop, Crawford
The Lover's Leap and East Red Cloud Buttes Loop in Crawford, Nebraska, offer stunning fall foliage views. This 7-mile loop trail winds through the picturesque Pine Ridge region, featuring vibrant autumn colors amid rugged buttes and canyons. The trail provides sweeping vistas of the changing leaves and expansive landscapes. This might sound long compared to other hikes, but nature's rewards are worth it.
Nevada - Eagle's Nest Trail, Spring Mountains
Want to escape the Nevada desert? We have you covered along the Eagle's Nest Trail, just 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas. A great fall hiking trail located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, this 2.7-mile round-trip trail offers stunning views of Mount Charleston, with its fall foliage of pinyon-juniper woods and shrubs, including curl-leaf mountain mahogany and banana yucca. The hike is moderately challenging and closed during winter, so make sure to visit before then!
New Hampshire - Artist Bluff Trail, Franconia
Hiking the Artist Bluff Trail in Franconia, New Hampshire, during fall is an out-of-this-world adventure. This short and sweet 1.5-mile loop trail offers stunning panoramic views of the colorful fall foliage over the Franconia Notch region. The moderate climb leads to a viewpoint that showcases vibrant autumn colors amidst rugged mountain scenery. Talk about a picture-perfect moment!
New Jersey - Mount Tammany via Red Dot and Blue Dot Loop Trail
The Mount Tammany via Red Dot and Blue Dot Loop Trail in New Jersey is a challenging 4.5-mile loop offering spectacular views of the Delaware Water Gap. The Red Dot Trail provides a steep ascent with rugged terrain, leading to a scenic summit. The Blue Dot Trail loops back with more moderate terrain. Fall hikes here are particularly stunning, with vibrant foliage enhancing the panoramic vistas.
New Mexico - Fourth of July and Cerro Blanco Loop, Torreon
The Fourth of July and Cerro Blanco Loop near Torreon, New Mexico, is a scenic 7.5-mile loop trail offering diverse landscapes and moderate challenges. The trail combines the Fourth of July Trail and the Cerro Blanco Trail, leading hikers through rolling terrain, expansive meadows, and forested areas. However, you can separate the two trails if you're interested in a shorter trek.
New York - Bonticou Crag Trail, High Falls
The Bonticou Crag Trail in High Falls, New York, is a spectacular hike, especially in autumn. This 5.2-mile out-and-back trail takes you through the Shawangunk Ridge, leading to the impressive Bonticou Crag. The ascent includes some scrambling over boulders, but the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort. The crisp autumn air and colorful landscape make this hike particularly memorable.
North Carolina - Moores Wall Loop, Danbury
The Moores Wall Loop in Danbury, North Carolina, is a beautiful 4.6-mile loop hike in Hanging Rock State Park. The trail itself is the perfect blend of rugged rock formations, hardwood forests, and sweeping vistas. In fall, the trail is especially picturesque, with vibrant foliage adding a splash of color to the landscape. The trail features a moderate climb to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
North Dakota - Little Missouri State Park Loop, Killdeer
The Little Missouri State Park Loop near Killdeer, North Dakota, is a scenic 6-mile trail offering a unique glimpse into the region's rugged terrain. This loop trail meanders through the Little Missouri River Badlands, showcasing striking rock formations, canyons, and diverse wildlife. The landscape is marked by dramatic geological features and expansive views, that when paired with the changing of the seasons, really bring the area to life.
Ohio - Blue Hen Falls, Peninsula
The Blue Hen Falls Trail in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio, is a captivating hike, especially in the fall. This 1.5-mile out-and-back trail takes you through a picturesque forest with vibrant autumn foliage. The trail leads to Blue Hen Falls, a charming 15-foot waterfall cascading over a rocky ledge. During fall, the surrounding trees are adorned with brilliant colors, creating a mosaic of color in every direction.
Oklahoma - Friends Trail Loop, Broken Bow
The Friends Trail Loop in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, is a scenic and moderately challenging hike within the Ouachita National Forest. This 6.5-mile loop trail provides beautiful views of the surrounding forest and seasonal changes, making it particularly charming in fall with vibrant foliage. It’s a well-loved trail for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rewarding hike.
Oregon - Spencer Butte Trail, Eugene
The Spencer Butte Trail in Eugene, Oregon, is my personal favorite, simply because of the vista views at the top. This 5-mile out-and-back trail ascends Spencer Butte, a prominent peak in the Willamette Valley. The trail winds through the forest, culminating in a summit with panoramic vistas of Eugene, the surrounding valley, and the distant Cascade Mountains. The hike is moderately challenging, with a steady incline, but the breathtaking views from the top make it well worth the effort.
Pennsylvania - Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Loop, Sweet Valley
This 7.2-mile loop trail takes you through Ricketts Glen State Park, featuring over 20 stunning waterfalls cascading through leafy forested terrain. The trail includes rugged sections with steep ascents and descents, but the spectacular views of the falls, especially during the vibrant autumn season, make the effort worthwhile.
Rhode Island - Long Pond Woods Trail, Hope Valley
The Long Pond Woods Trail in Hope Valley, Rhode Island, is a delightful hike during autumn. This 3.6-mile loop trail winds through the serene woodlands of Arcadia Management Area, offering a peaceful retreat without much of a heavy lift. As you traverse the trail, you'll enjoy views of colorful leaves, tranquil ponds, and diverse wildlife. The gently rolling terrain and crisp autumn air make it an ideal setting for a relaxing and scenic fall hike.
South Carolina - Raven Cliff Falls Trail, Cleveland
The Raven Cliff Falls Trail in Cleveland, South Carolina, is not to be confused with Raven Cliff Falls in Georgia! Located within Caesars Head State Park, this 4-mile round-trip trail leads hikers through the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail culminates at an overlook of the breathtaking 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in South Carolina. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the region, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
South Dakota - Hell Canyon Trail, Custer
Sounds like it fits in perfectly with the fall season, right? The Hell Canyon Trail in Custer, South Dakota, offers a scenic hike through the Black Hills. This 6.2-mile out-and-back trail takes you through striking rock formations, dense forests, and along picturesque creek beds. The trail’s diverse terrain and moderate difficulty provide a rewarding adventure, plus the autumn fall foliage really makes the experience shine.
Tennessee - Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Trail, Hartford
We highly recommend hiking Mouse Creek Falls via the Big Creek Trail in Hartford, Tennessee, during fall. This 7.4-mile out-and-back trail in the Great Smoky Mountains features vibrant autumn foliage along its route. The trail follows Big Creek to the picturesque Mouse Creek Falls. When we say that one of the best places to see fall foliage is in the Great Smoky Mountains, you better believe us!
Texas - McKittrick Canyon Trail, Salt Flat
The McKittrick Canyon Trail in Salt Flat, Texas, is a spectacular fall hike. This 6.8-mile out-and-back trail in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers stunning views of the canyon’s vibrant autumn colors. As you trek through the canyon, you’ll encounter a mix of stunning foliage, striking rock formations, and seasonal changes.
Utah - Ghost Falls Trail, Draper
The Ghost Falls Trail in Utah is seasonal and not just for the spooky name. This 2.5-mile out-and-back hike is known for its captivating waterfall and scenic beauty. Located in the Wasatch Range near Salt Lake City, the trail features a moderate climb through differing landscapes. The highlight is the picturesque Ghost Falls, which is especially stunning when framed by seasonal foliage, making it a rewarding and visually appealing hike.
Vermont - Owl's Head Mountain Trail, Marshfield
Visiting the Owl's Head Mountain Trail in Vermont during autumn is a fantastic choice due to the trail's breathtaking fall foliage. The 5.2-mile round-trip hike offers stunning panoramic views of the Green Mountains, which are beautifully adorned with autumn colors. The crisp fall air and colorful scenery create a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the hiking experience.
Virginia - Apple Orchard Falls Trail, Buchanan
The Apple Orchard Falls Trail in Buchanan, Virginia, is a perfect fall hike, not just due to its name. This 2.8-mile out-and-back trail takes you through the scenic George Washington National Forest, where fall transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The trail leads to the impressive Apple Orchard Falls, which what could be better than a waterfall surrounded by autumn leaves?
Washington - Spruce Railroad Trail, Joyce
The Spruce Railroad Trail near Joyce, Washington, might be our longest trail on this list, but it's still categorized as easy. This 11.2-mile out-and-back trail runs along the northern edge of Olympic National Park, following an old railroad route. The trail features stunning views of Lake Crescent, an old-growth forest, and diverse wildlife. The relatively flat path makes it accessible for hikers of all levels, providing a peaceful and picturesque trek with beautiful lake vistas and forested surroundings.
West Virginia - Valley Falls via Rocky and Rhododendron Trail
Hiking the Valley Falls via Rocky and Rhododendron Trails in West Virginia offers a scenic 5.5-mile adventure. Expect to traverse through rocky outcrops and vibrant rhododendron thickets. The trail leads to the beautiful Valley Falls, where cascading water creates a picturesque backdrop. The moderate hike provides both forested pathways and striking water views, especially captivating in the fall months.
Wisconsin - Ice Age Trail, West Bend
The Ice Age Trail in West Bend, Wisconsin, in autumn is a truly immersive experience. This segment of the trail winds through the picturesque Kettle Moraine State Forest, showcasing stunning fall foliage with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The trail features unique glacial landscapes, including rolling hills and kettles, providing a scenic backdrop to the chilly autumn air.
Wyoming - Oxbow Bend Overlook
The Oxbow Bend Overlook in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is stunning in autumn. This viewpoint offers breathtaking reflections of the Teton Range in the Snake River, framed by vibrant fall foliage. The area’s rich reds, oranges, and yellows contrast beautifully with the serene waters and rugged mountains. The crisp autumn air and scenic views make it a prime spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. Fees to enter do apply.
How many of these falling hiking trails in the U.S. have you already tackled? Wouldn't it be fun to make a bucket list and try them all?! Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way you can get even more information before you start your journey.
Need some help shopping for essentials? Check out our ultimate hiking packing list, perfect for all different types of hiking trips!
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