10 beautiful destinations to see fall colors in 2024

06.09.2024 - 11:00 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 5, 2024 • 5 min read

When the lazy days of summer are over, and the air starts to have a distinct chill, there's no need to be downhearted. Fall is the most spectacular season, the last hurrah before the bitter winds of winter take hold.

Here are the most beautiful places to witness glorious fall colors all around the world.

Fall in Japan is every bit as stunning as the short-lived cherry blossom season in spring. Kouyou (fall leaves) can be seen across the country, starting in the northern island of Hokkaidō and spreading quickly south from the end of September. The ancient capital of Nara, a short train ride from Kyoto, makes a wonderful viewing spot. Its vast park is awash with color, with sensational views of red, gold and yellow leaves along the paths up to Tamukeyama shrine in its northeast corner.

This ancient woodland in Gloucestershire was once used as a royal hunting ground, and its trees were also used to make Tudor warships. Today, it's the perfect spot for the more prosaic sport of leaf peeping. The mix of oak, beech and sweet chestnut provides a rusty riot of yellow and gold. The Forest of Dean can be easily covered on foot or bicycle. Just keep an eye out for the wild boar that have called this place home since 2006. Alternatively, head for one of England's best national reserves or city parks for more autumn color. 

New England is synonymous with fall, and picking one must-see spot isn't easy. But New Hampshire's White Mountains are surely one of the best places to see autumn at its most colorful – not just in New England but the world. Hike through the hills at the start of October, and you'll be treated to brilliant red maple leaves, or drive to Silver Cascade Falls in Carroll County to see the trees glow next to the 250-foot waterfall.

With the leaves on the vines turning and the summer hordes heading home, there's not a better time than fall to visit France's Loire Valley. The rolling vineyards look radiant as they shed the greens of warmer months for the yellows, browns and burnt oranges of autumn. It's also harvest time, so you can see the grapes being picked in the fields before retiring to a cozy spot to take in the view with a glass of the local tipple.

Just because the northeastern USA gets amazing fall colors doesn't mean you should discount the west coast. California's inland forests offer a great alternative, with the reds and yellows of fall holding on longer in the Golden State thanks to its hugely varied elevation. Bishop Creek Canyon is one of a number of great viewing points. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the golden leaves here look amazing with the rocky hills as a backdrop.

Scotland's pine forests might not change color, but its deciduous trees offer some of