Grab a sweater, sip some apple cider and get the heck out of your house. It's leaf peeping season, people!
There are officially 13 weekends of fall, so it's time to book a weekend getaway to an autumnal paradise. Based on tons of user reviews, travel site TripAdvisor put together a list and descriptions of the top 10 U.S. destinations to visit for some beautiful foliage.
Delightful small towns and quaint villages covered in shades of red, orange and gold await all over the country. Be prepared to picnic, hike or even zip line through the season's most beautiful scenery in the locations listed below. Seriously, what are you waiting for?
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10
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
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"Travelers visiting the Great Smoky Mountains can immerse themselves in nature as they gaze at the magnificent autumnal foliage from elevations of 4,000 feet. While some prefer to explore the leaves on foot, thrill-seekers are invited to enjoy the foliage while zip-lining through the canopy."
9
Portland, Oregon
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"In addition to its vibrant downtown area, Oregon’s largest metropolis boasts 5,000 acres of woodlands within its city limits. Travelers can peruse the forest while enjoying a kaleidoscope of foliage. While you're there, visit Multnomah Falls, which is about a 40 minute drive along the Columbia River."
8
Greenville, South Carolina
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"Combining traditional southern charm with natural beauty and a temperate climate, Greenville offers a host of outdoor activities perfect for leaf-peeping, including hiking and picnicking."
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7
Asheville, North Carolina
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"Boasting one of the world’s longest fall foliage seasons, Asheville is known for its impressive scenery. Travelers can view the colored tree-tops while whitewater rafting, mountain biking or hiking along the tranquil paths of the Blue Ridge Mountains."
6
Park City, Utah
"Known for its world-class ski trails, Park City is also a fantastic destination for viewing the colors of autumn. Before the snowfall, the peaks of the Wasatch Range produce a panoramic display of stunning color that shouldn’t be missed."
5
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
"Secluded in the Ozark Mountains, this peaceful hideaway boasts a charming downtown area with unique shops and eateries. Outdoor enthusiasts can marvel at the vibrant vegetation while canoeing the Kings River or exploring the meandering mountains on foot."
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4
Niagara Falls, New York
"Home to one of America’s first iconic landmarks, Niagara Falls, this unique locale shares more than a cascading waterfall. Travelers flock to view dazzling fall foliage that can be seen in the state park that offers more than 400 acres of lush landscape and wildlife."
3
Aspen, Colorado
"Seated in the Rocky Mountains, this alpine oasis offers year-round recreation for travelers of all ages. During the fall, guests are invited to bike, hike or walk along the peaks where they will enjoy the natural splendor of the trees turning shades of gold, crimson and tangerine."
2
North Conway, New Hampshire
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"Offering more than 700,000 acres of protected forest, North Conway is a spectacular venue for viewing fall color. Travelers can hike the trails of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, or drive along the Kancamagus Highway where they will see the seasonal sights from their car."
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1
Stowe, Vermont
"Located in the majestic Green Mountains, this idyllic New England town boasts a 200-year-old village lined with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants where travelers can unwind after a day of viewing vibrant leafy displays."
This article has been updated to note activities more conveniently located to Eureka Springs.
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