When autumn rolls in and paints the landscape in reds, oranges, and golds, most travelers head to the usual hotspots like Vermont, the Great Smoky Mountains, or New York’s Adirondacks. But if you’re craving a less crowded leaf-peeping experience, you’re in luck. The U.S. is filled with underrated fall foliage destinations that offer stunning scenery — without the tour buses.
Here are 10 hidden-gem fall foliage destinations in the U.S. for 2025 that most people overlook — but shouldn’t.
1. Talimena Scenic Drive – Oklahoma & Arkansas
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Running through the Ouachita Mountains, this 54-mile scenic byway is a fall color explosion few know about.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid to late October
Don’t Miss:
- Panoramic overlooks from Rich Mountain
- Fall festivals in Talihina and Mena
- Sunset views from Queen Wilhelmina State Park
2. Upper Peninsula – Michigan
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
The UP is a color-packed paradise with forests, waterfalls, and lakes — minus the tourist traps.
Best Time to Visit:
Late September to early October
Don’t Miss:
- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Copper Harbor scenic drives
3. Driftless Area – Southwestern Wisconsin
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
This region escaped the flattening glaciers, leaving behind bluffs, valleys, and winding rivers all ablaze with fall color.
Best Time to Visit:
Early to mid-October
Don’t Miss:
- Scenic Highway 33
- Effigy Mounds and local apple orchards
- Great River Road views along the Mississippi
4. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway – New Mexico
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Golden aspens blanket the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a unique high desert-meets-mountain autumn landscape.
Best Time to Visit:
Late September to mid-October
Don’t Miss:
- Driving the 83-mile loop from Taos
- Autumn hikes near Eagle Nest
- Hot air ballooning with fall colors below
5. Blue Ridge Highlands – Southwestern Virginia
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
While North Carolina gets all the Blue Ridge glory, Virginia’s section is equally stunning — and far less crowded.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid to late October
Don’t Miss:
- Grayson Highlands State Park (wild ponies!)
- Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
- The Crooked Road musical heritage trail
6. Trinity Alps Wilderness – Northern California
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Towering evergreens meet blazing maple and oak trees in this overlooked alpine region of Northern California.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid to late October
Don’t Miss:
- Hiking Canyon Creek Lakes Trail
- Views from Scott Mountain Summit
- Fall fishing along Trinity River
7. Ozark National Forest – Arkansas
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
A rustic, quiet escape with dramatic ridges, waterfalls, and a rainbow of hardwood trees.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid to late October
Don’t Miss:
- Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
- Scenic Byway 7
- Mount Magazine State Park
8. Great Basin National Park – Nevada
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
A desert park might not scream “fall foliage,” but the quaking aspens here rival Colorado’s best, with almost no crowds.
Best Time to Visit:
Late September to early October
Don’t Miss:
- The Alpine Lakes Loop Trail
- Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive
- Stargazing during fall’s crisp nights
9. Mount Hood National Forest – Oregon
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Most come for summer hikes or winter skiing, but fall turns this area into a quiet haven of color and reflection.
Best Time to Visit:
Late September to mid-October
Don’t Miss:
- Trillium Lake views of Mount Hood framed in fall colors
- Lost Lake Scenic Drive
- Fruit Loop farm stands in nearby Hood River Valley
10. Columbia River Gorge – Washington Side
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Oregon’s side gets all the fame, but the Washington side of the gorge offers equal beauty and far fewer crowds.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid to late October
Don’t Miss:
- Fall hikes at Beacon Rock and Cape Horn
- Autumn reflections at Catherine Creek
- Fruit markets along Highway 14
Tips for a Peaceful Fall Getaway in 2025
- Go midweek to avoid weekend traffic even in low-key destinations.
- Book early — fall travel is gaining popularity, even for hidden gems.
- Layer up — temps can shift quickly in mountain or northern areas.
- Support local — grab cider, pies, and souvenirs from roadside stands and farmers’ markets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to soak in fall’s vibrant beauty without the crowds, these lesser-known destinations offer the perfect autumn escape. Whether you want to hike through golden forests, cruise quiet byways, or relax with a mug of cider by the lake, 2025 is the year to explore the foliage most travelers miss.