7 Best Places to See Stunning Fall Foliage in the Southern United States
In the South, autumn brings milder temperatures, football season excitement, and indulgent pecan pie. Fall foliage emerges more gradually than in the North but delivers breathtaking displays of crimson, amber, and gold from West Virginia to Georgia and South Carolina. We've curated seven exceptional destinations where peak colors often persist into November. Plan your scenic road trip today.
West Virginia: Sandstone Falls
Discover Sandstone Falls via a well-maintained boardwalk shaded by red and yellow maples, winding past streams and moss-covered rocks to a massive 1,500-foot-wide waterfall. Capture the prime view at the boardwalk's end, where vibrantly colored mountains frame the river. For a more adventurous experience, follow a side path to the riverside beach beneath the falls.
A short drive away in the historic railroad town of Hinton lies a unique Dairy Queen with riverside dining and expansive windows perfect for viewing fall foliage. Savor a Blizzard by the cozy fireplace and sample their signature chili dogs, a local favorite drawing visitors from afar.
Alabama: Lake Lurleen
Crimson dominates Alabama's fall palette, inspired by the University of Alabama's storied football tradition. While Tuscaloosa games beckon, nature lovers should head to Lake Lurleen for a subtler yet striking seasonal show. Vibrant pops of color line the shores of this 250-acre lake and its 23 miles of hiking and biking trails. Rent a fishing boat for bream, catfish, and bass, or paddle out to immerse in the scenery.
Virginia: Skyline Drive
This acclaimed National Scenic Byway stretches 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, featuring 75 overlooks with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont regions. Expect lush golds, greens, vivid reds, and oranges. The full drive takes about three hours; en route, visit Showalter’s Orchard for fresh apples and cider. Stay alert for wildlife like black bears, wild turkeys, and deer crossing the road.
Georgia and Tennessee: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Relax on a four-hour vintage train excursion along the Toccoa River through Chattahoochee National Forest. Opt for an open-air coach to fully experience the crisp autumn air, or choose an enclosed car. The 26-mile round trip departs from Blue Ridge, Georgia, crossing into Tennessee for a two-hour layover in McCaysville and Copperhill—ideal for strolling, shopping, and lunch. Favorites include authentic Cuban fare and rum cakes at Rum Cake Lady, plus lotion candles at Copper Mine Candle Co.
Kentucky: Bernheim Arboretum
Pair bourbon country scenery with fall splendor at the 16,137-acre Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest near Louisville. Forty miles of trails provide intimate views of autumn colors. Annual ColorFest (October 19-20) features hayrides, corn mazes, and a giant pumpkin slingshot, plus towering sculptures by artist Thomas Dambo. Conveniently near the Four Roses Bottling Facility, the preserve was endowed by distiller Isaac W. Bernheim of I.W. Harper fame.
South Carolina: Congaree National Park
Spanish moss transforms to a silvery hue in cooler fall weather, draping live oaks in ethereal beauty at Congaree National Park. Sweetgum, maple, and tupelo trees add brilliant colors to this old-growth floodplain forest, home to some of the nation's tallest and oldest hardwoods, including National Champion trees. Hike 25 miles of trails or follow the accessible 2.4-mile boardwalk.
Arkansas: Arkansas and Missouri Railroad
The Ozark Mountains dazzle with fall color along the Arkansas-Missouri border. A three-hour, 70-mile round-trip on the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad from Van Buren to Winslow navigates bluffs and valleys of the Boston Mountains. Upgrade to a Silver Feather ticket for glass-domed upper-deck views, including thrilling crossings of steep trestles. Conductors enhance the journey with engaging commentary.
