The initial shift from the deep greens of summer to the beautiful red, orange and yellow hues of fall signals the start of leaf-peeping season. Whether you’re looking for a quaint New England getaway or a drive through the brightly colored Rocky Mountains, there are numerous leaf-peeping areas offering breathtaking and memorable views of foliage.
Before heading out on your road trip, be sure you pack all the necessary accessories and equipment to help make the most of your experience. From binoculars to an insulated thermos, these top leaf-peeping items are ideal for any fall vacation.
The first step when planning any leaf-peeping trip is to carefully choose the location.
New England has a reputation for its impressive and eye-catching fall foliage, which is why Vermont and New Hampshire leaf peeping have become so popular. However, all the New England states, from the mountains of Maine to the coast of Rhode Island, offer spectacular autumn scenery.
The Mid-Atlantic states of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania offer just as majestic an experience, with the Adirondack, Catskill and Pocono Mountains as some of the best destinations. Further south, the areas surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains showcase their colors later into the season.
Across the Great Lakes Region, states like Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and Minnesota show off a stunning display of fall colors and crisp, clear weather.
The changing Aspen leaves that turn a radiant yellow cover large patches of the Rocky Mountains from Colorado and Utah to New Mexico. This region offers the most dramatic scenery with towering peaks and steep canyons. However, mountain weather can sometimes be unpredictable.
Prime leaf-peeping dates vary depending on the region, altitude and other environmental factors. Many common leaf-peeping destinations feature convenient color-changing maps, so be sure to check for local leaf-peeping updates. In general, the end of September through October is your best bet.
Hotels and other lodging accommodations can fill up quickly around poplar leaf-peeping destinations, so try to plan ahead to avoid any stressful situations.
You may be tempted to try to see it all, but you’ll likely want to take some time to explore off the beaten path or take a hike through the changing fall leaves. Give yourself enough time to fully enjoy the experience.
Don’t leave home without a few essential leaf-peeping items. Fall weather isn’t always the most reliable, so packing a variety of clothing helps you adjust to whatever the weather throws at you.
Stanley Classic Vacuum-Insulated Wide-Mouth Bottle
For chilly fall days spent outdoors, an insulated thermos helps keep your coffee, tea or hot cider warm for hours. This Stanley thermos is fully leakproof and features a handy lid that you can use as a cup.
Yes, you can find a lot of leaf-peeping information online but having a comprehensive guidebook that features detailed itineraries, local maps and thoughtful recommendations is convenient for times when you find yourself without cell service.
Audubon Society "Field Guide to North American Trees: Eastern Region"
For any true nature lover, having a field guide can help you to effectively identify different species of plants and trees while providing further information to enhance your trip. This Audubon edition provides beautiful pictures of both summer and autumn foliage.
Occer Compact Binoculars With Clear Low-Light Vision
These Occer travel binoculars can easily fit in your bag and are built using durable and waterproof plastic, making them great for all weather conditions. The 12x magnification lets you get an up-close and personal view of faraway autumn leaves and distant groves.
The North Face E-Tip Recycled Glove
Depending on your location, you may not need a pair of gloves, but for chilly fall mornings and nights, these lightweight gloves are a perfect solution. The e-tip design means you can still use your phone or other touchscreen devices without removing them.
With unpredictable weather, it's always better to be prepared than to be exposed to the elements. The acrylic Carhartt Watch Hat is a stylish, comfortable and warm way to keep your head and ears covered when the temperature drops.
Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent
Pesky summer insects such as mosquitoes, flies and ticks likely won’t be as bothersome later in the season, but they can still be a nuisance for some early leaf peepers. This milder insect repellent uses 7% DEET and even contains aloe and vitamin E to help soften your skin.
Canon EOS 4000D Digital SLR Camera
For some fall leaf peepers, a cellphone camera may do the trick, but for anyone wanting to capture the stunning scenery in vivid detail, this Canon DSLR camera is a great entry-level option for aspiring photographers. This convenient bundle includes everything you need, from lenses and memory cards to a tripod.
Baleaf Packable Outdoor Rain Jacket
Even on rainy days, leaf peeping can be beautiful, so don’t let the weather damper your plans. This packable and affordable rain jacket is easy to throw in your pack and forget about until you need it.
Columbia Men's Steens Mountain 2.0 Full-Zip Fleece Jacket
A soft and warm fleece jacket can act as a mid-layer on exceptionally cold days or as a cozy outer layer when there's a slight chill in the air. This one is machine-washable and includes two side hand pockets.
Columbia Women's Fast Trek II Full-Zip Soft Fleece Jacket
Similar to the men’s model but with an additional zippered side sleeve pocket for small essentials, this Columbia fleece jacket is the ideal companion for all of your fall adventures.
Taking scenic drives through the heart of leaf-peeping country is always enjoyable, but wandering down a trail and immersing yourself in the bright colors can add an extra element to your trip. These breathable, waterproof hiking shoes keep your feet dry while also providing a sturdy grip on uneven terrain.
Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Matthew Young writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money
