We’re quickly approaching my favorite time of year, leaf-peeping season. In just a few weeks, we will see the beautiful kaleidoscope of colors drape across the majority of the country. I’m sure you’re just as ready to see cooler temperatures as I am, but when do the leaves change color in the U.S. for 2023? Well, fall in the United States varies greatly depending on what part of the country you’re in. 

Take a look at the map below. You can click on any of the dates at the bottom and see how the fall foliage is predicted to look. Pretty neat, right?

According to the Smoky Mountain fall foliage map, parts of the United States will begin to see the leaves change color as early as September 11th.
Shoveir Ansari / Moment Collection via Getty Images
This is especially true for areas running along the Canadian border. As the weeks progress, the fall foliage colors will spread further south.
The week of September 18th will be a good starting point for areas in northern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota.
Kevin Doe/Google Reviews
Glacier National Park should be near peak colors around this week, so if you’re planning a road trip, make a mental note for this week!
The USA fall foliage map for 2023 estimates that the majority of the northern states should be near peak during the week of September 25th.
Lavin Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
Of course, one cold snap and a hard breeze could change everything! Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and flexibility is key to leaf-peeping.
The first week of October is when fall in the U.S. really shows off.
Naphat Photography / Moment Collection via Getty Images
Especially in New England. New England is known for its epic fall foliage, and folks come from all over the world to witness it. Take a road trip through Vermont, hop on a fall foliage train ride, or make your way through some of the best state parks in Maine to see the fall foliage.
As we make our way further south, we’ll begin to see the Blue Ridge’s fall foliage.
Jaredkay / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
Mark your calendars for the week of October 9th to see the fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. You’ll want to plan a road trip for this one, and there are plenty of viewpoints along the highway where you can pull off and admire the views, or tackle one of the many scenic hiking trails.
By the week of October 16th, the majority of the United States will be in various states of partial or peak fall foliage, especially in the west.
Jordan Midgley/Google Reviews
The western side of America is one of the most underrated places to see the fall foliage, making it perfect for folks who want to lose the crowds. Millcreek Canyon in Utah is extraordinary during this time of year!
As we move toward the end of October, the South joins the party.
JeremyMasonMcGraw.com / Moment Collection via Getty Images
Arkansas, in particular, really shines during the fall! Head over to the Natural State and get lost in the Ouachita Mountains, or spend a day exploring Mount Magazine State Park and drive up to the highest point in Arkansas to get a bird’s eye view.

As you can see, fall in the U.S. is different for every state! To get the most out of your leaf-peeping experience, try to be as flexible as possible. One old front could move the timeline forward by a week or two, so you’ll want your calendar to be as open as possible so you can jump in the car and enjoy the views. Happy leaf peeping!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles