10 Most Beautiful Fall (Autumn) Destinations for Nature Lovers

As autumn colors the world in bright shades, you might find yourself looking for the perfect spots to witness this beautiful change. From the iconic forests of North America to Europe’s charming landscapes, fall offers you a breathtaking display of colors and unforgettable experiences.

1. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, once Japan’s imperial capital, turns into an autumn wonderland every year.

The city’s temples and gardens come alive with rich shades of red, orange, and gold, creating a beautiful scene that feels almost magical.

At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can take in sweeping views of the city dressed in autumn colors.

The maple trees surrounding the temple burst into brilliant reds and oranges, standing out against the dark wood of the building—a sight that leaves a lasting impression.

Just outside the city, Arashiyama offers its own kind of beauty. The famous bamboo grove takes on a warm, golden glow, and from the Togetsukyo Bridge, you get an incredible view of the mountainsides covered in fall colors.

The best time to catch Kyoto’s autumn foliage is usually mid-November.

It’s a perfect season for nature lovers, as Kyoto’s traditional gardens, like Ryoan-ji and Ginkaku-ji, show off their carefully crafted landscapes in all their autumn glory.

2. Adirondack Mountains, New York, USA

The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York are famous for having some of the best fall foliage in North America.

This huge wilderness area covers over six million acres, making it a perfect playground for leaf-peepers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Lake Placid, located right in the middle of the Adirondacks, is a great spot to start your adventures.

The mountains surrounding the lake reflect beautifully in the still waters of Mirror Lake, creating a picture-perfect view filled with autumn colors.

If you’re up for a little adventure, Whiteface Mountain is a must-see. This mountain was home to the 1980 Winter Olympics, and it offers some of the best views of the fall colors from the top.

You can take a scenic drive along the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway or hop on the gondola for a ride that will give you breathtaking sights.

Don’t miss the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, either! It offers a unique way to see the fall colors.

With its elevated walkway, called the Wild Walk, you can stroll through the treetops and get a close-up view of the vibrant autumn leaves.

The best time to enjoy the fall foliage in the Adirondacks is usually from late September to mid-October, but it can vary a bit depending on the weather and how high up you are.

With all kinds of trees like sugar maples, birches, and beeches, the colors are a lively mix of reds, oranges, and yellows that will take your breath away.

3. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a truly special autumn experience.

With its 16 interconnected lakes and beautiful waterfalls, the park transforms into a magical landscape filled with fall colors.

As you walk along the wooden pathways and hiking trails, you can get up close to the stunning natural beauty.

The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the lakes look even more beautiful next to the golden and russet leaves of the beech and maple trees.

Don’t miss Veliki Slap, the park’s largest waterfall. It becomes even more breathtaking in the fall.

The 78-meter drop is surrounded by trees dressed in autumn colors, making it a perfect spot for photographers and anyone who loves nature.

During this season, the park’s wildlife comes to life. You might spot deer, bears, and a variety of birds as they get ready for winter, all set against the vibrant backdrop of fall foliage.

If you’re thinking of visiting, October is usually the best month to see the autumn colors. The cooler weather and smaller crowds make it a wonderful time to explore this natural wonder.

4. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan, China

Jiuzhaigou Valley, tucked away in Sichuan Province, China, is a hidden treasure for anyone who loves fall colors.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its vibrant lakes, stunning waterfalls, and rich plant life.

The valley’s name, which means “Nine Village Valley,” comes from the nine Tibetan villages that used to be in the area.

Today, it’s a protected nature reserve and national park, showcasing some of the most beautiful autumn scenery in China.

One of the park’s star attractions is Five Flower Lake. In the fall, this lake becomes even more magical.

The clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and forests, creating a mirror-like surface that captures all the bright colors of autumn.

The variety of plants in the park, including both broadleaf and coniferous forests, creates a beautiful patchwork of colors.

The golden birch trees stand out against the deep green evergreens and the turquoise lakes, making for a stunning view.

If you’re planning a visit, the best time to see the fall colors is usually from mid-October to early November.

The park’s high elevation, ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 meters above sea level, means that autumn arrives a bit earlier here, giving you more time to enjoy the beautiful foliage.

5. Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley in northern Portugal is a wonderful place to experience autumn, blending stunning natural beauty with a rich cultural history.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its terraced vineyards, which turn a beautiful golden color in the fall.

As the winding Douro River flows through the valley, it reflects the vibrant hillsides, creating a breathtaking view.

You can enjoy this scenery by taking a river cruise or driving along the scenic roads that wind through the area.

During the fall harvest season, the region’s quintas, or wine estates, welcome visitors.

Wine lovers have the chance to join in on grape picking and see the traditional winemaking process up close.

The historic town of Porto, located at the mouth of the Douro River, is a great starting point for your adventure in the valley.

Its colorful buildings and iconic bridges make for a charming backdrop as you explore the area in the fall.

If you’re thinking about visiting, October is the perfect month to experience the autumn colors and the excitement of harvest activities.

With mild temperatures and clear skies, it’s an ideal time for outdoor fun and wine tasting!

6. Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Glacier National Park in Montana is a stunning place to experience autumn, where rugged mountain peaks meet vibrant fall colors.

As the seasons shift, the park’s diverse ecosystems come alive with a breathtaking display of color.

One of the best ways to see the fall beauty is by driving along Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic 50-mile route that cuts through the park.

This winding road offers fantastic views of golden aspens and bright red huckleberry bushes, all set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park, becomes a beautiful mirror for the autumn scenery.

The calm waters reflect the colorful hills, making it a perfect spot for photos—especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is just right.

Fall is also a great time for wildlife viewing. Elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats are more active as they prepare for winter, giving visitors plenty of chances to observe and photograph these amazing animals.

If you’re planning a visit, late September to mid-October is usually the best time to see the fall colors.

Just keep in mind that weather can change quickly during this time, so be prepared for the possibility of snow at higher elevations.

7. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt, a charming village tucked away in the Austrian Alps, turns into a fairytale setting each autumn.

The colorful houses reflect beautifully in the calm waters of Lake Hallstatt, creating a scene that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard.

The nearby Dachstein Mountains light up in warm shades of red, orange, and gold, offering a stunning contrast to the deep blue of the lake.

You can enjoy this breathtaking landscape by taking a boat tour or riding the funicular for sweeping views of the area.

For an unforgettable experience, visit the Hallstatt Skywalk, a viewing platform that rises 350 meters above the village.

Here, you’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of the lake and mountains adorned in their fall colors. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Bohemian Forest!

Don’t miss out on the nearby Dachstein Ice Cave and the world’s oldest salt mine for unique autumn adventures.

With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, this is the perfect time to explore these attractions.

If you’re planning a trip, October is the best month to see Hallstatt in all its fall glory. The crisp mountain air and warm golden light create ideal conditions for photography and outdoor fun!

8. Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada

Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada, is famous for its breathtaking fall colors.

Spanning over 7,600 square kilometers, this vast wilderness offers countless opportunities for leaf-peeping and outdoor adventures.

The park’s diverse forests, filled with sugar maples, red maples, and yellow birches, create a vibrant display of autumn hues.

The colorful deciduous trees stand out beautifully against the dark green of the conifers, making for a striking contrast.

Canoe Lake, a favorite spot for visitors, becomes even more magical in the fall.

You can paddle through its calm waters, surrounded by a dazzling array of autumn colors reflecting on the lake’s surface.

With its extensive network of hiking trails, the park invites you to dive into the fall scenery.

The Lookout Trail is a must-try—though it’s a short and steep hike, the panoramic views of the colorful forest canopy make it worth the effort.

Fall also brings great wildlife viewing opportunities. Moose are especially active during this season, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them foraging near wetlands or lakes.

If you’re planning a visit, late September to early October is usually the best time to see Algonquin Provincial Park in its autumn glory. Be sure to check the park’s Fall Colour Report for the latest updates on the changing foliage!

9. Huangshan (Yellow Mountains), China

Huangshan, or the Yellow Mountains, presents a breathtaking autumn landscape that has inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries.

The region’s unique granite peaks, often enveloped in mist, take on an almost magical quality when framed by the vibrant colors of fall.

The area is rich in diverse vegetation, featuring pine trees, maple trees, and Chinese tallow trees, which together create a beautiful tapestry of autumn hues.

The bright red leaves of the maples contrast strikingly with the golden pines and the grey granite cliffs of the mountains.

One of the highlights of Huangshan is its famous “sea of clouds” phenomenon, where low-lying clouds make it seem as though the mountains are floating.

This stunning effect is especially captivating in autumn when the colorful treetops peek through the mist.

There are plenty of ways to explore the area, thanks to an extensive network of hiking trails and cable cars.

The West Sea Grand Canyon is particularly breathtaking, offering deep valleys and colorful forests that will leave you in awe.

After a day of hiking and leaf-peeping, you can unwind at the Huangshan Hot Springs. The warm, mineral-rich waters are especially inviting in the cool autumn air, making for a perfect way to relax.

If you’re planning a visit, mid-October to early November is usually the best time to experience the fall colors.

The cooler temperatures and clearer skies also create perfect conditions for witnessing the famous Huangshan sunrise!

10. Snowdonia National Park, Wales, UK

Snowdonia National Park in Wales presents a rugged and breathtaking autumn landscape. With its mix of mountains, forests, and coastline, the park offers a stunning backdrop for fall colors.

Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, looks even more impressive surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.

You can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway or hike to the summit for sweeping views of the colorful scenery below.

The Ogwen Valley is particularly beautiful in the fall, with its glacial lakes and towering mountains.

The golden bracken on the hillsides contrasts strikingly with the dark rocks and the blue waters, creating a scene that’s hard to forget.

The park’s ancient woodlands, like Coed y Brenin Forest Park, come alive with deciduous trees in their autumn splendor.

Oak, beech, and birch trees form a stunning canopy of gold and bronze hues overhead.

Just on the edge of the park, Portmeirion is an Italianate village that offers a unique autumn experience.

The colorful buildings and exotic gardens take on a magical quality when surrounded by fall foliage.

If you’re thinking about a visit, October is usually the best time to experience Snowdonia’s fall colors.

The shifting weather patterns create dramatic lighting, making it a perfect setting for landscape photography!