by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Wed July 29, 2026
We haven’t even celebrated Labor Day yet, so you may be reluctant to start thinking about fall foliage destinations. But when it comes to travel, it’s always a good time for a little inspiration and intel that can be used at a later date.
With that in mind, the online travel booking platform Priceline has just released a ranking of the top 10 U.S. locations for experiencing peak fall color this year.
Based on an analysis of booking trends on its platform, the list includes some of the most well-known leaf peeping destinations around the country, along with a few slightly less familiar names and locations.
The top destination for leaf peeping in 2026, according to Priceline, is the Adirondacks, New York – a vast and especially picturesque region that encompasses expansive forests, an abundance of farmland, mountains, valleys and lakes.
Translation: One of the most stunning regions of the country for a fall getaway (and my personal favorite)
Also at the top of the list: Columbia River Gorge, Oregon in the number 2 slot, followed by Aspen, Colorado. Both are equally beautiful regions of the country when it comes to the natural landscape and fall foliage.
“The Adirondacks, Columbia River Gorge and Aspen offer three distinct ways to experience fall across the Northeast, Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain West,” Christina Bennett, consumer travel trends expert from Priceline, told TravelPulse.
“The Adirondacks deliver the quintessential Northeast experience, with red and orange foliage, mountain lakes, scenic drives and small towns,” Bennett continued. “The Columbia River Gorge feels more dramatic, pairing fall color with waterfalls and panoramic overlooks.”
In Oregon’s Hood River Valley, meanwhile, the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop, a 35-mile scenic drive, winds past orchards, farm stands, wineries and cideries, pairing foliage with the region’s fall harvest experience.
Finally, Aspen combines golden groves and high-alpine scenery, including the iconic Maroon Bells, with a lively downtown known for its restaurants, arts and culture.”
Looking for some additional fall leaf peeping options? Read on for Priceline’s full list of the top 10 options.
Top 10 U.S. scenic areas for leaf peeping in 2026
Whether you’re interested in visiting the Northeast, the Midwest or the Pacific Northwest, there are plenty of memorable options for a leaf-peeping-themed getaway this year. Here are the top locations to put on your radar, according to Priceline data.
1. Adirondacks, New York
2. Columbia River Gorge, Washington
3. Aspen, Colorado
4. Bucks County, Pennsylvania
5. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
6. Tunnel of Trees, Michigan
7. North Lake Tahoe, Nevada
8. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
9. Stowe, Vermont
10. French Lick, Indiana
Tips for maximizing fall leaf peeping trips
As you plan your fall getaway, remember that peak color can vary across a destination, especially at different elevations, making it important to check local foliage reports ahead of time.
It’s also a good idea to be prepared to adjust your route based on where the color is strongest, advises Bennett.
“Building multiple stops into the itinerary gives travelers more flexibility without having to change the trip itself,” Bennett added.
And remember, popular foliage destinations can book up quickly around peak-color weekends, meaning it pays to plan ahead.
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