This article is about 8 years old

50 small towns across America with gorgeous fall foliage

Discover where to get your foliage fix across the country.

When the air becomes brisk, picturesque small towns draped in amber, yellow and orange tones tempt us to hit the trails, savor leisurely wine tastings and delight in leaf-peeping in classic and lesser-known destinations. Whether you want to soak in colorful vineyards or fresh alpine scenery, slip away to a cozy inn with a crackling fireplace or embrace seasonal delights such as picking pumpkins and sampling apple cider from an orchard, U.S. News pinpointed 50 places to savor the season’s colors and experiences. If you’re ready to plan a foliage-filled escape, read on for scenery-packed getaway ideas.

"Aerial view of fall foliage, Stowe, Vermont, USA"
50. Stowe, Vermont Stowe draws leaf-viewers and thrill-seekers alike to its foliage-filled town each September and October. In autumn, sugar maples are layered with deep crimson and yellow hues, while poplar, elm, birch and hickory trees cast intense golden shades. For optimal viewing, take a scenic drive along Stowe Hollow, weaving past Ben & Jerry’s Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill for a taste of quintessential Vermont. Afterward, enjoy “The Sound of Music”-inspired scenery with a stay at the Trapp Family Lodge or cap off the day with a brewery tour or wine tasting. (Thinkstock)
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"Aerial view of fall foliage, Stowe, Vermont, USA"
Former President Jimmy Carter fishes in the waters in front of his mountain cabin at Ellijay, Georgia, in May 1988. (AP Photo/Joe Holloway, Jr.)
FILE-  This Oct. 21, 2009 file photo shows a car driving past fall foliage in Brown County State Park in Nashville, Ind. While autumn is considered the "shoulder season" in travel, with fewer long-distance and destination trips than other times of year, many Americans make a point of enjoying the mild weather and fall colors on drives, hikes and other local outings.     (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, FILE)
Fall foliage colors appear to be near their peak in Hancock, Maine, as the mountain tops of Acadia National Park are seen in the background on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2007.  (AP Photo/Pat Wellenbach)
Autumn Leaves Pathway HDR
Autumn foliage on Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, at Valley Forge National Historical Park in Valley Forge, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
St. Peter's Catholic Church and historic town buildings.

More from U.S. News

50 Charming Small Towns to Visit Across Every State

The Best Scenic Getaways in Every State

8 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to See Fall Foliage

50 Small Towns Across America With Gorgeous Fall Foliage originally appeared on usnews.com

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