I’ve been chasing fall colors for over 10 years, from Vermont’s winding Route 100 to the blazing aspens of California’s Sierra. Every season, the hardest part isn’t finding the best drives or hikes…it’s the planning. Figuring out when to go is tricky. Peak colors shift every year depending on elevation, weather, and even sudden storms. You can plan for October 10th one year and be a week late the next. For years, I pieced together scraps of info from state websites, news reports, and word of mouth…and it always felt like a guessing game. That’s why I built this guide.

My fall foliage planning guide pulls together the most accurate, up-to-date foliage maps and trackers across the United States, all in one place. Whether you’re heading to New England, the Smokies, or the Rockies, you’ll find the exact tools locals use to track peak color. Plus, I’ll share my recommendations on the best destinations, scenic drives, and webcams to check before you hit the road.