28 Aug Top 6 Scenic Drives for New England Fall Foliage

6 Best Places to See Fall in New England

If there’s one thing New England is known for, it’s the fall season. Crisp weather, turning leaves, and seasonal activities can be found throughout the region. New England fall is the epitome of all things cozy, comfortable, and allows visitors to enjoy the unbelievable beauty found outside. For those trying to experience as many autumn activities as possible, here are some of the best New England fall foliage scenic drives you should consider taking this year:

Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway

Southern Berkshires, Massachusetts

The nickname for Route 20 in Massachusetts has been a favorite of visitors and also a part of a National Scenic Byway. Following rivers and streams from Lee town common to the Russell/Westfield town line, this easy 35-mile trip offers beautiful views of the rolling hills and mountains that surround this region. Don’t forget to stop at Berkshire Scenic Railroad and Museum, Canterbury Farms, Chester Railway Station and Museum, Chester Theater Company, and more!

American Independence Byway

Seacoast New Hampshire

Moving away from the mountains and towards the seacoast, this 21-mile New Hampshire byway travels in a loop starting and ending at Hampton Beach. In between, you can enjoy the beautiful downtown area of Exeter which is home to the world-renowned boarding school, Phillips Exeter Academy where the streets are lined with beautiful trees, local shops and restaurants to explore. You’ll then head through Kensington for a country-side experience where you’ll see a number of farms and pristine wildlife before returning to the ocean.

Craftsbury Common and Hazen’s Notch

Northern Vermont

There are over 107-miles to see on this drive that will bring you to covered bridges and a number of historic sites like the old Hazen Military Highway which was built during the Revolutionary War. You’ll get to witness many beautiful mountains, streams, and can even spend some time in the Craftsbury Common Village that has a variety of family-run farms, local artisans and business owners, churches, and recreational activities. It has all the small-town feels you’ve been hoping to find from the moment you entered Vermont.

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway

Northwestern Maine

Take in the 35-miles of lakefront and mountain views in this rural area of Maine. You will follow Route 17 and Route 4 to complete this loop, which brings you around Rangeley Lake and the edge of the Appalachian Mountains. The most impressive place on this drive is at Height of Land where you can look out and see hundreds of miles of mountains, forests, and lakes—you’ll even see into the White Mountains of New Hampshire! Also, take some time to visit the Maine Forestry Museum and explore nearby cities for boat rentals.

Scienic Fairfield County

Southwestern Connecticut

This 115-mile loop takes visitors through the Fairfield County and into the southern part of the Litchfield Hills region which is also beloved for its changing leaves. Starting and ending in Norwalk, this trail leads cars through beautiful Danbury, Roxbury, Woodbury and New Milford you can stop at various farms, antique shops, wineries, and more. These quaint towns are ideal for taking the time to pass by all the local places residents frequent during the fall months and will give you a true taste of New England.