See Fall in Full Color on These Six Road Trips

Fall is the best time for a road trip. Cooler temperatures, stunning fall colors, and scenic destinations make autumn an ideal season to hit the road. For most areas, peak foliage arrives in mid- to late October and early November, while trips near the Great Lakes may be best in late September or early October. Timing can vary each year depending on temperature, elevation, and rainfall. Here are six scenic fall road trips to consider. When you plan with your AAA membership, you can also benefit from discounts on gas, hotels, and more.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches nearly 470 miles from Asheville, North Carolina, through Virginia, offering spectacular Appalachian Mountain scenery. Plan four to seven days, with October and early November providing prime fall color. Along the way, stop at Whitewater Falls, explore national parks, or enjoy outdoor activities such as zip-lining. Camping spots and cabins make it easy to turn the drive into a longer getaway.

2. Smoky Mountains

Whether you have a few hours or several days, a Smoky Mountains road trip offers plenty to see. Great Smoky Mountains National Park features historic attractions and scenic overlooks, while a longer itinerary can include Cades Cove Loop Road, Cataloochee Valley, and Roaring Fork, where historic buildings provide a glimpse into the area's past. September and October are the best times to experience fall color.

3. Upper Peninsula Scenic Drive

Michigan's Upper Peninsula Scenic Drive, also known as the Lake Superior Circle Tour, delivers spectacular views of Lake Superior and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Plan a September or October trip to explore Tahquamenon Falls State Park, kayak, or canoe, and discover sea caves and sandstone cliffs. Historical stops include the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Fort Wilkins Historic State Park.

4. Tail of the Dragon Highway

For an adventurous fall drive, head to eastern Tennessee’s Tail of the Dragon Highway. The 21-mile route features more than 300 sharp curves and turns as it winds through the mountains, making it a favorite among motorcyclists. October brings vibrant fall color, and the route eventually straightens along the Little Tennessee River, where you'll find a beautiful autumn vista.

5. Northwest Michigan Coastal Road Trip

Nothing quite compares to Northern Michigan in the fall. This 246-mile coastal road trip follows Lake Michigan through farmland, colorful forests, and the state's lakefront resort country. In October, the shoreline sparkles in the low autumn sun while a tunnel of trees creates a spectacular display of crimson and gold.

6. Indiana's Ohio River Scenic Byway

For a shorter fall escape, the 66-mile Ohio River Scenic Byway can be completed in about 90 minutes. Beginning in Newburgh, the route follows the Ohio River into the southern tip of Hoosier National Forest, where fall color lines the drive. The journey ends with scenic river views framed by leaves in shades of red, gold, and orange.

Plan Your Fall Road Trip With AAA

Fall road trips offer beautiful views, relaxation, and fun. Many people travel during this time of year, so it’s best to start planning early, especially if you plan on booking a hotel or renting a car.

The best way to plan your trip is through AAA. When you sign up for AAA membership, you receive various benefits, like discounts on hotel stays and many other benefits. We also make it easy to plan your entire trip and view travel guides, making us your one-stop shop for all your travel needs.

AAA Members Save More with Hertz

Hit the road with more savings and added benefits when you rent with Hertz through your AAA membership.

AAA members can enjoy up to 20% off Hertz base rental rates, plus valuable extras designed to make every trip easier:

• Save on your rental: Get up to 20% off the base rate.

• Add a driver at no extra charge: Qualified AAA members can add an additional driver for free.

• Save on fuel: Get 10% off when you choose Hertz prepaid fuel.

• Young renter savings: The Young Renter fee is waived for eligible AAA members ages 20–24.

• Travel with the family: Get complimentary use of one child safety or booster seat, subject to availability.

• More rewards: Join Hertz Gold+ for free and eligible AAA members can receive a free rental day after their first completed Gold rental.

Simply include your AAA Discount Code (CDP) when making your reservation and present your AAA membership card at the time of rental. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply.

AAA membership and Hertz: more value, more convenience, and more reasons to hit the road.