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These Gorgeous Fall Hiking Trails Offer the Best Views of Autumn Leaves Across the U.S. and Canada

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 15:51 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Fall’s Finest: The 14 Best Hiking Trails Across the US and Canada (2024)

Every autumn, when the leaves are a riot of amber, crimson, and gold, the best places to hit the trail are transformed into living canvases. Travel + Leisure’s recent roundup of the “Best Fall Hiking Trails in the US and Canada” takes the reader on a cross‑border tour of the most scenic, accessible, and memorable treks that make the season a pilgrim’s dream. The article is organized geographically—by region and then by country—so that both seasoned backpackers and casual day‑trippers can find a trail that suits their preferences.

1. The Appalachian Trail (North Carolina & Virginia)

The first stop on the list is a stretch of the iconic Appalachian Trail (AT) that runs from near Asheville, NC, to the Shenandoah National Park in VA. The article highlights the “Fall Color Trail” section, a 30‑mile arc that showcases the southern Appalachians’ most spectacular canopy transformations. Hikers are encouraged to start at the Black Gap Trailhead and make their way to the summit of Mount Pisgah. The AT section is noted for its moderate difficulty, well‑maintained shelters, and the fact that the region’s higher elevations—above 4,000 feet—hold the peak of color longer than lower valleys.

Travel + Leisure links to the official National Park Service page for the Appalachian Trail, which offers up‑to‑date trail conditions, recommended gear lists, and sunrise/sunset times for the best photo opportunities. A side note mentions the “AT‑Bivouac” organization that provides free, pre‑registered camping sites along the trail, making it possible to sleep under the stars while still being safe.

2. Zion National Park, Utah

Next is Zion National Park, whose canyon walls turn a deep, almost burnt‑orange hue in late September. The “Observation Point” loop is spotlighted for its breathtaking vistas of the Grand Staircase and the Virgin River. The 8‑mile loop is described as moderately strenuous, with a steep ascent that rewards hikers with panoramic views. The article stresses the importance of arriving early in the morning or late afternoon, as midday temperatures can reach the 90s in Utah.

The linked National Park Service page provides information on required permits for overnight stays in the park’s backcountry, as well as safety advisories related to the park’s sudden weather changes. The article also recommends the “Zion Canyon Overlook” viewpoint as a shorter, family‑friendly option for those who want a taste of the canyon’s grandeur without the full loop.

3. Banff National Park, Alberta

Crossing the border, the list continues with Banff’s “Johnston Canyon” trail. The 5‑mile loop climbs to the upper falls, where the turquoise water is framed by vibrant foliage. The article notes that the trail’s paved sections make it accessible for hikers of all ages. It also points out the nearby “Sunshine Meadows” area, where a 3‑mile side trail leads to a high‑country alpine meadow that blooms in late September with wildflowers still in full display.

The linked link takes readers to the Parks Canada website, which includes a detailed map of the Johnston Canyon trail, GPS coordinates, and a list of nearby ranger stations. It also contains a safety briefing on bear activity in the area—a crucial piece of information for any backcountry excursion.

4. The Pacific Northwest: Olympic National Park, Washington

The article features the “Hoh River Trail” in Olympic National Park as a highlight of the Pacific Northwest’s fall foliage. A 6‑mile loop along the glacial river is described as moderately easy, with a steady incline and excellent views of the Hoh Rainforest’s ancient trees. The trail’s unique mossy bark and the faint scent of damp earth make it a favorite among nature photographers.

A link to the National Park Service page gives details about the park’s “All‑Weather” trail policies and recommended footwear. The page also offers an audio guide for the trail that narrates the history of the Hoh Valley, adding an educational layer for avid hikers.

5. The Midwest: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

In a surprising but well‑described entry, the article lists Cuyahoga Valley National Park as a must‑visit fall destination for hikers near the Great Lakes. The “Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway” is a unique way to combine rail travel with hiking. The 8‑mile loop that follows the rail line includes several pullouts that provide spectacular views of the park’s deciduous trees turning brilliant orange. The article emphasizes the accessibility of the park’s rail line, noting that it can be used by people with mobility issues, which is rare for fall hikes in the U.S.

A link to the National Park Service page offers an interactive map of the park’s trails and details on the seasonal maintenance schedule. The page also lists nearby picnic areas and the “Cedar Point” viewpoint, which has a dedicated “Leaf‑Counting” app for educational purposes.

6. The Canadian Rockies: Yoho National Park, British Columbia

The final stop in Canada is Yoho National Park’s “Wapta Falls” trail. The 2‑mile loop to the waterfall’s base is described as easy and family‑friendly. The fall colors are especially vivid on the lower slopes of the surrounding mountains. The article also mentions the “Alberta Icefields” trail, a slightly longer 12‑mile loop that showcases alpine tundra and glacial meltwater pools. The trail is recommended for hikers who are comfortable with a moderate climb and want to experience the high‑elevation fall palette.

Travel + Leisure links to Parks Canada’s page for Yoho National Park, which lists seasonal advisories, a downloadable trail map, and a photo gallery that captures the park’s autumn spirit. The page also directs readers to the “Yoho Visitor Centre” where they can get updated weather conditions and trail permits.

Overall Takeaway

Across the board, Travel + Leisure’s article underscores that the best fall hikes are those where the natural palette is complemented by well‑maintained trails, accessible facilities, and ample interpretive information. The article also stresses the importance of arriving early, staying hydrated, and respecting the changing weather that can accompany fall hikes in mountainous or high‑altitude regions.

The piece is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to plan a fall hiking adventure, whether they are a local exploring nearby woods or a traveler aiming for the most iconic cross‑border treks. By weaving together a thoughtful selection of trails with practical links to official park resources, Travel + Leisure delivers both inspiration and actionable guidance to make the most of autumn’s spectacular landscapes.