Four RV Road Trips for Peak Fall Foliage

As the summer heat fades into the crisp air of autumn, there’s no better way to embrace the change of seasons than an RV road trip to chase the changing leaves. The freedom of the open road teamed with the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, makes for one unforgettable journey. Here’s how you can plan the ultimate fall foliage RV adventure, from four of the best routes to essential tips for a smooth and scenic trip.

Planning Your Route: The Best Destinations for Fall Foliage

To maximize your fall foliage road trip, you need to choose the right route at the right time. Here are four top destinations and peak foliage times.

1. New England

The crown jewel of fall foliage, New England is a must for leaf peepers. Starting your journey in Maine and working your way down through New Hampshire via the Kancamagus Highway and Vermont’s Route 100 will leave you with breathtaking views all the way to the Berkshires of Massachusetts.

Best Campground: Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers stunning views and easy access to the Kancamagus Highway.

Peak Foliage: Late September to mid-October

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina through the Appalachian Mountains, The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive through a symphony of autumn colors. Be sure to stop at overlooks and hike to waterfalls to thoroughly take in the rolling mountains blanketed in red, orange, and gold.

Best Campground: With several campgrounds along the Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia puts you right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Peak Foliage: Mid to late October

3. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

A more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers an unforgettable fall foliage experience. Lake Superior’s southern shore and Tahquamenon Falls State Park offer a stunning display of fall colors that contrast beautifully with the region’s pristine waters.

Best Campground: Located in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.

Peak Foliage: Late September through October

4. The Great Smoky Mountains

Straddling the North Carolina and Tennessee border, The Great Smoky Mountains is renowned for its biodiversity year-round, but it becomes a prime destination for fall foliage in the fall. The diverse range of the park’s trees turns it into a canvas of color every fall.

Best Campground: The remote Cades Cove valley is surrounded by mountains, providing a peaceful setting in which to enjoy the fall colors.

Peak Foliage: Mid-October to early November

RV Essentials for a Fall Foliage Trip

Traveling by RV offers flexibility and comfort, but it’s essential to be prepared for fall travel:

Weather-Ready RV: Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Ensure your RV’s heating system is in good working order, and consider packing extra blankets and warm clothing. Don’t forget to check the tires and ensure they are ready for potentially slick roads due to rain or early snow. A new set of custom mud flaps from DuraFlap to protect your vehicle from dents and dings on the road is also a good idea.

Campground Reservations: Fall is a popular time for camping, so make your campground reservations early. Many campgrounds offer stunning foliage views right from your campsite, so take advantage of this by choosing sites with scenic surroundings.

Scenic Overlooks and Stops: Part of the joy of an RV trip is the ability to stop wherever the scenery is most captivating. Plan for plenty of stops at scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and small towns. These pauses enhance your experience and give you time to truly soak in the beauty of fall.

Local Festivals and Harvest Events: Autumn is also the season of harvest festivals, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs. Check for events along your route to add a local flavor to your journey. Enjoying fresh apple cider, pumpkin patches, and local crafts can be a delightful way to experience the culture of the regions you pass through.

Chase the Changing Leaves with DuraFlap

A fall foliage RV road trip lets you chase the changing leaves at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking through a forest of fiery red maples, sipping coffee by a serene lake, or simply enjoying the view from your RV window, take the time to immerse yourself in the moment.

From the winding roads of New England to the vast stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, make sure your tow rig or RV is road-ready with a new set of mud flaps from DuraFlap. Made in the USA, our high-quality mud flaps protect your RV from road debris. Whether you choose our ClassicLine or new BlackLine design, your vehicle will have the most protection with a style that’s all yours. Contact us for more information, pack your bags, load up the RV, and prepare for a colorful fall adventure.