Fall is just around the corner, and there’s nothing quite like autumn in New England. Crisp air, cozy layers, and landscapes bursting with color make this one of our favorite times of year. Here are a few places to soak up the season at its brightest.
New Hampshire Seacoast
Estimated Peak: October 23 – October 30
| Prescott Park Portsmouth, NH Take a stroll through late-season blooms, changing foliage, and sweet river views, all right in the heart of Portsmouth! Make it a day trip and explore the historic downtown village for a true fall day in New England. | Monadnock State Park Jaffrey, NH Don't drive too far to catch the fiery leaves on the mountains! This park is full of trails to enjoy the changing seasons and is centered around Mount Monadnock, the peak of southern New Hampshire. |
York County
Estimated Peak: October 21 – November 2
| Mount Agamenticus York, ME Despite its modest elevation, it offers expansive views and a rich history. The summit provides a 360-degree panorama, including sights of the Atlantic Ocean, Mount Washington, and the White Mountains. | Little Ossipee Pond Waterboro, ME Not only known for its picturesque style, but this pond is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting species like loons, herons, bald eagles, ducks, and geese! |
Greater Portland
Estimated Peak: October 20 – October 28
| Mackworth Island Falmouth, ME An easy, mostly flat trail suitable for families, strollers, and leashed dogs. The path meanders through shaded forests of spruce and pine, offering stunning views of Casco Bay and its surrounding islands. | Wolfe's Neck State Park Freeport, ME Renowned for its birdlife, especially ospreys that nest on nearby Googins Island, this park offers seasonal nature programs, including guided walks and talks, to enhance visitors' understanding of the local ecosystem. |
Midcoast
Estimated Peak: October 19 – October 26
| Cliff Trail Harpswell, ME A stunning loop through the woods, with a peak overlooking the bay and islands beyond. Enjoy a short shore walk around fairy houses and changing trees, or take the longer route to find the panoramic outlook. | Bradbury Mountain Pownal, ME A short hike to panoramic leaf-covered views. Bradbury Mountain offers sweeping views of Casco Bay, over 24 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, camping, a playground, and family-friendly activities. |
Central Maine
Estimated Peak: October 17 – October 25
| French Mountain Rome, ME Panoramic views of the seven lakes and colorful forests below. Enjoy several great lookouts along a short ridgeline providing fantastic views of the lakes, village center, and mountains beyond. Don't miss the fiery colors of the lakes! | Blueberry Hill Lookout Rome, ME This sweet little loop is highly accessible! Drive to the top or take about 10 minutes for this easy hike and enjoy awesome views of Great Pond and Long Pond. Watch the colors on the mountaintops change, surrounded by the blue lakes below. |
Bar Harbor & Downeast
Estimated Peak: October 20 – October 28
| Great Head Trail Bar Harbor, ME This 1.7-mile loop is a moderate, family-friendly walk with scenic views of Beehive, Sand Beach, Great Head, and beyond! | Schoodic National Scenic Byway Hancock, ME Starting in Hancock and ending in Prospect Harbor, this hidden gem is full of outdoor opportunity and breathtaking views. |


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