The Best Hiking Trails Across the U.S. for Stunning Fall and Winter Scenery

Hiking in the cooler months offers a unique experience surrounded by scenes of a colorful autumn or snow-covered winter. Whether you’re seeking changing foliage or peaceful, frost-dusted paths, the U.S. is home to breathtaking trails perfect for these seasons.

Let’s take a look at some of the best hiking spots for stunning fall and winter scenery.

Adirondack High Peaks, New York

Located in upstate New York, the Adirondack High Peaks offer some of the most beautiful hiking experiences in the country. In the fall, the reds, oranges, and yellows of the foliage cover the rugged terrain. During winter, snow transforms the area into a peaceful wonderland, perfect for a quiet trek. Trails like Cascade Mountain provide moderate difficulty levels with rewarding views of the surrounding peaks and forests.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

Known for its breathtaking beauty year-round, the Great Smoky Mountains become even more magical in the fall and winter. Autumn brings waves of brilliant colors to the forests, while winter offers misty trails and snow-covered peaks. Clingmans Dome and Alum Cave Trail are popular routes that showcase the park’s diverse beauty.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park offers a unique perspective in the fall and winter, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal destination. The iconic Angels Landing trail provides stunning vistas of the canyon, framed by golden foliage in autumn or lightly frosted with snow in winter. It’s a must-see for anyone seeking a different kind of hiking adventure.

Maroon Bells, Colorado

Maroon Bells in Colorado is a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. The fall season lights up the aspen trees with brilliant yellow hues, creating a striking contrast against the jagged peaks. Winter hiking here provides a quieter, snow-covered landscape that’s equally mesmerizing. The Crater Lake Trail is a favorite for its scenic beauty and moderate challenge.

Acadia National Park, Maine

In New England, Acadia National Park offers some of the most picturesque trails for fall and winter hiking. The park’s Cadillac Mountain is famous for being one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise, making it a prime spot for early morning hikes. In the fall, the trails are lined with stunning colors, while winter brings a peaceful, icy beauty.

Hoh Rain Forest, Washington

For something completely different, the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park offers a lush and green escape even during fall and winter. The cooler months accentuate the moss-draped trees and misty atmosphere, creating an otherworldly hiking experience. The Hall of Mosses Trail is an easy yet unforgettable hike.

Get Ready to Explore These Trails

Hiking in the fall and winter is a great way to get exercise in the wonders of nature at their most beautiful times. Whether it’s the fiery foliage of New York’s Adirondacks or the serene snowfields of Colorado, each trail offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the colder months. Pack your boots and discover the stunning scenery waiting for you on these unforgettable hikes.