15 Amazing Fall Color Hikes

11. West Fork trail

• Location: Sedona, Arizona
• Average peak color: Late October-early November
• My guide to hiking West Fork

The West Fork trail has been dubbed “New England of Arizona.” While Sedona is more well-known for its’ jaw dropping red rock scenery, many Phoenix locals make their way out here to enjoy the traditional foliage each autumn. After taking a stroll along this trail, you will quickly see why it was nicknamed as such. It’s quite a shock to see such a medley of brilliant hues in a place better known for exotic desert scenery.

Nevertheless, this trail is gorgeous year round. With crunchy leaves, golden & red hues surrounding you in every direction, and even a hint of red rock scenery. I’ll call this “fall with a desert twist.” Where else can you enjoy both red rock vistas and leaf peeping at the same time?

12. Minuteman Bikeway

• Location: Boston Metro area
• Average peak color: Mid-late October
• My guide to biking the Minuteman

The Minuteman is a multi purpose former rail trail which is now popular with bikers, joggers, and walkers. The lengthy distance (10 miles) makes it the perfect choice for a leisurely weekend activity. It begins in Bedford, not too far from downtown Boston. I really love this trail anytime of year, but especially when the golden, orange, and red hues start lining the course.

This is the best trail near Boston for leaf peepers and nature lovers. Biking is the best way to take in the beauty of the season as you can cover so much more ground, thus enabling you to enjoy even more fall color.

13. Skyline trail at Blue Hills

• Location: Quincy, Massachusetts
• Average peak color: Mid-late October
• My guide to hiking Blue Hills

Blue Hills is a massive recreation area, conveniently located just outside of downtown Boston. This is the place to go for a full afternoon of hiking. With over 125 miles of trails and close proximity to the city, it’s one of the country’s best and biggest urban escapes. There are miles and miles of gorgeous trails to choose amongst. Most newbies decide to check out the Skyline trail, which offers a grand vista of the beautiful Boston skyline.

The best time to plan your hike at Blue Hills is during the peak of fall season. At this time, you will get to enjoy great city views plus amazing fall foliage. However, the best part of all is taking some time to soak in nature. Escape the city commotion for a bit to enjoy a refreshing walk in the woods. You will walk out refreshed ready to explore more of our country’s great history.

14. Bear Jaw trail

• Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
• Average peak color: Late September
• My guide to hiking Bear Jaw

Like the Inner Basin trail, Bear Jaw is another stunning trail on the San Francisco Peaks. The trail is a short 2 miles, although it’s very steep with a 700 foot gain in elevation. I found this one quite challenging even though I am in pretty good shape. Hopefully (like me), you will stay motivated to push on til the end when surrounded by the inspiring colors of the season.

This one is a bit of a hassle to get to and 4WD is definitely recommended to navigate the rough road! Let’s just say that my Prius barely made it and I would never take my car again. While parking can be hard to find, the trail itself remains quiet.

15. Enders Falls Trail

• Location: Enders State Forest
• Average peak color: Mid October
• My guide to hiking Enders

Enders State Forest is located in a gorgeous secluded area of North central Connecticut. Miles of trails cut through 1000’s of acres of pristine wooded forest. Streams, waterfalls, and wetlands make this a peaceful place to enjoy a hike.

Enders Falls is a short scenic hike to add to your fall bucket list. In addition to strolling past several small waterfalls, you will also get to enjoy the colors of the season. This really is a quaint little place to hike, a postcard worthy New England destination. While super busy during the summer, the trail sees little traffic during the fall.