The Best Places To See Fall Foliage In Your Van
We have selected three destinations—Lake Tahoe, Oregon, and the East Coast—where you can see these seasonal colors, along with the best spots to park your van along the way.
Lake Tahoe:
Lake Tahoe, sitting between the California-Nevada border, is a must-see in the fall. As the aspen trees turn golden, the landscape transforms into something special.
Must-See Spots:
- Spooner Lake and Marlette Lake
Located within the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, Spooner Lake is a serene starting point for your fall adventure. As you hike the 5.6-mile loop to Marlette Lake, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant aspens and pines.
- Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay is one of the most photographed locations in Lake Tahoe, and for good reason. In the fall, the changing leaves create a beautiful backdrop against the bay’s deep emerald waters. Take the short hike down to Vikingsholm, a stunning mansion built in the 1920s and enjoy the views from the shore.
- Hope Valley
A hidden gem, Hope Valley is often overlooked but is one of the best places to see fall foliage in the Tahoe area. This valley features rolling hills blanketed in golden aspen trees. The scenery here is particularly stunning during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape.
Oregon
Oregon’s diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for your fall road trip. Here are two incredible places to explore:
- Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular destination, especially during the fall months. With waterfalls and vibrant foliage, it’s a must-visit. Park your van and hike the Eagle Creek Trail to see Punch Bowl Falls surrounded by stunning colors. The trail offers plenty of spots to stop and take in the views. And when you’re done, your van will be the perfect place to cozy up and reflect on the beauty of the day.
- Mount Hood National Forest
Just a short drive from Portland, Mount Hood National Forest offers breathtaking fall views framed by the iconic mountain. The Timberline Trail provides incredible vistas, while the Trillium Lake Loop is perfect route. After a day of exploring, park your van by the lake and enjoy a quiet evening with the reflection of Mount Hood glowing in the water.
East Coast Wonders
The East Coast is famous for its vibrant fall foliage, and there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore. Here are two highlights:
- New England
New England is filled with fall colors, and it’s a dream when it comes to fall foliage. Drive your Sprinter van along the scenic routes of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is particularly stunning. You can easily pull over to take in the views or explore towns like Stowe and Woodstock!
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park offers a breathtaking display of fall colors. The Skyline Drive provides incredible overlooks, like Big Meadows and Hogback Overlook, where you can stop and soak in the views. With plenty of trails to explore, you can find the perfect hike. After a day of adventure, settle into your van for a nice evening under the stars.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect fall adventure map is all about embracing the beauty of nature and enjoying the freedom of the open road in your van. Whether you’re exploring the stunning views of Lake Tahoe, the landscapes of Oregon, or the vibrant colors of the East Coast, each destination has something special to offer. So, grab your gear, hit the road, and make unforgettable memories this fall. Happy adventuring with Agile Offroad.
Agile Gear to help through your journey:
