New Hampshire’s White Mountains Earn Top Spot in Best Fall Foliage Rankings

New Hampshire's White Mountains have secured the sixth position on USA Today's prestigious list of the 10 best places to see fall colors in America, cementing New England's reputation as the nation's premier autumn destination.

The ranking, part of USA Today's 2025 10Best Readers' Choice Awards released Wednesday, recognizes destinations that draw hundreds of thousands of leaf-peepers annually. The White Mountains earned particular praise for their "unparalleled views" accessible via the iconic Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and the renowned Kancamagus Highway, a National Scenic Byway.

This recognition comes with added urgency for visitors, as the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway will retire permanently after October 26, 2025, marking the end of an era for the historic attraction that has operated since 1980. The 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway continues to offer spectacular foliage viewing through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest.

New England dominated the fall rankings, with Burlington, Vermont also earning the tenth spot among the best places to visit in fall. Closer to home, AppleFest at Wachusett Mountain in Westminster made the list of America's best fall festivals, running October 18-19 and October 25-26 due to overwhelming popularity.

Peak foliage season in the White Mountains typically occurs from late September through the second week of October, with northern areas and higher elevations showing color changes first. Michigan's Upper Peninsula claimed the overall top spot for fall foliage destinations.

For Boston-area residents, the White Mountains offer world-class autumn colors just a few hours north, making this weekend getaway destination more accessible than ever.

Current foliage conditions and updates are available through New Hampshire's official tourism websites.