Best spots to enjoy fall foliage in Alabama

Reviewed by: Patience Itson

Reading time: 4 minutes

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Incredible views at Little River Canyon in Fort Payne. (Jacob Blankenship / The Bama Buzz)

If you’re as excited about fall colors as I am, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up some of the best spots in Alabama to take in beautiful autumn views—whether you’re looking for scenic overlooks, peaceful walks or a quick weekend getaway.

Keep reading to discover these fall favorites.

Alabama State Parks

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Drive around Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham near Birmingham. (Bham Now)

Buck’s Pocket State Park

You’ll hit the leafy sweet spot at this popular spot in Northeast Alabama. Expect great views, hiking trails and interesting wildlife.

Lake Guntersville State Park

Resting along the banks of the Tennessee River in Northeast Alabama, Lake Guntersville stretches for 69,000 acres through natural woodlands. Visit during the autumn months and you’ll have a new favorite place for beautiful leafy views.

Monte Sano State Park

This Huntsville state park offers 22 miles of hiking and biking trails—all gorgeously ensconced by leaves in vivid yellows, oranges and reds. For the best spots to see the changing leaves of Monte Sano State Park’s many oak trees, follow the North and South Plateau Loop trails. They won’t disappoint. 

Visit Monte Sano State Park: 5105 Nolen Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Oak Mountain State Park

Located near Birmingham in Pelham, Oak Mountain State Park is a top spot for leaf peeping in Alabama. Here you’ll be swept away by miles of magnificent colors along cascading ridges dotted with pines and hardwoods. Wear your hiking boots and venture along the King’s Chair trail. Though moderately steep, the views are so good they’ll leave you breathless. 

Gulf State Park

Want to mix fall colors with a coastal vibe? Gulf State Park’s lakes and trails are peaceful and picturesque this time of year. Paddle a kayak, stroll the boardwalk or just soak in the scenery.

Visit Gulf State Park: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Alabama canyons + forests

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Little River Canyon is beautiful this time of year. (Bham Now)

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Atop Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne, you’ll find the beloved Little River Canyon. Along with impressive waterfalls, rock formations and bluff views, it’s notorious for its stunning autumn shades.

Venture along Canyon Rim Parkway and take in the beauty from several scenic overlooks.

Bankhead National Forest

Maple and poplar trees explode in mind-blowing colors at the Bankhead National Forest. Known as the land of a thousand waterfalls, it’s one of the most scenic spots in the state. Found in Northwest Alabama, you’ll discover over 90 miles of trails through the Sipsey Wilderness, which means endless enchantment wherever you turn. 

Alabama lakes + mountains

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Fall leaves + golden hour = an unbeatable view. (Ruffner Mountain)

Lake Martin

One of Alabama’s largest lakes, Lake Martin, is stunning in the fall. Take a scenic drive along the shoreline or enjoy a picnic while the water reflects the colorful foliage.

Lake Eufaula

Known as the “Bass Capital of the World,” Lake Eufaula also shines with fall colors. Its winding coves and surrounding forests make it a prime spot for a relaxing autumn getaway.

Ruffner Mountain

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer to sit back and take in the views, Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham is sure to satisfy your love for epic colors and crunchy leaves.

Lookout Mountain

Stretching across the northeast corner of the state, Lookout Mountain delivers panoramic views of rolling hills and vibrant fall foliage. Hike, drive or just take in the view—either way, the autumn colors won’t disappoint.

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Grace Garrison
Grace Garrison
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