Fall is here, and that means it's time for millions of leaf peepers to head to the Blue Ridge Parkway to enjoy vibrant foliage, panoramic overlooks, and the gentle roads winding through the Appalachians. Stretching 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, it's often considered the crown jewel of fall drives in the U.S., and for a good reason. But what if you've already done it? Or you're looking for a road less traveled?
It turns out, the Blue Ridge Parkway has some serious competition. Across the country, there are shorter, quieter, and in some cases more spectacular fall drives that offer their own versions of magical fall scenery. From coastal New England to the Rocky Mountains, these scenic alternatives combine brilliant color with fewer crowds, stunning views, and a regional char