Fall into these lakeside destinations to make the most of your autumn travels

Whether you want to hike amid the best of Mother Nature’s colorful leaves, or get cozy by a lakeside fire pit, we’ll help you find your perfect fall getaway destination.

By Paul Oswell | September 17, 2021 (Updated: September 4, 2025)

Fall brings to mind pumpkin patches, colorful leaves, cozy fireplaces, calming canoe rides and hot apple cider. What’s not to love? Temperatures cool, there’s a crispness in the air and Mother Nature puts on a spectacular show as greens turn into oranges, reds and ambers all across the countryside. Some of the best autumn travel destinations in the country are by scenic bodies of water, and lakeside vacations will delight anyone who loves this time of year.

We’ve taken a look at some of our favorite lakeside travel destinations, from national parks to forested valleys to red sandstone canyons, that will deliver a memorable vacation.

Lake Bemidji, Minnesota

As autumn arrives, Lake Bemidji State Park’s colors are truly magnificent. Walking trails, including the popular Paul Bunyan State Trail, snake through the woodlands, lined with sugar maple, black spruce and birch trees. Look up to spot majestic eagles and herons, and around for curious deer and even the occasional black bear. The lake itself is equally alluring as a headwater for the Mississippi River. Paddle around in a kayak or canoe, or fish for walleye and muskellunge. Rent a bicycle and take a spin around the lake’s shores for a memorable fall adventure. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bemidji is the perfect home base located directly on the south shore of Lake Bemidji and only five minutes away from the lively town center full of shops and restaurants. After a long day on the lake, relax with a dip in the hotel’s indoor pool and whirlpool.

Lake Flower and Lake Placid, New York

The Adirondack’s forested mountains are beautiful at any time, but in the fall, the foliage blooms into dazzling colors. The majestic scenery makes this area a premium vacation spot, with the fall foliage moving like a wave of color across the regions of this New York State Park. The Adirondack’s Saranac Lake is one of the first places to glow with autumn pride and a popular destination for leaf peeping, while nearby Lake Placid is also an area where red maple, black cherry and white ash trees burst into vivid panoramas. Just past Lake Placid you’ll reach Monument Falls, a short waterfall you can see from the road of your scenic drive that makes a great detour for families. Outdoor pursuits in the Adirondacks include hiking, fishing and golfing, or you can relax by the cozy fire pits and take in the views across the lake. Plan your stay at Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton for easy access to all this fall fun, but don’t forget to spend some time at this boutique Adirondak hotel, too. You can soak up the property’s historic 1920s charm, indulge in a treatment at the spa, and enjoy a meal at the cozy Campfire Adirondack Grill + Bar.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

Straddling the US-Canadian border in northern Vermont, Lake Champlain is an ideal getaway for autumn lovers. You will find apple and pumpkin picking, live music festivals, and leaf peeping right at your doorstep. The hundreds of miles of nature trails across the Champlain Valley are good for beginners to adventurous hikers alike, and there’s no better way to take in the foliage than by going for a trek among the trees. Maximize your visit with a stay at Hotel Champlain Burlington, Curio Collection by Hilton, located on the shores of Lake Champlain and just one block from Waterfront Park, the perfect spot for a sunset stroll. The hotel also spoils guests with a heated indoor pool and great dining options like the inventive seafood at Original Skiff Fish & Oysters.

Lake Hamilton, Hot Springs, Arkansas

Fall doesn’t just happen on the East Coast, and autumn vacation destinations such as Hot Springs, Arkansas, have their own vibrant natural colors to show off as the seasons change. Lake Hamilton is surrounded by some of the most glorious scenery. Spend a day hiking through the Ouachita Mountains or Hot Springs National Park and then recover in the soothing thermal pools of Bathhouse Row. Or, book a trip on the Belle of Hot Springs riverboat to see Mother Nature’s show from the water. Get cozy at Home2 Suites by Hilton Hot Springs, which overlooks Lake Hamilton Marina and is located just 10 to 15 minutes away from the area’s top attractions. Traveling with your furry friend? They’re welcome at this pet-friendly hotel that also offers complimentary breakfast.

Lake Tahoe, California-Nevada

The California-Nevada border may not seem like the most obvious location for America's largest alpine lake, but Lake Tahoe’s 6,200-foot (around 1890 meters) elevation wins that title. A fall vacation in Lake Tahoe has many advantages. You’re a short drive from Hope Valley's stunning groves of trees showing off their fiery autumn colors. Hike to Maggie's Peaks for exceptionally memorable views across Emerald Bay, or, if you’re feeling up to the challenge, climb the northern or southern peaks for a reward of scenery that’s somehow even more magnificent. Head to the shores of Lake Tahoe to watch kokanee salmon swim upstream to spawn in the creeks, or paddle around in a canoe or kayak. You can also take a steamboat tour aboard the Tahoe Queen or M.S. Dixie II. Book your stay at Martis Valley Lodge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Tahoe National Forest, another idyllic place for fall foliage. For more waterside fun, the Truckee River is nearby, and the hotel also offers a year-round hot tub.

Lake Powell, Arizona

There might not be the natural fireworks of changing tree colors in Lake Powell, Arizona, but visiting in the autumn offers a memorable alternative to visitors in the know. The stunning sandstone rock formations glow red and purple in the soft fall sunlight. The waters of the lake itself are still warm enough to swim in, and the shores are an idyllic spot for huddling around a campfire as the sun sets. Temperatures are perfect for long hikes around the lakes, or take to the waters on a calm boat tour that shows off the best of the region’s sculpted geology. Book your stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell for a comfortable stay nearby all the action. Beyond Lake Powell, which is only three miles (4.8 km) away from the property, you’ll also have icons like Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon just around the corner. Complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool round out the offerings at this centrally located property.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.