Fall is here with its crisp air, crunchy leaves, and golden afternoons. It’s the perfect time to stroll scenic trails beneath colorful canopies and take in sweeping views painted with brilliant hues. Some of Massachusetts’ best spots to experience the fleeting season are at Trustees special places. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite locations in each region—alongside when foliage is estimated to peak—so you can make the most of autumn.

The Berkshires

Monument Mountain

Estimated peak is September 24–October 15. Hike the Peeskawso Peak Trail at the top of Monument Mountain for wondrous views of Mount Greylock and the Catskill Mountains. Whether you take the direct—and strenuous—route up the Hickey Trail or meander along the Mohican Monument Trail, you’ll see reds, oranges, and yellows blanketing the surrounding valleys and hills. In the Fall, it’s easy to see why the mountain has long inspired works of art and literature.

Connecticut River Valley

Mount Warner

Estimated peak is September 22–October 5. Ascend through the rich colors of oak, beech, and other hardwoods along the two-mile Salamander Loop Trail. The 500-foot hill provides memorable views overlooking the Connecticut River Valley as the landscape becomes painted by Fall. October’s cool air and vibrant canopy make your outing an ideal way to savor the region’s peak foliage while spending restorative time outdoors.

Central

Rock House Reservation

Estimated peak is September 24–October 21. Three miles of trails and woods roads wind through a tapestry of autumn color surrounding man-made Carter Pond. The 20-to-30-foot-high rock enclosure—for which the Reservation is named—becomes even more intriguing surrounded by Fall’s vibrant display. Don’t forget to also explore Moshup’s Hand by Ella Mahoney—part of the Art & The Landscape exhibition The Land Tells Our Stories—before it leaves at the end of October.

MetroWest

Fruitlands Museum

Estimated peak is September 29–October 22. Hike miles of trails through 210 acres of changing woodland as fiery oranges and brilliant reds dot the picturesque grounds. Some of the best sweeping vistas overlooking the Nashoba Valley and the New Hampshire mountains can be found just beyond Fruitlands’ entrance—if coming from Route 2—at the top of the hill where a pullout is available to stop. Consider arriving for sunset, as Fruitlands is home to some of the most incredible sunsets in the region.

Northeast

Appleton Farms

Estimated peak is October 10–25. More than six miles of footpaths, bridle paths, and farm roads—some of which are part of the Bay Circuit Trail—provide numerous opportunities to become immersed in Fall’s colorful transformation. Stunning vistas and striking diversity of landscapes mean you’ll never know what new vibrant foliage might be waiting around the next bend. Visit the connected Appleton Farm Grass Rides for another six miles of trails perfect for walking, hiking, or running, and where dog walking is allowed.

Metro Boston

Governor Hutchinson’s Field

Estimated peak is October 10–18. A short walk to the top of the hill provides spectacular views of the Neponset River—and its tidal salt marshes—the Boston skyline, and the Boston Harbor Islands in their Fall hues. From there, take the grassy slopes to the adjacent Pierce Reservation for an easy quarter-mile trail along the river embankment, coated in autumn’s splendor.

South of Boston

Norris Reservation

Estimated peak is October 8–27. Choose from several loop or out-and-back routes along carriage roads crunching with fallen oak leaves and generations of pine needles. Reaching the bend in the North River provides a marvelous vista of brilliant foliage reflected in crystal-clear water. Spend some time sitting on the overlook bench for a chance to see wading birds, hawks, and kingfishers as they migrate South for the impending winter.

Cape Cod

Mashpee River Reservation

Estimated peak is October 5–12. Start at the parking area on Quinaquisset Avenue and head right towards the river. After you cross the “Great Bridge” (the old Route 28 layout), you’ll be in Mashpee Woodlands West, with the Thorp Trail providing intimate access to the Mashpee River’s brilliant yellow wetlands and enveloped in towering reds and oranges from the surrounding woodlands. A total of two miles of trails run through the Reservation, in addition to trails on the property of other conservation organizations and state and local governments.

The best way to visit all of these special places is by becoming a Trustees Member!