Is there anything better than a New England fall? Every year, our hills and valleys turn red, orange, and gold, and people travel from all over the world to see it. Lucky for us, it's right outside our door.

Whether you're a lifelong local or new to the area, here are seven spots that show off the season at its very best.

1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

The "Kanc" is one of the most famous fall drives in the country, and for good reason. This stretch of Route 112 winds through the White Mountain National Forest between Lincoln and Conway, with no gas stations, shops, or billboards along the way. Just mountains, rivers, and color.

Pull over at the scenic overlooks, take a short walk to Sabbaday Falls, or stop by the Swift River for a picnic. Go early on a weekday if you can. Weekends at peak season get busy.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

Where else can you see fall foliage and the Atlantic Ocean in the same view? At Acadia, bright leaves meet granite cliffs and rocky shoreline for a scene that feels pure Maine.

The summit of Cadillac Mountain offers sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and the islands below. Prefer to stay low? Walk or bike the carriage roads, or take a slow drive along the Park Loop Road. Heading to Cadillac by car? Check the park's website first, since a vehicle reservation is required for the summit road during the busy season.

3. Mount Mansfield and Smugglers' Notch, Vermont

Vermont's highest peak towers over the town of Stowe, and in the fall, the whole valley seems to glow. Hike up, take the gondola, or drive the Auto Toll Road for a view that stretches for miles.

Then head through Smugglers' Notch on Route 108. This narrow, winding pass squeezes between giant boulders and steep cliffs. It's slow going, but that's the point. Afterward, warm up with cider and a stroll through Stowe's village.

4. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

One of the oldest scenic byways in New England, the Mohawk Trail follows Route 2 through the Berkshires and the hills of western Massachusetts. Expect rolling forests, river valleys, and plenty of small-town charm.

Don't miss the famous Hairpin Turn near North Adams, where the view opens up across the valley. Stop in Shelburne Falls to see the Bridge of Flowers and the glacial potholes in the Deerfield River.

5. Height of Land, Rangeley Lakes Region, Maine

Ask a Mainer for their favorite fall view, and you might hear this one. The Height of Land overlook on Route 17 looks out over Mooselookmeguntic Lake, with layers of mountains and forest rolling off toward the horizon.

There's a pull-off right at the top, so the view is easy to reach. Keep going into Rangeley for lakeside walks, local shops, and a quieter pace than the busier tourist spots.

6. Mount Battie, Camden, Maine

Where the mountains meet the sea, fall looks a little different. From the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, you can see colorful hillsides, Camden's harbor full of boats, and Penobscot Bay stretching out to the islands.

Hike up, or take the auto road almost all the way to the summit. Then head back down to the village for a walk along the harbor and a bite to eat. Coastal color often peaks a little later, so this is a great pick for mid-October.

7. Woodstock, Vermont

If you've ever pictured the perfect New England town in the fall, it probably looks a lot like Woodstock. Covered bridges, historic homes, and maple-lined streets make every corner feel like a postcard.

Walk across the Middle Covered Bridge, visit Billings Farm, or hike up Mount Tom for a view of the village wrapped in color. It's an easy place to spend a whole afternoon without a plan.

Tips for Your Leaf-Peeping Trip

• Time it right. Northern spots usually peak first, from late September into early October. Coastal spots and areas farther south often peak in mid to late October.

• Check a foliage tracker. State tourism sites post weekly updates, so you can see where color is at its best before you go.

• Go early or go midweek. You'll beat the crowds and catch the softest morning light.

• Pack layers. Mountain summits can be much colder and windier than the towns below.

Why Do We Love It Here So Much?

Fall is just one of the reasons people fall in love with New England, and decide to stay. If a weekend of leaf peeping has you dreaming about calling this place home, a local Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate The Masiello Group agent is ready to help you find your spot.