Imagine welcoming a new day while enjoying fog rising off the lake. The temperature is cool, and the surroundings feature a vivid palette of yellow, red, and orange colors. It’s all about Deep Creek Lake, which has been consistently ranked as the #1 spot to view fall foliage in Maryland. The peak leaf-peeping season is in October, but the trees start changing color in mid-September.
If you wonder where to go, check out the Thayerville Fire Tower in Deep Creek Lake State Park. Hike to its top to enjoy a dramatic view of Deep Creek Lake fall foliage or take any trail at any of the seven state parks nearby. Maryland’s tallest point at Hoye-Crest also offers eye-catching views of the fall colors.
If you are looking for a chance to shake your body, we recommend you pay attention to the annual Autumn Glory Festival, dedicated to celebrating the beauty of fall. In addition to plenty of entertainment, this family-friendly festival in Oakland features a Fall Foliage Driving Tour, which highlights some of the area’s most stunning fall color spots. By the way, it’s ranked as the #1 fall festival in America by MSN.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Deep Creek Lake for fall foliage?
Mid-September to October is when the fall foliage at Deep Creek Lake is at its best. This season presents the surroundings with a vivid palette of yellow, red, and orange. Those who visit before mid-September might not get to see the full bloom of fall colors. Show more
Where is the Thayerville Fire Tower located?
For those who want to catch the fall foliage from a bird's eye view, hiking to the Thayerville Fire Tower's top is perfect. The tower is in Deep Creek Lake State Park, but the steep climb may not suit everyone. Show more
What are the other state parks near Deep Creek Lake that offer fall foliage views?
Swallow Falls State Park, Herrington Manor State Park, and Big Run State Park, among others, offer unique fall foliage views. Tourists can visit any of these parks to savor the full array of colors on display, by following the many trails on offer. Show more
What is the Autumn Glory Festival, and when does it take place?
Autumn Glory Festival celebrates the beauty of fall foliage in Oakland, Maryland. This five-day festival features arts and crafts, live music, parades, and entertains visitors. Its showpiece, the Fall Foliage Driving Tour, takes visitors to some of the area's most beautiful fall color spots. The festival is usually held in mid-to-late October. Show more
Is there any particular activity in Deep Creek Lake that is recommended during the fall foliage season?
Taking a boat tour to catch fall foliage colors from Deep Creek Lake is a unique experience offered by various local tour companies. Swallow Falls State Park presents another opportunity to enjoy the beautiful season, where hikers can go on a short hike to Muddy Creek Falls, surrounded by fantastic fall colors. Hiking trails abound, making it an excellent activity for the season. Show more
