New Heepsy Study Identifies Top 10 Fall Destinations, Including Mt. Rainier

A new study by Heepsy identified the top ten fall destinations in the U.S. by analyzing factors such as the number of Instagram hashtags and Google searches, the number of visitors, the average temperature, and the popularity of these places. 

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is the most popular fall destination, with 12.8 million online searches and hashtags combined and attracting over 4.3 million visitors. Napa Valley in California not only has an impressive 3.6 million visitors but also stands out for having the warmest average fall temperature at 60.9°F.

The study focuses on their popularity, accessibility, and natural beauty. Data collection involved six key factors: the number of Instagram hashtags, the number of Google searches to measure social media appeal and public interest, a combined online popularity score reflecting a destination’s digital presence, the annual number of visitors indicating real-world accessibility, average fall temperature for seasonal comfort, and unique features that set each location apart. 

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado ranks first with the most online popularity at 12.8, making it the top fall destination in the U.S. With over 4.3 million visitors annually, it is by far the most visited location on the list. With its stunning golden aspens and abundant wildlife, it also has approximately 3.5 million Instagram hashtags, the second-most in the list. 

Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada takes the second spot. It has a combined online popularity of 9.02 million, primarily driven by 8.7 million Google searches—the second highest in this study. It offers a milder average fall temperature of 50.2°F, ideal for exploring its red sandstone formations. Despite this, it sees only 250,000 visitors annually, suggesting that while many are curious, fewer make the journey.

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington ranks third with 7.19 million in online popularity, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Its snow-capped peaks and towering evergreens create an impressive landscape that draws significant attention, with nearly 500,000 Instagram hashtags showcasing its breathtaking beauty during the fall season.

Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada, holds the fourth spot. It is a social media favorite, with 3.1 million Instagram hashtags for #LakeTahoe, second only to Rocky Mountain National Park. With crystal-clear waters surrounded by golden aspens, it attracts around 1.5 million visitors annually, making it a top destination for those seeking cozy autumn views.

Napa Valley, California, comes in fifth, with an impressive 3.6 million visitors, the second-highest visitor count after Rocky Mountain National Park. Known for its vineyards and beautiful fall landscapes, Napa Valley has the warmest average fall temperature, at 60.9°F, making it an attractive spot for travelers who prefer mild weather.

Buffalo National River in Arkansas comes in sixth. It stands out with its 5.3 million Instagram hashtags, more than any other destination, and an average fall temperature of 61.4°F, the warmest in this study. On the other hand, it has the lowest Google search count of only 61,000. This contrast suggests it’s a hidden gem that thrives on visual appeal, attracting 1.8 million visitors annually.

Columbia River Gorge in Oregon ranks seventh and stands out with 3.6 million visitors annually, rivaling Napa Valley. Famous for its waterfalls and autumn-colored forests, it has become a top fall destination despite having fewer Instagram hashtags than others.

Blue Ridge Parkway, spanning Virginia and North Carolina, ranks eighth, attracting 1.67 million visitors annually. It’s a classic destination for leaf peepers, with 1.3 million Instagram hashtags showcasing its beauty.

Aspen, Colorado, takes the ninth spot with a popularity score of 3.6 million. It gathers 1.9 million Instagram hashtags, demonstrating its large appeal. Despite having fewer visitors, at around 1.42 million annually, it remains a highly recognized fall destination.

Mammoth Lakes in California rounds out the top ten with an online popularity score of 3.14 million. It has the warmest average fall temperature alongside Napa Valley, at 60.9°F, and is known for its mountain views and yellow aspens. Although it only gathers 444,000 Instagram hashtags, it still attracts 1.3 million visitors, proving to be a favored spot for fall enthusiasts seeking picturesque landscapes.

A spokesperson from Heepsy said: “When planning your fall getaway, consider destinations that offer a mix of online popularity and visitor accessibility, as they tend to provide a well-rounded experience. Look for spots that combine breathtaking landscapes with comfortable temperatures to ensure an enjoyable trip. For those who enjoy capturing memories, places with a strong Instagram presence often offer the most photogenic views. Lastly, don’t just rely on the most famous locations; sometimes, the lesser-known gems can provide equally unforgettable experiences with fewer crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.”

To access the complete research, please follow the link.