It's getting close to seeing some nice fall color in the northeast USA. I think some of the nicest drives are in the states of Vermont and New Hampshire. One of the easiest ways to get a great view from a mountain top is to take the gondola ride at Killington Mountain in Vermont.
The main attraction to this place is of course the mountain, but you will also find a cluster of restaurants, lodges, and other activities at the base, in an otherwise rural part of the state.
There is a nice hiking trail at the top of the mountain where the gondola is. The Killington Mountain Website has maps showing a large selection of hiking and biking trails (you ride up with your bike and coast down most of the way).
You can see the rest of my Killington Mountain Photos on my website. Enjoy!