<p>The lacy leaves and wandering branches of a Japanese maple lend drama to the grounds of the Biltmore Estate near Asheville, North Carolina. Built in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt, the Biltmore is the largest private residence in the United States and includes more than 75 acres (30 hectares) of manicured gardens.</p>

Japanese Maple, North Carolina

The lacy leaves and wandering branches of a Japanese maple lend drama to the grounds of the Biltmore Estate near Asheville, North Carolina. Built in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt, the Biltmore is the largest private residence in the United States and includes more than 75 acres (30 hectares) of manicured gardens.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MELISSA FARLOW, Nat Geo image collection

Gorgeous photos of autumn in the United States

Journey from Denali’s vast wildness to New York City’s Central Park with these seasonal snapshots.

Every autumn a brilliant tapestry of gorgeous golds and rusty reds blankets the United States, marking summer’s retreat and signaling winter’s impending arrival. From New York City’s Central Park to Alaska’s wild valleys, see how this striking season unfolds across the country.

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