Weekend trips for fall foliage

Weekend trips for fall foliage

Whether it’s the bright red maples of New England, the vibrant orange aspens of the Southwest, or the impressive pines of the Northwest, it’s no doubt that mother nature’s most vibrant colors make fall one of the best times of the year for a road trip. And why not stop and relax at a B&B along the road to enjoy the crisp fall air? Here are some of the best US regions for autumn road trips and a few tips for getting the best views. Also be sure to check out our infographic for road trip ideas in the southeast.

New England

When to go: You can’t go wrong with the end of September or beginning of October. And the color should carry through until at least the end of October.

Where to drive: The Green Mountain Byway between the Northern Green Mountains of Vermont is one of many can’t-miss routes to view picturesque maples and brilliant birch trees of New England.

The Maryland Tourism Office provides a list of the best scenic byways that will surely keep you busy and on the road in search for the brightest leaves. Where to stay:

  • Antietam Overlook Farm, Keedysville, Maryland – Sits atop the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a view you won’t want to miss.
  • The Maple Leaf Inn, Barnard, Vermont – This Victorian-style farmhouse is nestled on 16 acres of maple and birch trees.
  • Caldwell House Bed and Breakfast, Salisbury Mills, New York – This Hudson Valley B&B includes a full three course breakfast every morning to complement the beautiful scenery.

Northwest

When to go: Leaves start turning in mid-October and peak at the end of October, with some color trickling into November. Where to drive: The Willamette Valley of Oregon has more than 200 wineries. The leaves at the vineyards turn beautiful colors, so be sure to take a drive through the wine country on Oregon Route 99W or 99E.

Scenic Washington State recommends the White Pass National Scenic Byway, to enjoy the view of autumn a midst two active volcanoes. Where to stay:

  • Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins, Carson, Washington – Surround yourself with the vivid pine forests and the Cascade Mountains.
  • Sakura Ridge Farm and Lodge, Hood River, Oregon – The Mount Hood views are a sight for sore eyes in the fall.

Midwest

The sunset casts a colorful glow across the Mississippi River

When to go: Late September to mid-October is the best time to catch the brightest fall colors before the trees start dropping their leaves in November.

Where to drive:

Where to stay:

  • Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast Inn, Allegan, Michigan – Take in the glory of the 65 acres of wooded beauty via kayak on Emerson lake.
  • Glenlaurel Inn, Rockbridge, Ohio (pictured above) – Walk the many trails to enjoy the view or relax in a hammock on the property.
  • Hermann Hill Vineyard, Hermann, Missouri – Sits on a vineyard overlooking Hermann, Missouri, this inn is perfect for a fall getaway.

Southwest

When to go: Leaves begin to change in mid-September, peak in mid-October and are typically gone by beginning of November.

Where to drive:

  • The Colorado Tourism Office says that one of the best driving routes is taking Colorado 550 from Ridgeway south through Ouray and Silverton to Durango.
  • The New Mexico Tourism office recommends that you leave your car and travel back in time on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad as an alternative way to enjoy the fall views.

Where to stay:

  • Sundance Bear Lodge, Mancos, Colorado – Relax and enjoy the amazing Mesa Verde views.
  • The Bobcat Inn, Santa Fe, New Mexico – Far enough from the city to enjoy the unpolluted views of Rowe Mesa and the Ortiz Mountains.

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