Across the country, golden and amber hues are popping up across mountain ranges, through forests, and meadows. If you’re looking for the perfect vantage point to enjoy all the natural beauty, plan a trip to one of the destinations below.Take a scenic ride through the Cuyahoga Valley
As the temperature drops and vibrant colors pop in the “Forest City,” autumn in The Land is a favorite for both outdoor lovers and culture buffs. Whether leaf peeping along the 325 miles of urban, lakefront or wooded hiking trails or engaging with a thought-provoking new museum exhibit, there’s plenty to dive into this season.
Recently named one of the best spots in the country to catch fall foliage, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Cleveland Metroparks are easy to get to and budget-friendly, perfect for visitors looking to explore and enjoy the season’s peak beauty.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Adds Historic Locomotives: This year, more visitors can soak in the fall scenery of Cuyahoga Valley National Park by hopping on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s two historic locomotives from the Grand Canyon Railway. The Scenic Railroad offers a variety of featured fall excursions, including Cocktails on the Rails, Murder Mystery and weekend brunch rides.
Fall Forest Fest at Holden Arboretum (Oct. 5-13): Visitors can revel in nature’s glory at Holden Arboretum’s annual celebration of the season, offering wagon rides, s’mores, food trucks and “Flannels and Flights” – a tasting event of seasonal beers – all set to the backdrop of the park’s gardens, trails, lakes and meadows.
Experience nature and luxury in the White Mountains
A luxury resort awaits in New Hampshire’s White Mountains – courtesy of the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa
Nestled among New Hampshire’s breathtaking White Mountains, Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa is offering an array of engaging fall activities this season, from hayrides and apple cider making to farm visits and fall foliage experiences. The resort is a timeless retreat set amid the picturesque peaks of New Hampshire’s legendary White Mountains. With a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, the resort has evolved from a family-run inn into a cherished grand hotel, encompassing 141 guest rooms and suites; signature seed-to-table experiences at Harvest Tavern; extraordinary pairings at 1865 Wine Cellar; an array of culinary delights at Veranda; indoor and outdoor pools; Tower Spa; a historic nine-hole golf course; and a working farm with educational programming and animal encounters. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s also situated within three hours of four major airports and provides convenient access for guests looking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of nature.
This year, the resort is immersing guests in the magic of fall with spectacular hikes, steaming mugs of hot cider with cinnamon-spiced treats, and nearby family-friendly festivals. There is even an exclusive Leaf Peeper package to take advantage of it all.
“There’s something truly special about fall at Mountain View Grand,” said Lloyd Van Horn, Managing Director of Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa. “We invite guests to experience the vibrant colors, crisp air, and unique seasonal offerings that make this time of year so spectacular. Whether it’s exploring our scenic trails, savoring the flavors of fall in our restaurants, or spending time with our furry friends at Mountain View Farm, we offer the perfect autumn escape.”
At Mountain View Grand, guests can experience the beauty of fall with the Leaf Peeper Package, which includes daily breakfast and a charming picnic lunch set against the backdrop of the picturesque setting. For spa enthusiasts, the Rest & Relaxation Package sets the scene for a restorative fall spa getaway. In addition to daily breakfast, it features a $200 credit for treatments at the resort’s Tower Spa. A variety of on-site offerings and nearby activities that capture the essence of the season:
Fall Tractor Hayride: Taking in the stunning scenery, guests can enjoy a hayride on Saturdays and Sundays in September and October followed by a cup of hot cider and assorted fall doughnuts.
Apple Cider Making: Offering an authentic taste of fall, the resort’s apple cider-making experience lets guests operate the farm’s cider press, creating delicious cider to sample. It’s made from a blend of “drop apples” from local farms and the on-site orchard.
Leisure Apple Time: Each day, guests are invited to gather from 10am to 2pm on the front veranda to enjoy complimentary apples from local orchards in Northern New Hampshire.
Fall Foliage Tours: Guests at Mountain View Grand can explore 1,700 acres of scenic trails, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. For even more impressive views, they can drive along Kancamagus Highway or visit nearby vantage points like Mount Washington and Cannon Mountain.
Local Fall Festivals: The area’s vibrant fall festivals provide guests with an opportunity to enjoy seasonal treats, local crafts, family activities, and lively entertainment.
Day Trips: Guests can embark on local day trips to go apple picking at nearby orchards, navigate New England’s largest corn maze, and enjoy the seasonal charm of the White Mountains.
Committed to providing guests with a memorable autumn escape, Mountain View Grand offers a spectacular setting to experience the changing colors and a host of fall-inspired activities. The resort showcases the beauty of nature, encouraging a slower pace that allows guests to savor every moment. For more information, visit www.mountainviewgrand.com.Hike the Adirondacks
The Adirondacks lead New York State in peak foliage each year, and there are many ways to catch every stunning autumn hue: fall events, harvest festivals, Oktoberfests, corn mazes, fright nights, apple picking, wine tasting, scenic drives and more. The Adirondack Wayfinder offers inspiration for travelers to plan their Adirondack vacation. The Fall Foliage Report from the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism provides weekly foliage updates via email through late October (sign up here: www.adirondacksusa.com/foliage-email). High Peaks Resort in downtown Lake Placid is the perfect basecamp for an Adirondack adventure.
Paul Smith College professor of forestry – and the ADK’s Fall Color Guy – Justin Waskiewicz has a few suggestions on where to find the best foliage, including the summit of Whiteface Mountain (the Cloudsplitter Gondola offers rides to the summit through Oct. 14) and Mount Van Hoevenberg (the Cliffside Coaster – the longest outdoor mountain coaster in North America originally used during the 1980 Olympic winter games in Lake Placid as part of the bobsledding competition – runs through Oct. 14). Justin is also predicting a more vibrant fall foliage season than normal this year.Hit the trails in Skagit ValleyFall in Skagit Valley – courtesy of Skagit Tourism Bureau
While renowned for its fields of tulips and daffodils in spring, this thriving farming community just an hour north of Seattle undergoes a metamorphosis in autumn, revealing a breathtaking panorama of vivid golds, fiery reds, and deep oranges. Skagit Valley in Washington State comes alive in autumn with a burst of colors and activities that celebrate the harvest season and the magic of fall. From vibrant fall foliage to bountiful farms, cozy local eateries, and exciting outdoor adventures, it offers the perfect getaway for those looking to embrace the joys of fall. There are plenty of ways to take in the stunning scenery:
Scenic Drives: Hit the road and explore the scenic byways that wind through the Valley. The Cascade Loop is particularly stunning in autumn, offering views of lush forests, rivers, and distant mountains dusted with early snow. Chuckanut Drive offers hikes, oysters, and Salish Sea views.Hiking Trails: Lace up your boots and hit the trails. There are numerous hikes that provide spectacular viewpoints to witness the fall foliage. Whether you prefer a gentle walk along a riverbank or a more challenging hike up a mountain, there’s a trail for every level of adventurer.
Worked up an appetite hiking? Local restaurants, cafes, and bakeries use seasonal produce to craft delectable dishes that celebrate the region’s harvest. Be sure to download the Skagit Food Trail and Skagit Farm to Pint Passports! Enjoy dishes made with fresh, local ingredients such as squash, root vegetables, and crisp apples. Many eateries offer seasonal specials like butternut squash soup, apple pies, and pumpkin spice everything! Sip on a glass of local wine or a seasonal craft beer while soaking in the stunning views of the fall landscape. Many local wineries and breweries offer tastings and tours, giving you a deeper appreciation of Skagit Valley’s rich agricultural heritage.Tour the state of Illinois
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Tourism today announced the release of its highly anticipated annual Illinois Fall Colors Trip Planner and Fall Color Reports, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. These invaluable online resources will guide residents and visitors to the perfect dates and destinations across Illinois to experience the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage at its peak.
“Illinois offers world-class attractions year-round, and our fall landscapes are among the most beautiful,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “With the help of our annual Illinois Fall Color Reports and Fall Colors Trip Planner, we’re excited to welcome visitors to explore our state’s restaurants, shops and unforgettable outdoor autumn experiences.”
“From exploring the quaint streets of Galena to ziplining through the stunning canopies of Southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest, we encourage travelers to use the Illinois Fall Colors Trip Planner to plan a fall getaway and explore the state during this special season,” said Daniel Thomas, deputy director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism. “This interactive tool makes it easier than ever for visitors and residents to experience the beauty of Illinois’ natural landscapes.”
This year, visitors can also take advantage of the new “Outdoor Adventures in Illinois” guide, featured in the latest issue of Enjoy Illinois, the state’s biannual magazine. The guide features the state’s most scenic trails, state parks and natural areas to visit this fall. From Chicago & Beyond (Chicago and surrounding areas) to the Land of Lincoln (Central Illinois), and from Great Rivers Country (western border of Illinois) to Trails to Adventure (Southern Illinois), this resource offers top outdoor destinations in each region, including:
Chicago & Beyond: Explore the Fox River Trail’s scenic 45-mile loop through areas like the Fabyan Forest Preserve or take a hike to St. Louis Canyon in Starved Rock State Park.Land of Lincoln: Experience stargazing on the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve’s 24-hour Dark Sky Trail in Penfield or cycle the Constitution Trail, which stretches from Bloomington to Normal, home of Illinois State University.Great Rivers Country: Paddle along the Quad Cities Water Trails for views of the Mississippi and Rock rivers or cycle the Grand Illinois Trail through the Apple Canyon State Park.Trails to Adventure: Discover the famous hiking and biking trails of the Shawnee National Forest or enjoy a guided kayak tour on the Cache River Trail in Southern Illinois.
—To view the 2024 Fall Color Reports and to plan your fall adventure with the Illinois Fall Colors Trip Planner, visit EnjoyIllinois.com.
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