The days are warm. The nights are cool. The air carries that unmistakable autumn fragrance, and the landscape bursts with shades of red, orange, and gold.
Yes, autumn has arrived!
It’s the time of year when “Leaf Peekers” take to the roads to enjoy one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful displays. Leaf Peekers is an affectionate term for travelers who head into the countryside to see the changing colors of fall foliage.
I’ve always loved this time of year, especially New England’s beautiful autumn scenery.
Recently, while spending time on Long Island, New York, I enjoyed a wonderful seven-mile walk from Argyle Lake to Belmont Lake. The weather was perfect, the leaves were changing, and the scenery reminded me just how much I love fall.
And the best part? You don’t necessarily have to travel far to enjoy it!
Depending on where you live, the changing colors may be right outside your door. But if you’re looking for a fall getaway, there are some spectacular places across the United States to experience the season.
The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
One of the most beautiful regions for fall color is the Great Smoky Mountains.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, sits at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and makes a wonderful base for an autumn getaway.
With scenic drives, hiking trails, mountain overlooks, shopping, and dining, there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the changing leaves.
Because the mountains have varying elevations, fall colors often appear at different times, extending the viewing season.
Whether you’re taking a scenic drive or heading out on a hiking trail, be sure to have your camera ready! There are plenty of overlooks and photo opportunities along the way.
October is generally a wonderful month to visit, though peak color timing varies with elevation and weather.
Colorado: A Golden Autumn
If you’re looking for beautiful golden hues, head west to Colorado.
Destinations such as Vail, Aspen, and Telluride offer spectacular displays of golden aspen trees against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
The contrast of brilliant yellow leaves, evergreen forests, and towering mountain peaks is something special.
Popular scenic areas include Maroon Bells near Aspen and the landscapes around Steamboat Springs.
Colorado offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and exploring its charming mountain towns.
Fall colors in the higher elevations typically arrive earlier than in many eastern destinations, often beginning in September. It’s a good idea to check local foliage reports when planning your visit.
New England: My Favorite Fall Escape
For me, there’s something especially magical about autumn in New England.
From the brilliant reds and oranges to the charming small towns, covered bridges, historic villages, and winding country roads, it’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.
New England includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, and each state offers its own special fall experience.
I love the idea of spending a day driving through the countryside, stopping in a quaint town for lunch, exploring a local shop, or simply admiring the beautiful landscape.
Whether it’s the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire, the coastal charm of Maine, or the historic towns of Massachusetts and Connecticut, New England offers countless opportunities for a memorable autumn escape.
Northern New England often begins showing its best colors in late September and early October, while areas farther south may reach their peak later in the month.
Of course, Mother Nature doesn’t follow an exact calendar, so checking local foliage reports before your trip is always a good idea.
Planning Your Fall Foliage Getaway
Each region has its own peak foliage season, and the timing can change from year to year depending on temperatures, rainfall, and elevation.
A few things to keep in mind when planning your fall adventure:
- Be flexible with your dates. Peak foliage is never guaranteed for a specific weekend.
- Explore beyond the popular spots. Sometimes the prettiest scenery is found along a quiet country road.
- Leave room for unexpected stops. Scenic overlooks, small towns, and roadside discoveries are part of the fun.
- Book accommodations early. Popular fall destinations can fill up quickly, especially during peak foliage weekends.
- Pack layers. Warm afternoons can quickly turn into chilly evenings, particularly in the mountains.
And remember, a fall getaway doesn’t have to mean a weeklong vacation. Sometimes a day trip or a long weekend is all you need to recharge.
Take Time to Enjoy the Season
Whether you’re exploring the mountains of Tennessee, admiring the golden aspens in Colorado, discovering the charm of New England, or simply walking through your own neighborhood, autumn is a beautiful reminder to slow down and enjoy what’s around you.
As Albert Camus wrote:
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.”
So grab your walking shoes, take the scenic route, and enjoy the colors of the season.
And if a fall escape is calling your name, Boomerang Escapes would love to help you plan your next adventure.
Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.
She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds. Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind. She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember. With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.
