Finding Autumn Beauty in Unexpected Places
Which areas of America first come to mind when you hear the words “fall colors?” If you’re like most of us, you probably think of Vermont or New Hampshire. But the truth is most of the U.S. undergoes a natural transform every autumn – including states you may never think of. So, we’ve searched America to find new leaf peeping alternatives in easily accessible areas of Pennsylvania, Georgia and California.
California
The Sierra Nevada Mountains, California
Tuolumne County
The aspen groves along Highway 108 are at their most colorful this time of year. Start your adventure in Sonora with a hike on Dragoon Gulch Trail – there’s a reason they call this Gold Country. Then try traveling east on 108 up the grade past Pinecrest Lake and pause at Donnell Vista to view the volcanic ridges aflame in brilliant yellows and oranges. Peak season: Early September through October
Nevada County
A stroll down Nevada Street in historic district of Nevada City showcases century-old sugar maples and American sweetgums as they turn to brilliant red against the backdrop of Victorian buildings. The easy-walked Cascade Canal Trail is shaded by red-hued dogwoods and deep green Douglas firs. Empire Mine State Park in nearby Grass Valley is also adorned with the colorful leaves of ornamental sweetgums, silver maples, sugar maples and black oaks. Peak season: Mid-October thru Mid-November
San Bernardino County
The foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains near Oak Glen are home to golden oaks and the pumpkin patches of Riley’s Farm. The 2.4-mile loop at the Wildlands Conservancy Oak Preserve leads you through the apple orchards of the century-old Los Rios Rancho (Southern California’s largest apple farm). Peak season: Mid-October thru Early November
Georgia
Thinking of Georgia may conger up mental imagery of magnolia and peach trees, but the state is also home to some of the most spectacular, mountainous fall foliage in America – including yellow sweetgums, golden hickories and red dogwoods. Peak season: Early October thru mid-November
Vogel State Park, Georgia
On Foot
You can begin your Georgia leaf-peeping adventure just south of the Tennessee state line in Blairsville, where Vogel State Park and its 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail offer a bird’s-eye view of Lake Trahlyta and the abundance of natural color that surrounds it. Then drive west to explore the hardwood forest, crossing streams and lake trail of Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth near the Cohutta Wilderness. Here you’ll also find a stone fire tower built and ancient rock wall at the highest point of the mountain.
On the Road
If a relaxing ride is more your style, Wolf Pen Gap Road offers some of northern Georgia’s most inspiring vistas. The popular Dragon Eyes route includes 77 miles comprised of two loops with more than 700 curves, six gaps and spectacular views of the North Georgia mountains. A visit to Brasstown Bald is also highly recommended for a view of autumn’s splendor from the highest natural point in the state.
On a Train
Looking to add a new perspective to your leaf-peeping adventure? The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers half-day fall foliage excursions through early November. You’ll begin your journey at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, then wind your way along the Toccoa River in a vintage rail car, accompanied by the majesty of Mother Nature. But these train tours are very popular, so be sure to book reservations well in advance.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of America’s most naturally beautiful states any time of the year, but particularly in autumn. The Allegheny National Forest in northern PA may be the most popular place for leaf peeping, but we’ve picked a few more within a two-hour drive of Philadelphia International Airport. Peak season: Early to Mid-October
Hanover Trolley Trail in York County, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia County
The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge is a 1,000-acre preserve that transforms itself into a spectacle of color every autumn. This animal sanctuary is open all year but becomes most popular with locals as the leaves turn. You can not only observe hundreds of species of trees and plants, but a variety of birds and animals, as well. For a new perspective on fall foliage, bring a kayak or canoe and paddle down Darby Creek.
York County
The Heritage Rail Trail offers gorgeous autumn views – whether you choose to walk, hike or bike. For the best views, try take a ride on the Northern Central Railroad, which has been in operation since 1838. You can sit back, relax and enjoy nature in all its splendor as the conductor point out the vistas and shares a few stories of the railroad’s history.
Monroe County
Spanning the slopes and summit of Camelback Mountain of the Poconos, Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville is a natural choice when it comes to stunning views of New England’s most brilliant fall foliage. A walk to the summit reveals a vista of expansive, eye-catching colors that not only covers eastern Pennsylvania but portions of New Jersey and New York, as well.
Best of all, these are just a few locations for leaf-peeping in three of the United States. There are 47 more to explore and most of them undergo some sort of natural transformation every fall. They’re just a short plane ride away and this map will help you discover the peak season for visiting every one: www.almanac.com/fall-foliage-color-map-when-peak-foliage.
Of course, when you’re flying out, creating a more enjoyable travel experience starts before you even reach the airport. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, bring your binoculars – and don’t forget to reserve your airport parking space at WallyPark.
