Autumn is the time of year where the leaves start to change color. Some parts of the country see a more pronounced effect than others. If you happen to live in an area where autumn blends in with summer and winter, then you may want to get out to see what the season is all about. Here are some great destinations you can visit that you and the kids will remember for years to come.
1. Shenandoah National Park
Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a mere 75 miles away from Washington, D.C. This is a great spot to visit if you consider yourself an avid hiker. There are over 500 miles of trails at this park, but there are also plenty of spots where you will want to stop and take in the view. There are some stellar vistas and wonderful waterfalls. You can even pack a picnic to enjoy with the family while you are here.
2. Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway
Massachusetts is one of the best states to visit during the fall. Not only will there be bursts of color on every tree, but you can also check out Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway. It consists of a 35-mile stretch where you will witness a rich array of landscapes. If you drive through it in early October, then you will get a chance to enjoy the roads being littered with scarlet, red and gold leaves.
3. The Kanc
Anyone visiting New Hampshire would do well to check out the 37-mile trek that is The Kanc. It will take you through some of the nearby mountains, and you will drive through many beautiful covered bridges. If your family feels like getting out of the car for a little bit, then you can enjoy hiking trails as well as a zip line tour. You will get a bird’s eye view of everything the state has to offer.
4. Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
One of the crown jewels of Ohio is the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. This journey will last for about 26 miles, and you will get a chance to see some of the most fascinating sites the state has available. Not only will you see the gorgeous autumn foliage, but you will also discover mysterious caves that line the trek. If your family is more of an adventurous bunch, then you will definitely want to rent a canoe or take a hot air balloon ride while you are in the area.
5. Route 1 in Maine
Driving through scenic fall foliage does not get much better than heading over to Route 1 in Maine. You will get a chance to see some of the picturesque shores that line the state. If you really want to check out some impressive vistas, then you need to hike the Mountain Loop trail. Once you reach the summit, you will get to enjoy the impressive sea of colors down below.
6. Olympic Trail
People who are used to the hustle and bustle of city life may want to reconnect with nature by heading over to the Olympic Trail in New York. This region is home to the largest natural wilderness area in the Eastern United States, known as the Adirondacks. When driving along the trail, you will see both Lake Champlain and Lake Ontario. You will also see an array of gorgeous trees, including beech, birch and oak.
7. The Million Dollar Highway
People in Colorado or the nearby states would do well to check out the Million Dollar Highway at some point. You will find this 25-mile stretch of road between Ouray and Silverton. Autumn is actually the best time of year to check it out because, during the winter, it can become a tad treacherous. There are numerous twists and turns that will take you along plenty of sheer cliffs. With all the vivid colors autumn brings, this is one route that needs to be seen to be believed.
Even if you only have a weekend to break out of your routine, you should definitely use it to your advantage to take a short road trip. You can use it as your chance to reconnect with nature. Tell the kids to put the smartphones down for a second and enjoy some gorgeous foliage.
