Nature’s annual spectacle: Where to see the leaves

Fall officially started in September but according to the Travel Channel, October is the prime time to see the best of America’s fall foliage. During this month there will be many options for viewing as the color changes start happening in the New England area around September and conclude in the Southeast sometime in November as temperatures start decreasing across different climate zones.

Early leaf watchers will want to start in the Northeast region to capture the first colorings of fall.  Fodor’s recommends the Green Mountain Byway in the state of Vermont to discover one of the most iconic displays of the area.  The drive moves from Waterbury, the home base for Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, to Stowe, which is known for its ski resort.  Take advantage of the mountains in the area and stay in a place with a good view.  Enjoy the view from afar or while experiencing one of the many hiking trails.

In the Pacific Northwest, Yahoo recommends the Willamette Valley in northwest Oregon. The area has many scenic routes connecting major cities in the state that were intended to show off the area’s forests and rock lava formations. To keep eyes on the trees instead of the road, Oregon’s Travel Department highlights the network of scenic train rides available across the best leafing country.  There are also special stops to enjoy local crafters and photography destinations.

In the south, the Great Smoky Mountains region of North Carolina and Tennessee is a great place to visit until early November and, according to Fodor’s, there are over 100 different varieties of trees on display. The National Park Service recommends seeking out less congested viewing spots, like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to avoid the crowds and move at a leisurely pace.  Historic mills, breathtaking waterfalls, and hiking opportunities abound in this area.

Start locally, right in our backyard – Skyline Drive…