by Jessica Howell

Where to find the brightest, boldest bounty of fall color

From the east coast to the west, the burnt hues of changing fall foliage light up the landscapes providing scenic panoramas unlike any other time of year. If you can swing it, traveling during these months is as visually stunning as it gets – from sweeping, vistas of rust, wine and golden colored leaves to the familiar scent of late night bonfires, wrap yourself in a cable knit sweater and set out for a stroll, hike or leisurely Sunday drive. Whether you park yourself at a local U-pick pumpkin patch or sample savory wines during harvest, autumn in the northern U.S. provides plenty of options for the picking – and we’re not only talking about apples.

To view a map detailing the peak times for fall color in all of the U.S., visit this link for weather.com:

Here, we’ve compiled some of our favorite places for fall’s fabulous finds and prime “peak” leaf-peeper spottings.

MAINE
When: The last week of September to the third week of October
Where: Leaves first change in the extreme north, then in the western mountains and central valleys, finally in the eastern, coastal and southern locations
Why: With 17 million acres of forest and 76 tree species, it’s not hard to come by lovely fall colors here. Hop onto one of Maine’s nine state and national scenic byways, like Route 17 in Byron or State Route 11 that follows Fish River, for amazing window views. For a slower ride, hitch a spot on Maine Eastern Railroad where some of the best views can be found along the state’s famous rocky coast.
More: visitmaine.com

VERMONT
When: Mid September to mid October
Where: Begin in the northeast and progress to the central region
Why: The combination of crisp autumn air, white clapboarded villages, and grand color makes Vermont a must-see for folks worldwide. What better way to experience the rush of fall beauty from an aerial perspective? Book a hot air balloon ride and you’ll do just that, garnering stunning views of the harvest colors at soaring heights, where the air is still and quiet and perfect for calm, autumn reflections.
More: vacationvermonth.com or balloonsovernewengland.com

CONNECTICUT
When: The first three weeks of October
Where: North and Northwest parts of the state
Why: Cruise the Litchfield Hills region for carefree drives that provide of plenty of stops for inquisitive visitors. From hometown playhouses and contemporary museums to wineries, shopping and the nation’s only national Park Service property devoted to art – Weir Farm, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of this colonial gem.
More: northwestconnecticut.com or litchfieldhills.com

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