It's easy to tell when autumn has arrived -- you smell the crispness in
the air and see gold and crimson on the trees. If you're a fan of fall
leaves, here's a quick rundown of the best times and places to take in those
technicolor views.
Northeast
The Weather Channel says
early October is the best time to check out New England's vibrant fall
foliage (mid-October for Pennsylvania and the coastline). The colors are the
most intense of any region because all the leaves change at the same time.
South
For varied and long-lasting color, the South is a great place
for autumn touring. Check out the southern extremities of the Appalachians,
like the Blue Ridge Parkway or Shenandoah National Park, in late October.
Midwest
Fall colors surrounding the Great Lakes shoreline make for
a beautiful autumn landscape. Expect most of the area to peak during
mid-October, though trees in Northern Michigan and Wisconsin will change
earlier in the month.
- The Miracle of Fall
This page, sponsored by the University of Illinois Extension, offers foliage
updates for Illinois and driving tours in Midwest and Eastern states.
- Stormfax Guide to Fall Foliage
Find toll-free foliage hotlines for states in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and
New England.
The Rockies
In the higher elevations, leaves start changing mid to
late September. Be there by early October or you'll miss the peak.
Great viewing areas include Rocky Mountain and Yellowstone National Parks.
The West
Like the Rocky Mountain states, trees at higher elevations
start changing mid-September. The Southwest peaks mid-October, while the
Northwest and California peak later in the month. Trinity and Shasta
National Forests are worth a look.
--- R.M.
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