Travel Tips & Trends

Quebec, Canada

Plan ahead for fall foliage travel

Every year, millions of Americans look forward to a fall foliage trip, and with good reason. For just a brief time each year, the world is treated to a spectacular show of brilliant colors that always amazes and inspires.

Given the widespread appreciation for autumn's colors, it's not surprising that a few misconceptions exist about fall foliage viewing.

Myth: There is a large variation each year in the quality of color.

A few exceptional years notwithstanding, the vividness of fall's colors are normally quite consistent. The timing may be earlier or later, but the actual quality of the display doesn't typically vary that much.

Myth: There is a clearly defined "peak time" for fall foliage.

In areas with a variety of tree species, the color display will evolve rather than have a single peak moment. Also, different areas within a given geographic range will peak differently. Here in Colorado, for example, peak times depend greatly on altitude. In Maine, peak times along the coast differ from those in the northern part of the state.

Myth: New England is the only place to enjoy autumn's colors.

New England is often considered the classic destination for fall foliage viewing, but it's hardly the only one. Other popular destinations outside of Colorado are Eastern Canada, Michigan, the mid-Atlantic and the Canadian Rockies.

Myth: A self-guided trip is best.

Heading off in a car for a fall foliage trip isn't the only choice available, and sometimes it's not the best choice. The experience is diminished for the driver, who needs to keep his or her eyes on the road instead of the scenery, and it's difficult to know the most worthwhile side trips. Numerous escorted tours are available and may be a better option in an unfamiliar area.

Hotels and tours in prime fall foliage areas often sell out months in advance, so, even though fall seems a long way off, now is the best time of year to plan and book a fall foliage vacation.