Leaf Peeping Planning Guide
Millions of people each year look forward to the
magnificent colors on display in autumn. Fall offers
irreplaceable views, whether you’re atop a mountain ridge or
thick in the folds of a forest. In addition, the crackle of
leaves underfoot and the earthy smell of the soil tempts the
senses even more.
Some advance planning can help make fall foliage trips that much
more enjoyable and awe-inspiring.
Peak Viewing Times
Areas of the northern-most latitude will start to show color
earlier than more southern areas. Generally speaking, the
leaf-viewing season begins in late September and runs through
early November for much of North America. Peak times for viewing
depend on areas of travel and time of year. For large swaths of
Canada and the United States, plan trips for late-September to
mid-October. The Weather Channel offers maps and charts at
www.weather.com/maps/fall-foliage for the
peak times for many areas of the U.S.
Pick Your Destination
In
addition to our backyard New Hampshire, anywhere with deciduous
trees provides the opportunity to witness blazing autumn color.
During leaf-peeping season, travelers can go coast to coast and
see awesome vistas. Some regions are particularly known for
their leaf displays. New York’s Catskill and Adirondack regions
are prime spots for visitors in the autumn. Those who live
further north will find that leaves in Vermont are such an
attraction that routes are published indicating where to enjoy
the best views. Further south, Central and Eastern Virginia peak
in late October. And don’t forget the shores of the Great Lakes,
which are awash in reds, oranges and yellows by mid-September.
The travel resource Frommer’s offers more leaf-peeping locales
to visit.
Pack The Right Gear
While most people are not without a smartphone that can capture
amazing high-resolution imagery, serious leaf photographers may
want to take out their prized camera equipment for leaf-peeping
excursions. Also bring along a map or a GPS-enabled device so
you can explore back roads and areas off the beaten path more
readily.
There are plenty of apps that can help with foliage-finding
adventures, so a phone is a handy tool. When packing, also bring
along hiking boots, comfortable layered clothing and any
equipment you’d normally take for an afternoon in the great
outdoors.
Another idea is to hit the ATM machine prior to the visit. Many
smaller towns and their local shops may not take credit cards,
so it’s best to have cash on hand for food and souvenirs.
Extend The Day
Make leaf-peeping part of a larger series of events for the day.
Scope out vineyards where you can sample local wines or plan
trips around orchards, where you can come home with beautiful
photos as well as fresh-picked apples and pumpkins. You may find
a county fair or street festival while exploring.