Off The Beaten Path: Fall Foliage

Every year, autumn delights us with grand displays of color. And every year Americans flock to prime places to see magnificent landscapes filled with reds, oranges and yellows. This year, we invite you to go on an adventure to locations where there are less crowds but just as many radiant trees.

Black Hills, South Dakota

I went to high school in the foothills and enjoyed the beauty of the area. In autumn, the scenic Black Hills in South Dakota transform into a sea of gold-draped cottonwoods and aspens. The towering mountain range stretches across thousands of acres is best-known for containing Badlands National Park and Mount Rushmore. However, it's also one of the best places to chase the changing leaves. Stop into Custer State Park to view the leaves against a backdrop of granite spires, rolling mountains and 1,500 bison grazing. Most tourists visit the park in late September to watch the Buffalo Roundup, so if you want to enjoy the scenery without heavy crowds, arrive in October. Embrace the magnitude of the mountains with a bike ride, run, hike or walk on the crushed stone surface of the George S. Mickelson Trail, which yields epic views of the leaves. Another favorite viewing spot is Spearfish Canyon, where limestone cliffs meet dense forests of red, yellow, green and orange birch, aspen, oak and cottonwood trees. Minneapolis - St. Paul

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Home to over 20 forested state parks and 4 million acres of smoldering aspen, beech, birch, maple, oak and sycamore trees, Michigan's Upper Peninsula comes to life in a spectacular array of fiery fall colors each October. What makes this area especially striking at this time of year is the contrast from the sapphire waters of the Great Lakes, the eroded white limestone of the cliffs and the brightly painted leaves. For a memorable hotel stay, retreat to one of the state's largest lighthouses, Sand Hills, which also happens to be an eight-room inn.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Georgia

My daughter lives in the area and sure enjoys the beauty of Georgia. Fall is easily one of the most beautiful seasons in the South, especially in Georgia. Just south of Atlanta in the rolling hills and mountains of Dowdell's Knob you'll find F.D. Roosevelt State Park, the largest park in the state. From late October through early November you'll be greeted with bright bursts of yellow and gold throughout the park. The best way to take in the color display is by hiking, biking or picnicking along the 40-plus miles of trails.

Pine Creek Gorge, Pennsylvania

Stretching across nearly 50 miles, Pennsylvania's Pine Creek Gorge features a breathtaking fall display of deep reds, yellows, oranges and purples in early October. For show-stopping views of the trees splendor, hike or bike the historic 60-mile Pine Creek Trail. The path winds through the gorge, offering up-close and personal views of the ever-changing colors of countless trees. Another local favorite is Colton Point State Park, which covers 368-acres and offers impressive views of the canyon and river. 

Door County, Wisconsin

Though many residents would argue Door County's crisp fall foliage is no longer a secret, the scenic 75-mile Wisconsin peninsula still welcomes tourists with small-town hospitality. Nestled between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, this peninsula erupts in eye-catching shades of orange and crimson. What makes Door County even more splendid in autumn is the plethora of activities happening all over the county, from harvest festivals to roadside hot cider stands to farmer’s markets, lake cruises and more. For sweeping views of the trees from above, book a scenic airplane tour over the area. 

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. 

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
rawhidetravel.com