October draws thousands of visitors to New England who come to marvel at the blazing displays of autumn colour. If you are looking to experience Autumn colour without the crowds or enjoy the magic of ‘fall’ somewhere new, then our top spots to ‘leaf peep’ in the USA and Canada would be:
1. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Spanning 469 miles from Shenandoah National park, Virginia to The Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most loved scenic drives. Enjoy spectacular viewpoints across forest canopies, or hike amongst falling leaves on thousands of miles of trails enroute, including the fabulous Chimney Rock State park. Our 14 night ‘Heritage Highways’ self-drive tour includes Washington DC, Charleston, Shenandoa National Park and the Smoky mountains. Like all our fly-drives this can be tailored to meet your exact requirements including the size of hire car, the type of accommodation and of course your preferred destinations.
2. Algonquin Provincial Park. Ontario
Forming a triangle with the Eastern Canadian cities of Toronto and Ottawa, Algonquin Provincial Park is a spectacular wilderness. You’ll find dense forests, thousands of lakes and rocky ridges. Whether you walk, cycle or kayak here you will be treated to a wonderful display of fall colour. The colours tends to peak between the last week of September and the first week of October, so don’t leave it too late! You can include a visit to Algonquin on our bestselling 14 night ‘Eastern Splendours’ self drive which also includes Quebec and Niagara Falls.
3. Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan is a favourite state of ours here at AWWT and is also one of the best places in the USA to experience autumn colour without the crowds. It’s laid-back cities, beautiful state parks and lakeside location make it perfect for a summery road trip but come October the stunning vistas come into their own, particularly in the upper Peninsula. Here you will find seven million acres of forest that transforms into a kaleidoscope of burnt oranges, dazzling gold and fiery reds. Spend your days exploring mountain top views and rushing waterfalls, or discover one of the many farmers markets, wineries and craft breweries that call this part of the state home. Our 15 night ‘Grand Tour of The Great Lakes’ itinerary is a great introduction to Michigan or why not let one of our team create a bespoke itinerary for you
4. Nova Scotia, Canada
Just 7 hours from London, Halifax is your gateway to Autumn enchantment in Nova Scotia. For the very best of the ‘Fall’ colour you will want to head to Cape Breton, home to the Cabot trail or marvel at the forested shores of Kejimkujik National Park. In between autumnal hikes you can join in the pumpkin harvest or cosy up in a boutique B&B with a glass of local wine. Nova Scotia isn’t just about getting away from it all though, you will also find eclectic towns and cities which embrace the regions arts, culture and history. Our 15-night Nova Scotia itinerary is the perfect introduction to this delightful province. Our 15 night ‘Unique Nova Scotia’ itinerary is the perfect introduction to this part of Canada!
5. Pittsburgh, PA
A city best known for is steel making history might not be the obvious choice for Autumn colour, but you will be surprised! As well as a fantastic arts, food and sports scene, Pittsburgh is home to some beautiful parks, which come October will be showcasing a vibrant display of autumn leaves. With a number of beautiful parks and riverside cycle trails you won’t fail to miss the colourful autumnal displays that adorn the cities rolling hills. For an easy daytrip from the city, pick up a hire car and explore Moraine State Park in Butler County. Whilst paddling on the lake or taking a boat trip you may spot eagles soaring above the autumn foliage. Check out our City Break page for inspiration.
If you would like to experience autumn colour without the crowds or learn more about any of the destinations here then get in touch with our team on 01892 779900.
