Summer is waning and the air is getting crisp. Before you know it, winter will be upon us. Don’t let that get you down, though. Autumn is more than just a transitional pit stop between summer’s dog days and winter’s wonderland. Make an effort to stop and smell the roses – or see the leaves, in this case. Mother Nature gifts us with a panorama of reds, yellows and oranges during this season, so plan some autumn appreciation to see the fall foliage in all its splendor. Take a scenic drive, go for a hike, pack a picnic and roll in the leaves. Bonus, rates are often lower and the weather is mild. We’ve raked up North America’s 8 best autumn getaways for you to leaf through.
1. Algonquin Park, Ontario
Algonquin Park in northern Ontario is the quintessential Canadian wilderness. It shows off particularly well in fall, with red maple leaves as far as the eye can see. Mid-September through October is the peak time to take in the color show. Whether you’re on the road, on the trails or paddling on the water, a fall visit to this back country will make autumn your favorite season.
2. Walden Pond, Massachusetts
Philosopher Henry David Thoreau lived in a one-room cabin on Walden Pond for two years, and his writings pioneered the conservationist movement. You may be inspired to take pen to paper yourself when your eyes take in the colorful foliage in autumn. Take a hike around the pond, visit a replica of his humble home, and soak in the scenic serenity. Thoreau was right – simple pleasures like this really do enrich the soul.
