Leaf Safaris...In Search of Perfect Color
September 18, 2002GM Motor Club Suggests Taking Time To Enjoy Fall Color Changes
Southfield, Mich.- Whether you are a Floridian who misses the change of seasons or a city dweller yearning for a break from the concrete landscape, the fall color change is one of Mother Nature's most spectacular shows. From the state of Washington to West Virginia, the United States presents an abundance of color this autumn season and GM Motor Club points you in the right direction with a list of recommended top spots and tips.
- Peak season. Though autumn officially kicks off on September 23, colors usually begin to peak in early to mid-September and last through late October. According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, precipitation in parts of the northwest and northeast United States are five to ten percent below average. Consequently, trees in these areas may experience stress - resulting in accelerated color change. For detail on seasonal colors across the country, call the USDA Forest Service fall color hotline at 800-354-4595.
- Vibrant Vermont. Vermont offers the best fall foliage in the northeast. The typical season lasts from late September through mid-October, with the earliest of colors appearing in the Northeast Kingdom. This area is comprised of Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties. It received its nickname in honor of its sheer splendor. In fact, a beloved former governor and U.S. senator, George Aiken, proclaimed this area so spectacular that it should be described as a kingdom, the Northeast Kingdom. Groton State Forest, as noted by New England's Yankee Magazine, is also a prime setting for a color tour from September 1 through October 24. Seasoned "leaf peepers" suggest taking in the scenery from various views and vantage points such as farm areas, hills and meandering roads. Find out more at www.vermontfallfoliage.com.
- Awesome Appalachia - The Appalachian Mountain Range stretches from Alabama to southwestern Maine. Some of the most beautiful regions along this magnificent mountain range are found in Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia. The famed Appalachian Trail runs through this area. A short walk at one of its many access points will provide a splendid view. See www.tricounties.net for information. If you prefer a scenic tour from the comfort of your car, take the historic Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds 469 miles from Virginia up through the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. For more details, visit www.blueridgefriends.org.
- Colorful Colorado. The natural wonders of Colorado are typically accented with a blanket of fall color from late September through mid-October. However, the Colorado State Parks system says peak season will arrive earlier this year, due to dry conditions. With an abundance of locations to choose from, Ridgeway State Park's Sneffels Range is a picturesque backdrop for a leisure fall tour. Additional Colorado color tour ideas can be found at www.parks.state.co.us/fall/colors.asp.
- Washington wonder. Washington state's North Cascades National Park contains some of the northwest's most breathtaking color-streaked scenery. According to Washington's local website, Seattleinsider.com, scenic routes along the North Cascades Highway offer great views with the late afternoon sunlight - one of the best times to enjoy the contrasting colors. Go to www.nps.gov/noca for more information on North Cascades National Park.
- Magnificent Michigan. Michiganders agree that the state's Upper Peninsula is home to a breathtaking fall season. The USDA Forest Service recommends a tour of Ottawa National Forest in the state's western region. The Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Paradise, Michigan is also a local tour favorite. For further information, visit www.ring.com/travel/autumn.htm.
Sources:
USDA Forest Service --- www.travelthekingdom.com
National Parks Service --- www.tricounties.net
Seattleinsider.com --- www.blueridgefriends.org
Colorado State Parks --- STORMFAX Fall Foliage Guide
Yankee Magazine --- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration