See the Best Fall Colors

Is there anything better than the perfect fall day? Crisp air with a just a nip of cold and the scents of the season, the crunch of leaves under your feet, and a rainbow of lush natural hues as far as the eye can see.  While summer is officially here, now is the best time to look ahead and start planning your fall operations.  

Full of rich scenery and charming, rustic towns, one can experience a journey through a region rich in history and nature. In New England, many trees produce a pigment called Anthocyanin, which results in jewel-toned reds and purples. As nights grow longer, these trees stop creating green chlorophyll, allowing the Anthocyanins to shine. This vibrant process can best be seen in the region’s sugar maple trees.  

As this colorful season only lasts from late September to early October, the window to enjoy this experience is limited, and you will need the time to start logistic planning and marketing. With Destination America, we can take your guests on a journey through this autumnal wonderland and help customize trips to meet your audience’s needs – from food and experiences to accommodations and transportation, and beyond. No matter your guests’ ideal price point, we can craft a phenomenal journey within their budget. Here are just a few of the potential stops in New England your guests can visit to get the best views (and photos) of this time of year.  

Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts  

Spanning 63 miles, this former Native American trade route runs east to west through the northwestern part of the state, hugging the Berkshire Mountains between the region’s two river valleys. You can expect languid drives filled with stunning views of mountain streams and lush scenery. Nearby is the Bridge of Flowers – a pedestrian bridge traversing the Deerfield River that is covered in flowers planted by local volunteers.

Woodstock, Vermont

A quintessential New England village, Woodstock is the perfect place to experience that American charm, character and flavor. This quaint town is bustling with artisanal shops and restaurants, making it the perfect location for leisurely walks and window shopping. Just a scenic stroll away from the town center is Billings Farm & Museum – a fully operational dairy farm where guests can sample fresh, local Vermont cheese.

The Shires of Vermont

Located in the southwestern corner of Vermont within the Green Mountains National Forest and situated along Historic Route 7A reside 15 charming towns and villages, including the rustic shire towns of Bennington and Manchester. Guests can unwind after this picturesque drive at the The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa in Manchester, one of the top-rated hotels in the area.

Kancamagus Highway and The White Mountains

Dubbed “The Kanc” by locals, this 34.5-mile designated National Scenic Byway is enveloped in untouched natural beauty. Passing through the White Mountain National Forest, one can expect unbelievable views rich in color.

For those who enjoy a more active journey, guests can stop at the Raven Wildlife Program to learn about the local flora and fauna at the summit of Mt. Washington.  Afterwards, guests would descend into the forest and valley below to get a firsthand look at some of New Hampshire’s wildlife. Otherwise, guests can take a hike to Diana’s Baths – a historic site with a series of small pools and waterfall cascades.

If your guests prefer a touch of luxury on their vacation, they can spend the night at the Omni Mount Washington Resort, a luxury ski resort with storybook views that is a favorite retreat of presidents, poets, and celebrities alike. From there, they can take board the Mt. Washington Cog Railway that journeys to the summit of Mt. Washington and enjoy 360° views of the surrounding area that on a clear day includes five states, Canada, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Nestled in the rolling hills of North Conway sits the Fox Ridge Resort- a budget-friendly hotel option. Guests can shop for antiques in the historic downtown area, or journey through the scenic Crawford State Park and view the 4,000-foot Silver Cascade waterfall.

Acadia National Park

This 47,000-acre national park on Mount Desert Island in Maine is a nature lover’s paradise. Guests can start the day by being one of first in the United States to see the sunrise and admire the fiery colors of the Schoodic Peninsula. The pink granite cliffs serve as a backdrop for the ancient maple trees covered in rich reds, burnt orange, and cheerful yellows. Should they wish to document this vibrant view, guests can traverse its 27-mile Park Loop Road to observe and photograph the local foliage.

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