Stunningly Picturesque Destinations To Visit In October
By ALI SHARMAN
Western Massachusetts has the full breadth and beauty of the fall colors later in the year, making the Berkshires the ideal destination for leaf peeping in October.
The Berkshires
The best vistas of the vibrant leaves are found atop Mount Greylock. At 3,489 feet, it's the state's tallest mountain, with the view stretching over five states in clear weather.
A few hours from Boston and New York, this beautiful region offers orchards, winding country roads, farm-to-table dining, antique hunting, and pumpkin decorations.
This city in North Carolina has high elevations and diverse deciduous forests, creating prime conditions for spectacular leaf-peeping opportunities.
Asheville
Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina gives the best views of vibrant shades in October. Try the trails around Cataloochee or the rocky summit of Rough Ridge.
If it's too cold to hike, drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is over 400 miles long and passes by tunnels, overlooks, and cascading waterfalls.
This quiet Pennsylvanian region is one of the country's most iconic destinations to enjoy the breathtaking kaleidoscopic foliage displayed across the mountains.
The Poconos
Rent a kayak or canoe, and spend the day exploring hidden coves and islands on Lake Wallenpaupack and enjoying the changing colors of its vast shoreline from the water.
The Stourbridge rail line departing from Hawley combines old-world charm with scenic views as the historic train winds past rivers, pumpkin patches, and vibrant leaves.
Harvest season is in full swing in Oregon's wine country, with delicious produce and views over gold-tinged vineyards, a mild climate, and sunny fall days.
Willamette Valley
This October getaway is the perfect mix of fall foliage, local wines, and delicacies. It's one of the world's top producers of Pinot Noir and has many fine dining establishments.
Hike the Willamette National Forest or bike the 134-mile Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, following the river through quaint towns, farmlands, vineyards, and hop fields.
In October, temperatures have subsided, and the mild fall weather is perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying everything this unusual desert landscape offers.
Sedona
Surrounded by more than 1.8 million acres of national forest, a hike along West Fork Oak Creek Trail is ideal for seeing fall's changing colors against the backdrop of red rocks.
It will take you along streams and through canyons, with the foliage reflected in the water. There is rafting or kayaking down the Verde River, and some tours offer wine tasting.