In San Francisco, we experience two seasons: pretty nice and not-as-nice. In fact, if I never left this city, I would be led to believe that our global climate was a moderate one, void of extremes, surprises or change of any kind. I'm quite fond of change, and I miss the about-face that Mother Nature commands every few months, which is why the traveler in me makes it a point to get out of San Francisco when each season calls.
Having already begun research on an easy fall getaway from the Bay Area, a request from a local TV show further fueled my motivation to get out of the city and off the beaten path. I was invited to be a guest on ABC's View from the Bay to talk about destinations where travelers can experience nature's vibrant display of changing leaves. (See video from the show below.) The show had just one request; they wanted to highlight fall foliage destinations not in the Northeast.
Even though it's not known for its brilliant fall colors, there are plenty of destinations in the western half of our country that offer memorable leaf peeping opportunities. I narrowed the list down to four spectacular getaways, focusing on places that are not only affordable and accessible from the West but that are also unique and adventurous. And, no, they're not in the Northeast.
Oak Creek Canyon
Peak Colors: Early-Mid October
Location: 13 miles from Sedona, Ariz.
Nestled in the Coconino National Forest, Oak Creek Canyon puts on a fall spectacular that surprises most travelers who expect a desert climate throughout Arizona. Enjoy a drive through the canyon, or pack a pair of hiking boots for a more personal encounter.
Photo Courtesy of Oak Creek Canyon.
Northern New Mexico
Peak Colors: Early-Mid October
Location: Albuquerque and Santa Fe
Head to Northern New Mexico to experience autumn near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, just outside of Santa Fe. View the scenery from afar while enjoying fall festivals in the area, including Albuquerque's International Balloon Fiesta.
International Selkirk Loop
Peak Colors: Varies upon location
Location: Washington, Idaho and British Columbia
Among the most beautiful scenic drives in the northwest, the International Selkirk Loop circles the Selkirk Mountains in northeast Washington, northern Idaho and southeast British Columbia. Fly into Spokane, Wash. and plan a custom itinerary, taking your time to enjoy the leisurely drive.
Photo Courtesy of International Selkirk Loop.
Southern Oregon
Peak Colors: Mid-Late October
Location: Ashland and Rogue River area
Get to know the small towns of Southern Oregon while staying at one of the many bed and breakfasts that dot the area. Attend the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, or explore the Rogue River wilderness area, where you'll be immersed in the colors of fall.
Before you book, check the US Forest Service fall foliage report for updated information on when to view peak colors for any given area of the country.
Photo courtesy of Oak Creek Canyon.
Comments
Sep 18, 2009
Good call. After living on the East Coast for five years, I miss the changing of the colors like nobody's business. Perhaps I can take a quick getaway to get my fix.