August humidity had us cranking up our air conditioners and ditching outdoor jogs, walks with dogs, or bike rides. Now that Fall has arrived we can get out and be active once more while soaking in the beauty of the turning of the seasons. Grab a walking buddy and head to a local trail to watch the leaves turn while getting in a workout. Or make it a weekend getaway near one of these U.S. natural beauties that boasts all the beauty of Fall.
Colorado
When the snow melts in Aspen, Colorado, you should definitely set out to the Maroon Bells area. The valley was formed by a glacier approximately a billion years ago, leaving behind gorgeous mountain ranges set behind a lake that reflects Fall colors beautifully. Maroon Bells is full of leisurely trails suited for just about anyone.
New York
The Breakneck Ridge trail earned its name from its steep ascent on the side of a rocky cliff. If you’re up for the climb, the overarching view of the East Hudson Highlands is well worth it. After a quick train trip from New York City, you’ll be treated to a view of a sea of trees in all their Fall splendor.
Virginia
Perhaps one of the most popular Fall destinations, Virginia, offers some of the best views of autumnal foliage. Shenandoah National Park offers a scenic route for strolls and easy bike riding as well as a more challenging nine-mile hike along the Old Rag Mountain trail.
Vermont
Take your canine with you through the Stowe Pinnacle trail in Vermont’s Putnam State Forest for a gorgeous view of fall foliage and distant mountaintops. On the way back, be sure to stop at a local orchard for some apple picking and cider.
Oregon
Take a quick trip from the city of Portland to Forest Park Oregon. Catch a sunrise over Mount Hood while it’s covered in beautiful hues of orange, red, and all those feel-good Fall colors.
California
While the coast might not be the classic scene an ideal Fall destination brings to mind, Half Moon Bay, located on the coast of San Francisco, offers a long walk with dry fall grasses just a few feet from the waves of the Pacific. You’ll also find a plethora of pumpkin picking areas and towns decked with Fall decorations throughout the Half Moon Bay area.
Montana
What better place than the Midwest to get lost in miles of trees? Walk through a canopy of turning leaves and you’ll be treated to a scenic waterfall at the end of the Blodgett Canyon trail in Hamilton, Montana. The five-mile trek is a relatively easy hike, unlike waterfall views on steeper inclines.
