Summer may linger in Florida, but across the country and across the pond as the season fades, rich fall colors emerge. Vibrant landscapes display shades of gold, orange and red. The crisp air beckons hikers to lace up their boots and get outside. For those who prefer a laid-back seasonal experience, scenic views abound – whether from your car window or the windows of a mountain or lakeside resort. From New York to the Pacific Northwest to a wellness resort in Italy, autumn escapes await at these colorful destinations.
Embrace Autumn in Lake Placid, New York
The picturesque Adirondack region boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country. Popular trails like High Falls Gorge offer stunning views of the Au Sable River spilling over ancient granite cliffs. Other must-visit hiking destinations include Whiteface Landing, Catamount Mountain, and Whiteface Mountain.
The luxurious Whiteface Lodge serves as a gateway to prime hiking spots where visitors can fully immerse themselves in autumn’s charm.
Step into the Victorian Era on the Hudson River Valley, New York
Discover an idyllic retreat just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of New York City, where the Hudson River Valley transforms into a mosaic of fall colors. For a taste of history while gazing at the foliage, explore the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail to see a testament of Victorian engineering and the region’s industrial past. For a more leisurely stroll or bird-watching experience, Rockefeller State Park offers serene woodlands, lakes and meadows.
Situated in the lower Hudson River Valley in Westchester County, Tarrytown House Estate provides the perfect nature escape from Manhattan with storied ambiance, stunning hiking trails nearby, and plush Georgian-style comforts.
Spend a Weekend Lakeside in Canandaigua, New York
When the leaves start to change, the Finger Lakes come to life with bursts of natural colors and a nice crisp autumn breeze. With many Finger Lakes hiking trails, adventure seekers can explore the Dryer Road Park multi-use trail system, or 23 miles of Ontario Pathways trails perfect for birdwatching, botanical walks, and fall leaf peeping. Just a brief distance away, Bristol Mountain beckons with an array of trails and scenic views to take in the beauty of the changing colors.
For lodging, consider the Lake House on Canandaigua which provides the perfect setting for a fall leaf-peeping experience as you look out over Canandaigua Lake. After a day of hiking, enjoy a boat cruise around Canandaigua Lake.
Experience Manhattan in Full Color
Manhattan takes on a new, vibrant character for the arrival of the fall creating urban enchantment adorned with autumn hues. The bustling streets transform into their autumnal best and Central Park becomes an ideal spot for leaf peeping with its golden foliage. Most people do not realize that Central Park has an abundance of hiking trails from the North Woods to the Northwest Central Park Loop.
For a stay that complements this transformation, Sofitel New York offers a quiet oasis perfectly situated in the heart of Midtown only steps away from Bryant Park and other iconic New York destinations.
Head West for an Adventure on the Columbia River Gorge, Washington
When it comes to embracing the beauty of the changing fall leaves, the Pacific Northwest is a hidden gem well worth exploring. Particularly, the Columbia River Gorge with its steep cliffs and winding river adorned with a mix of vibrant maples and aspens that create the perfect contrast against evergreens and the rugged terrain. For adventurous souls, the Columbia River Gorge has plenty of hikes for chasing waterfalls like Multnomah Falls.
What better way to be immersed in the beautiful foliage than to sleep under towering timbers and enjoy hiking trails right outside your door? Skamania Lodge has everything you need for the perfect outdoor experience to see nature’s changing colors with over 293,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. There are four miles of nature trails located on the property complete with views of the Cascade Mountains, Wy’East Lake, Red Bluff Mountains and Lily Pad Lake. A fitness trail is also available for those wanting to break a sweat while relishing the autumnal atmosphere.
Cross the Pond for a Wellness Retreat in South Tyrol Region, Italy
For a leaf-peeping adventure abroad, northern Italy is renowned for its gorgeous fall foliage and autumnal sights. The Dolomites and the Alps Mountain ranges allow for an impressive array of forests with comfortable temperatures and a crisp fall air. There is no better time to visit this region than during the fall before the rush of skiers.
Preidlhof, a luxury wellness resort at the foot of the Texel Group Nature Park, offers multiple opportunities to explore these leaf-peeping locations with excursions to the Dolomites landscapes. Explore the Alpe di Siusi by bike or enjoy a gastronomic experience near the Fiè Lakes to make the most of the changing natural landscape.