If you want to experience peak leaf colors along with the twists and turns that make for the best Autumn rides, now is the time to start planning your next road trip! While there are loads of options across this beautiful country of ours, here are a few that top the list, including two located right here in the Northeast.
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Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia:
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This scenic route features 469 miles of splendor at any time of the year, but it’s especially gorgeous when fall colors are at peak performance.
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- This exceptional parkway links the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky National Park in North Carolina.
- Most of the trek is a 45 MPH zone, so you can take in the scenery while enjoying this well-maintained stretch of roadway.
- Hop on and hop off all along the route to discover sleepy mountain towns, great hikes, and waterfalls.
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If you’re up for spectacular color along the northern shores, this one is for you.
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- There are 100 miles of opportunity along Grand Traverse Bay, and you’ll be flanked by miles of pine and spruce in all their glory.
- You can discover charming towns and attractions, too, such as the Grand Traverse Lighthouse or the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
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Gunnison-Crested Butte, CO:
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This is home to the country’s largest aspen grove, so expect to see mind-blowing colors in the fall.
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- Add in the majestic mountain vistas and canyon drops of Gunnison National Park via the West Elk Loop and you’ve got all the makings of a rewarding round trip.
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Named “one of America’s most scenic drives” by National Geographic Travel and endorsed by Harley Davidson as Pennsylvania’s best touring route, Route 6 really does live up to its reputation.
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- 400 miles of open roads are enhanced by loads of loop trail options designed specifically for motorcycle riders.
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Cadillac Mountain, Maine (Northeast)
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This state is made for scenic rides and fall colors amidst mountains, ocean, forests, and quaint New England towns.
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- Make sure you take Bar Harbor’s Cadillac Mountain Summit Road to Cadillac Mountain for show-stopping color and mountain majesty guaranteed to provide amazing photo ops.
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Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts (Northeast)
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Another gem of the Northeast, the Mohawk Trail, is a historic route that runs for 69 miles through the Berkshire Mountains.
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- This road winds through picturesque valleys and offers views of rivers, covered bridges, and charming small towns.
- The Berkshires burst into color each fall, creating a perfect backdrop for a leisurely road trip. Check out the famous hairpin turn on Route 2 for a panoramic view of the Hoosac Valley, and don’t miss a stop at the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls for a unique twist on fall foliage.
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With all these scenic routes to choose from, your fall road trip is bound to be a memorable one. Whether you're staying close to home or exploring a new part of the country, the vibrant hues of autumn and the open road await!
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