Fall Foliage in the Western United States
September 15, 2007. We recently highlighted some ideal locations for luxury vacation rentals in the major leaf-peeping regions of the Eastern U.S. Today, we'll point out a few great destinations in the West.
Yosemite – There are two reasons to love Yosemite in the fall. One, the grasses and oaks on the valley floor turn golden brown, while the aspen in the side canyons turn brilliant yellow (sometimes even orange). Two, the summer crowds are gone. Of course, the waterfalls may be dwindling as the last of the snowmelt expires, but there's plenty to look at in this national park.
Colorado Rockies – Go hiking in the Maroon Bells wilderness or ride the train from Durango to Silverton. Western fall colors in most wild areas depend almost entirely on the aspen, and Colorado has more than its share of these beautiful trees. In between summer vacation and ski season, visitors may even find reduced rates.
Cascades – The Cascades of the Pacific Northwest depend on the larch tree for their fall colors. Great places to see this wonderful tree include the Horseshoe Lake Hike, Ingalls Lake and Lake Ann. The North Cascades Highway and Methow Valley provide a wonderful scenic drive.
