October 16, 2018
Top 10 Fall Destinations
Shorter days, chilly nights and vibrant shades of gold, reds, and orange line the streets, surround valleys and hug mountainsides. Summer is far gone. The beaches are empty and sweaters and scarves replace shorts and sandals. Fall is HERE! So where is the BEST place to experience autumn in its full glory?! Don’t fret, we created the ultimate list of fall destinations that will take your breath away. So pack your bags and let's take a trip!
1. Arizona
Contrary to popular belief, Arizona isn’t all desert and cacti. Don't believe us? Check it out for yourself!! The summer months bring sweltering temperatures into Arizona, which can overshadow the beauty this desert oasis has to offer. Which is why Autumn is the PERFECT time to go explore all that Arizona has to offer! The crisp, fall air cools the state down, so take advantage of this sweet spot! Take a minute to traverse the spiritual mecca, Sedona, where you can find the turning leaves of the surrounding oak and maple trees. Or maybe you want to explore the National Parks like the Grand Canyon or Havasupai Falls. Fall is the ideal time to visit these parks, as the weather is perfect for hiking and all day exploration!
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Looking for incomparable fall foliage?! Look no further. Asheville, North Carolina has been named one of the top fall destinations due to its jaw dropping beauty, which can be seen throughout the entire city! Hold onto your Skova picnic blanket as you take a day driving around the windy roads of this town that hugs the Appalachian trail. View the fall colors on the surrounding mountains. It'll take your breath away.
3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
If you are about bike riding, fishing, hiking and being outdoors, Jackson Hole is just the place for you. With temperatures ranging from low 70's to high 40's, you'll be more than comfortable exploring this town! There are a handful of fall festivals that take place in the town, celebrating the transition from summer to winter. Don't forget to take a trip to Grand Teton National Park or the Granite Hot Springs, while the weather is ideal for an all day adventure!
4. Walla Walla, Washington
Did someone say wine?! Forget Napa, the place to kick off the autumn season with a scenic wine tour is Walla Walla, Washington. This hot, new destination is home to over 120 wineries! Not only is it unparalleled in beauty, but Walla Walla was also named "The Friendliest Small Town" by various sources. So round up your gal pals, some bohemian beach towels with cute printed designs, and raise a glass to Walla Walla and the changing season!
5. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Take a break from your hectic, everyday life and head to eastern Tennessee to bask in the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. The colorful show performed by Mother Nature can be seen anywhere, however driving around town offers infinite opportunities to experience the fall foliage. Insider tip: check out Clingmans Dome Road, the Foothills Parkway and Blue Ridge Parkway for spectacular scenery.
6. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
Immerse yourself in an Autumn wonderland by taking the iconic 105 mile drive through the
Shenandoah Valley's Skyline Drive. There are also plenty of hikes that offer panoramic views of the fall foliage, such as Little Stony Man and Crescent Rock. Perfect spot to bring out your picnic rug. You won't be disappointed making a trip to Shenandoah and exploring the valley, national parks, and surrounding towns!
7. Hogback Mountain, Vermont
You definitely won't be lacking colorful, scenic views at Hogback Mountain. You can hang around the base, which is still gorgeous, but if you are up to the hike, the views from the peak are indescribable. If driving around is more your speed, take Route 9 on a clear day and you'll be able to enjoy views of Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The autumn chill also brings out a variety of wildlife, such as black bears, bobcats, and deer.
8. Michigan
This Great Lake state has so many cities that offer autumn fun! Mackinac Island bursts with vibrant fall colors and is home to the famous Pumpkin Spice fudge that had been in production for over a century! Michigan's upper peninsula offers over seven million acres of tree coverage... making this destination a MUST SEE in autumn. It is such a powerhouse for fall foliage, there are countless fall color tours one can take to get the pure Michigan experience. You will be sure to experience fall with a trip to Michigan.
9. New York
Unlike the other destinations on this list, New York is more concrete than anything else, however, fall time in this east coast city has a lot to offer! For starters, the weather is amazing! There is a cool breeze in the air, but not quite the winter chill that will come in December. The iconic Central Park glows with shades of reds, oranges, and golds, as the leaves change alongside the temperature. Tired of the city? Head up north to upstate New York where you can find cider mills and apple orchards and of course, unbelievable fall foliage. Of course, you have to bring along the stylish staple every woman needs.
10. California
Although California does not offer the jaw-dropping, fall foliage like the rest of the country, the autumn season is something to look forward to in California. Since autumn is considered to be part of the golden state's "off-season", it is the perfect time to visit without the masses of tourists. Take a trip to Yosemite without the unbearable heat, or drive along the coastline to Big Sur in hopes to see humpback whales and orcas migrating! Just because California isn't covered in fall colors, doesn't mean they do not exist. Insider Tip: Check out Bishop Creek Canyon, June Lake Loop, Shasta Cascade, Plumas County and Lake County for unique fall colors in California.
There are SO MANY beautiful places to visit this time of year! We hope this list fuels some autumn adventure and inspires you to travel somewhere new! And remember, no trip is complete without your bohemian Skova Travel towel or perhaps a printed travel picnic rug! Get yours today!!
Safe travels!
xx
SKOVA team