The fall foliage months of September, October, and November provide an excellent backdrop for some very scenic drives throughout America. It’s this time of year when the deciduous tree leaves reach maturity and change color before falling to the ground. While there are many road trips out there, here is a list of five excellent drives.
Skyline Drive – Virginia
Weaving through Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive is one of the prettiest drives in America. The height and geology of the Appalachian Mountains form a perfect combination for witnessing the fall season at its best and with more than 75 overlooks and 500 miles of nearby trails, you’ll certainly have the opportunity to do so.
Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina, Virginia
Also in the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a road not to be missed. Crossing two states and covering 469 miles of misty mountains and lush valleys, its scenery has scarcely changed since the days of Daniel Boone.
Green Mountain Highway – Vermont
Virtually bisecting the state from top to bottom for 216 miles, Route 100 runs parallel with the Green Mountain National Forest and provides stunning fall scenery. Be sure to take it slow to experience all this lovely state has to offer including old farms, quaint villages, and some of the nicest people in the country.
Scenic Highway 7 – Arkansas
Highway 7 is often rated as one of America’s top 10 scenic drives. Crossing through both the Ouachita and Ozark National Forest, it offers superb views of the hills and valleys of western Arkansas. Be sure to stop by the mountain town of Jasper which is a hub for fall hiking.
West Elk Loop – Colorado
This noose-shaped route which starts at Carbondale and travels through Paonia, Hotchkiss, Crawford, Gunnison, and Crested Butte is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado. The byway covers 205 miles and takes about 6-8 hours to travel. Highlights include the West Elk Mountains and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
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