A Riot of Color: New England in the Fall Has to Be Seen
When it comes to what area boasts the most jaw-dropping colors during fall, North America wins hands down. Even though a vast amount of the northern hemisphere witnesses the change of leaves, with soft yellows and browns intertwined with a splash of red every now and again, these subtle changes are nothing compared to what you’ll see in North America.
Photos can’t do justice to the blazing colors that sweep across the hills and valleys, with oranges, purples, golds, and scarlets adorning most of the plant life. Whether you’re seeing this first-hand for the first time or it’s your five-hundredth time, it’ll still take your breath away. And the best bit? This spectacular yearly show is 100% free.
Even though much of North America boasts this incredible change of color, it’s New England that’s often hailed as the must-see region. Its special touch comes from the white farmhouses and red barns, gorgeous village greens and steepled churches – all of which are a photographer’s dream.
Thankfully, exploring this riot of color couldn’t be easier. Here’s how:
Plan Your Trip
It’s tempting to say you’ll just drive through New England looking at the beautiful vistas, stopping off as and when you feel like it. However, expert “leaf peepers” will find a base so they can join in with a number of other autumnal traditions in the local area. These range from pumpkin-carving competitions to harvest festivals and country fairs – the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture of the location.
However, to make sure you’re not caught out by the high-season prices, book your hotel and car bookings in advance, especially if you’re going there for the weekend. Look for nearby hotels that will provide you with a great base that you can travel from.
For example, Marriott Renaissance in Boston is ideal for seeing the highlights of the city while also being able to enjoy the trees by train, journeying from Boston to Portland (Maine), for example.
Escape the Crowds
Due to the popularity of New England in the fall, you may want to head off the beaten track, exploring some of the lesser-known towns that are off the backroads.
Some great, tranquil trips include starting in Gorham, New Hampshire, before heading north along Route 16 to Great North Woods. There you’ll find the odd moose and some stunning mountain views. Or, in western Massachusetts, you can journey south from Greenfield to Amherst, traveling along the Connecticut River. One of the best stop-off points along the way is Deerfield, which has been beautifully conserved over the years and gives you an insight into a bygone era.
Alternatively, you might want to fly high above the hustle and bustle, taking a cable car to some of the area’s ski resorts. Here you’ll often find great strolls that provide you with unprecedented panoramas.
Other things to avoid if you don’t want to get caught up in too much traffic is Route 100 at the weekend and any of the popular areas during Columbus Day Weekend.
Finally, don’t forget to take some lunch with you wherever you go, because you may find it hard to locate a quiet lunch spot. Opt for picnics on the back roads or in the woods as this will provide you with the perfect tranquility.