Another beautiful leaf season has arrived. Imagine the enjoyment and awe-inspiring beauty of driving through the stunning leaves. Here are five destinations with amazing geology that will also scratch your leaf-viewing itch for 2022.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Take a trip to Bar Harbor, Maine. The fall foliage will be dramatic and breathtaking. While you’re here visit the geologic treasure that is Acadia National Park. It is one of the top ten most visited parks in the United States. Watch the first sunrise in America from the rocky shoreline on Ocean Drive; then drive, bike or walk around the park taking in the spectacular views. The park boasts 16-foot-wide broken stone roads, which are, often referred to as an engineering wonder. Local workers quarried granite on Mound Desert Island to build the network of roads as well as 17 stone bridges.
Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
Many of us may be familiar with the Ozarks from the popular Netflix show; however, the Ozarks are known for more than a money laundering scheme. In fact, the Ozark National Forest features 1.2 million acres of fall scenery. This picturesque forest has much to do and see from cavern tours to hunting. When visiting during the fall leaf season, you’ll see brilliant displays of oranges, reds, yellows and greens. Geologic features abound throughout the forest including the rugged mountains created by plateau erosion from swift rivers.
Catskill Mountains, New York
Discover the geologic stories that helped shape the landscape of the Catskill region when visiting the Empire State during your fall foliage tour. It is one of the best places to watch the changing leaves with numerous viewing options including Mount Utsayantha, Hunter Mountain, Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway and Walnut Mountain Park. Regardless if you camp or glamp, take a scenic drive by the waterfalls and deep reservoirs.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont, is called “Fall’s Color Capital” and is considered the #1 “Top 10 Foliage Destination in the U.S.”. Popular scenic routes to view the foliage include Moscow and Little River, Brush Hill, Sterling Valley, and Mud City. While in Vermont hiking trails or attending festivals, don’t forget to visit Mount Mansfield, Stowe’s highest mountain.
The Poconos, Pennsylvania
Fall foliage chasers can bask in leaves of happiness in the Poconos Mountains. With more than 127 varieties of trees, shrubs and plants spanning 2,400 square miles that include three color zones, you can catch peak color three times! Make sure to stop by one of the 14 National, State or Local parks while visiting Pennsylvania. The Delaware Water Gap National Park is known for its beauty and has more than 1,200 feet of mountain views.