CHASING FALL COLOR OCTOBER is when New England's forests begin their annual transformation, filling the landscape with shades of red, orange, gold and yellow. In Rhode Island, the state's northern and western areas are generally Vermont's foliage generally begins in the higher elevations and northern portions of the state before
moving into valleys and southern communities. The state's tourism office identifies the last week of September and first week of October as a typical peak period in many areas, although southern Vermont and lower elevations can retain color later in the month. Stowe, Woodstock and the Green Mountains remain popular destinations, but some of the most memorable views can come from leaving the major highways and following smaller roads through villages and countryside. Because conditions vary by year and location, check Vermont's weekly foliage reports before setting out. A little flexibility can make the difference between arriving just before peak and catching the landscape at its most colorful. NEW HAMPSHIRE: FOLLOW THE MOUNTAINS SOUTH New Hampshire's varied elevations allow travelers to follow the progression of color over several weeks. Northern areas and higher elevations generally change before locations farther south and closer to the coast. The Kancamagus Highway, which crosses the White Mountain National Forest, remains one of New England's signature fall drives. Mountain vistas, overlooks, forests and opportunities to stop along the route make it a classic October destination. Timing can be difficult to predict with precision. New Hampshire's tourism office notes that weather plays a major role in determining both the timing and intensity of fall color, which is why its historical peak map is best used as a planning guide alongside its weekly foliage reports and Foliage Tracker. MAINE: FROM THE NORTH WOODS TO THE COAST Maine's size gives leaf-peepers one of the longest opportunities to follow fall color in New England.
among the first to show significant color, with the season progressing toward the coast as the month unfolds. That makes October an ideal time for a scenic drive, day trip or weekend getaway close to home or farther into New England. The timing, however, is never exact. Temperature, rainfall, drought, wind, elevation, daylight and tree species all influence when leaves change and how long they remain on the branches. Rather than searching for one perfect weekend, think of foliage as a moving show. As northern and higher-elevation destinations pass their peak, color continues southward and into lower elevations, giving travelers multiple opportunities to follow the season. OCTOBER: THE MAIN EVENT If there is one month to set aside for leaf-peeping, make it October. Early in the month, northern New England and higher elevations are often among the strongest choices. As the season progresses, peak color moves into central and southern New England, with coastal areas generally following later. That progression gives Rhode Islanders an advantage. A few hours on the road can put you in a different stage of the season, making it possible to plan several foliage outings rather than relying on a single weekend. VERMONT: MOUNTAINS, VILLAGES AND BACK ROADS Few places are more closely associated with a New England autumn than Vermont. The Green Mountains, country roads, covered bridges, historic villages and working farmland create the backdrop, while maple trees provide some of the season's most recognizable reds and oranges.
18 DISCOVER RHODE ISLAND
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online