(MCT)—As nature parades her fall colors, share the glory with your family.
Here are five places to consider:
1. Purity Spring Resort, East Madison, New Hampshire
Check in to this family-owned getaway and enjoy apple-picking, country fairs and antique shopping in the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire. The kids will love racing through the Sherman Farms corn maze and exploring nearby hiking, mountain biking and sunset paddling on the Saco River, all with spectacular fall colors as your backdrop. Grab your camera and visit nearby covered bridges and waterfalls.
Contact: 800-373-3754; www.purityspring.com.
2. South Carolina Upcountry
Choose from a wealth of scenic side trips off Highway 11, the 112-mile-long Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway. Ride a zip line through the changing colors and picnic near Campbell’s Bridge, South Carolina’s only remaining covered bridge. Kayak at Paris Mountain State Park, then stop for homemade fudge or visit local apple orchards. Don’t miss Devils Fork State Park for wildlife-watching and to marvel at the half-dozen waterfalls that spill into Lake Jocassee.
Contact: www.greenvillecvb.com; www.theupcountry.com; www.scenic11.com.
3. Oregon Orange
Enjoy the changing hues as you and your family explore the 44-mile trail that winds through Oregon’s National Wild and Scenic Rogue River Canyon. The pathway, originally carved by miners, offers respite along the way in the form of five historic lodges that let trekkers explore by day and relax in comfort come nightfall. What’s more, your gear will be transported via river raft during the four-day, three-night outing, enabling hikers to catch a ride when weary and to enjoy the scenery with only a camera and binoculars to weigh down a pack.
Contact: 1-800-336-1647; www.wildrogue.com.
4. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, Arkansas
Visit Ozark country for purple, gold, orange and red fall colors set against stunning sandstone bluffs. Make time for horseback riding, a rock-climbing challenge, hiking, archery, family games, elk viewing and skeet shooting. The whole family will enjoy time in the petting zoo. Family cabins make for a cozy retreat at day’s end. Ask about discounts for four or more.
Contact: 800-480-9635; horseshoecanyonduderanch.com.
5. Spectacular Sedona
Marvel at the splendor of the season in northern Arizona, savoring the rich, visual treat from a pink Jeep, a helicopter or a hot-air balloon. With the red rocks of Sedona providing their own rich hues, take advantage of world-class hiking amid shimmering aspen leaves, check out canyon petroglyphs and shop for local arts and crafts. Stay at the pet-friendly Bell Rock Inn and enjoy studio accommodations where families can spread out, cook in and enjoy a warming fireplace on a cool autumn evening.
Contact: 877-444-8044; www.arizonatourismcenter.com.
