RISMEDIA, October 1, 2010—TripAdvisor, one of the world’s largest travel sites announced the top ten fall foliage destinations in the U.S., according to a TripAdvisor survey of more than 2,300 travelers. From mountain peaks to seaside ports, these destinations offer a fabulous variety of activities for leaf-peepers.
1. Auburn Awakening: Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the foothills region of western North Carolina, Asheville is a spectacular location for leaf-peeping. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful views by peddling through the Appalachian Mountains on one of many biking trails, or hop in the car for a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Peak foliage-viewing is from mid to late October.
2. Mass Appeal: Boston, Massachusetts
Travelers visiting Boston this fall can stroll along the Charles River, enjoy a ride on the Swan Boats, or simply relax in the Public Garden for a glimpse of autumnal color. Lush foliage, sprawling grass, and sounds of nature in these serene spots allow travelers to forget they are in the midst of a bustling city. A TripAdvisor traveler said, Peak foliage-viewing is from late September through the middle of October.
3. Peak Views: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Leaf enthusiasts visiting Gatlinburg can enjoy the city’s small-town charm in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. With over 600 miles of hiking trails, there is plenty of room for exploration, including the Newfound Gap Road from which travelers can observe a brilliant tapestry of foliage at 1,400 feet above sea level. Peak foliage-viewing is from mid October to early November.
4. Champlain Wishes: Burlington, Vermont
A short walk from Church Street Marketplace lies Waterfront Park, where travelers can enjoy a stroll along the shores of Lake Champlain and become lost in the reflection of golden leaves with the mountains in the distance. Peak foliage-viewing is from the middle of September through the middle of October.
5. A Show in Stowe: Stowe, Vermont
Sparkling with shades of orange, gold, and crimson, it is not surprising that Stowe calls itself, “Fall’s Color Capital.” View the brilliant display of leaves from the comfort of a car while driving the scenic Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road. Peak foliage-viewing is from the middle of September through the middle of October.
6. Total Tranquility: Traverse City, Michigan
Visitors can enjoy the crisp fall air with Traverse City’s warming foliage and venture down Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for seven picturesque miles of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Peak foliage-viewing is from mid September through October.
7. Open Door: Door County, Wisconsin
Whether travelers are up for hiking, biking, or relaxing on a beach, nearby Peninsula State Park has it all. Spanning nearly 4,000 acres, travelers will be sure to get their fill of stunning foliage. Peak foliage-viewing is from late September through November.
8. Placid and Pristine: Portland, Maine
Travelers can view exceptional foliage throughout Portland, as well as visit exquisite boutiques within the Old Port District, watch fishermen as they return with a fresh catch, or head over to Portland Head Light. Peak foliage-viewing is from mid September through October.
9. Mountain Magic: North Conway, New Hampshire
Buried within the White Mountains National Forest lies the Kancamagus Highway and with more than 26 miles of roadway to meander, leaf-peepers will be captivated by the stunning blaze of color. Peak foliage-viewing is from late September to mid October.
10. Awesome Acadia: Bar Harbor, Maine
Travelers can experience the dazzling hues of fall while driving along the 40-mile stretch of the Acadia Byway and stop to enjoy the rocky coastlines, crisp foliage and evergreens at Acadia National Park. Peak foliage-viewing is from mid September to mid October.
For more information, visit www.tripadvisor.com.
