Five fabulous fall trips for leaf-peeping

Summer isn’t quite over, it’s true, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the cooler weather – especially if, like us, you’re in one of those areas where it feels like the heat will never break.

Fall temps mean fall leaves, and the frenzy over where to peek at those leaves is always fun. Here are some options around the country where the drive takes you through some of the best and most colorful views. And, as always, visit the Go Camping America site to check out the great options for campgrounds and RV parks along the way.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

From late September through mid-October, the area along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which starts 13 miles east of Portland, Ore., on Interstate 84, is a smorgasbord of color, with maple trees, ash and cottonwoods all vying for best in show. The waterfalls en route  – check out Multnomah or Wahkeena falls – are dramatic against the brilliant foliage, and there are other attractions, as well, including the Bonneville Dam, which has a fascinating salmon fish hatchery.

The waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge are gorgeous.

Aspen, Colorado

The unique gold and burgundy of fall aspens in Aspen turn this into a rewarding drive from mid-September to mid-October. The famous Maroon Bells – the two peaks in the Elk Mountains that are among the most photographed peaks in the world – offer a scenic counterpoint to the dramatic display, and Independence Pass, on Colorado 82 between Twin Lakes and Aspen, is a virtual explosion of color the whole way. And because this is technically the “mud season” in the town, there are usually good deals to be had on dining and shopping.

Various spots in Vermont

The sheer variety of trees in the state –oak, hickory, birch, dogwood and, of course, maple – makes it a terrific choice for a trek through any part of it, although those in the know tend to point toward Glover, Manchester, New Haven, Burlington and Bennington, and anything, really, around Lake Champlain. The colors range from russet to the many shades of wine, and serious leaf-peepers tend to wax nostalgic about their favorites and where to find them.

The Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

With more than 100 types of trees, the Poconos are PA’s best bet for a visual vacation this time of year, starting the second week of September and going through late October. The area stretches for more than 2,000 miles and three zones, and so different sections change at different times, which means that you can spend several weeks and still not see it all. Miles of hiking trails offer a great way to get out and see the leaves up close, so don’t forget the camera!

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

The Porcupines and Ottawa National Forest are famous for their colors, with deep reds and vibrant yellows being the most talked-about hues from the abundant maples and oaks. As the season progresses, frost sets in, which gives the landscape a unique look, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for moose in this neck of the woods. Also consider the scenic tour of Keweenaw Peninsula, from Twin Lakes to Copper Harbor, which includes a stop at the lovely Lake Roland, rimmed by trees that turn a magnificent rust and burgundy.

The roadtripster is the handle of a longtime Coloradan who travels the country by any means possible, sometimes in an RV, sometimes car camping or in the backcountry, with kids and without.