Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or an outdoor adventure for the whole family, choosing the perfect destination can make or break your holiday. From hiking in the fall foliage to wining and dining with a world-class view, our list of the top nine weekend getaways has something for everyone. Now it’s up to you to choose and let us know which one is the best!
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Pack your hiking boots for your trip to Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park offers some of the most beautiful fall trails in the midwest. Enjoy a guided nature hike or download the Hocking Hills app for a detailed guide through the park’s trails – as well as driving directions and news about daily events. As you ramble along the six-mile Grandma Gatewood Trail you will see the glistening waterfalls of Old Man’s Cave, the secluded chasm of Cedar Falls, and the enormous Ash Cave. Then, get a good look at the tree-tops on the zipline canopy tour.
Bend, Oregon
Dip your paddle and whet your whistle along the Deschutes River in beautiful Bend, Oregon. The river is a perfect spot for canoeing, kayaking, and white water rafting while the Bend ale trail will quench your thirst for adventure. Come at the beginning of the month and stick around for the First Friday Art Walk (on the first Friday of each month) where the city celebrates its thriving art scene with performances, live music, shopping, and local food.
Yosemite National Park, California
The 1,200 square miles of Yosemite National Park is best known for its majestic waterfalls but the park also features sweeping valleys, meadows, and groves of giant sequoias. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the grandiose Californian nature. This national park makes a great end-of-summer camping spot but be sure to click here and make your entrance and campground reservations ahead of time.
Jeffersonville, Vermont
Whether you prefer to admire the autumn foliage from horseback or on a sailboat cruise, Jeffersonville offers some of New England’s finest fall scenery. Explore the hiking trails and enjoy live music at Smuggler’s Notch Resort. Near the end of September, you can sample the fresh cider and baked goods at the resort’s annual Applefest. What better way is there to savor the flavors of the season?
Zion National Park, Utah
Outdoor Enthusiasts flock to Zion National Park every fall to enjoy canyoneering and rock climbing in the narrow slot canyons and along the massive sandstone cliffs. Enjoy a day-long hike around one of the park’s scenic trails or apply for a permit to spend a secluded night camping under the stars. The park has “Dark Sky” status, meaning that it is one of the best places in the country to see the stars and Milky Way on a clear night.
Niagara Falls, New York
The infamous Niagara Falls is a breath-taking weekend destination, doubly so in the fall when the stunning foliage brings the scenery to life. From the American side of the border, you can enjoy a ferry boat tour on the Maid of the Mist, snap a close-up of Bridal Veil Falls from the Cave of the Winds, or get the best view in town aboard a Rainbow Air, Inc. Helicopter tour. For family-friendly fun, stop by Fall Fun On The Farm; while the adults sway to live music in the beer garden, children can check out the corn maze, goat races, and more.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Our top spot for hiking and camping this autumn, Glacier National Park boasts more than 700 miles of trails to explore. Although there are enough day-hikes to keep even the most avid hikers busy, we suggest signing up for a wilderness camping permit and backpacking through the stunning mountainside. If you want to make the most of your trip, sign up for one of the guided hiking, rafting, or horse-back trips for the adventure of your life.
Asheville, North Carolina
The rich colors of autumn give life to the Blue Ridge Mountains and make Asheville one of the most beautiful areas of the Southeast. Cruise along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and stroll through the Biltmore Estate to soak up the sights and sounds of the season. Head over to nearby Marion for the annual WNC Bigfoot Festival to enjoy a day full of wacky family fun, and don’t miss the live music at the French Broad River Festival on the first weekend of October.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
If you’re looking to spice things up this fall, Albuquerque is a great place to start. Sample the fiery New Mexico cuisine with the fresh harvest of locally roasted green chilies and take a wild ride over the city in a hot air balloon. The annual Albuquerque international balloon fiesta is renowned as one of the biggest and best hot air balloons festivals in the world. The nine-day festival fills the October sky with colorful balloons, and you are welcome to join them on an unforgettable sunset balloon ride.
Read More:
Top 9 Reasons To Visit Asheville, North Carolina
8 Places For Nature Lovers To Explore In Montana
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