Alternative Places to See Fall Color in SW USA

Visit South West US Autumn Foliage Displays Instead of New England

Sep 17, 2009

Although New England is known for spectacular Fall foliage displays, there are many alternative places to visit in the American South West to see Fall color changing.

The Northeastern part of the United States and Canada, in particular New England and Vermont, receives thousands of visitors each Fall to view the Autumn foliage; however, there are some surprising alternative places to see the change in Fall color. Many of the national forests and state parks in the South West have Autumn foliage 'hot spots' which provide stunning displays of Fall color each year and are located in states which are not traditionally associated with Fall color.

Fall Color in Arizona

Arizona is often categorized as hot, dry desert with a greater opportunity of seeing cacti than Fall color; however, in Coconino National Forest, located in the northern part of the state of Arizona, it is possible to see Fall colors from as early as mid-September. Route 89A from Flagstaff to Sedona winds through the scenic Oak Creek Canyon where Autumn foliage can often be spectacular.

There are many other local scenic drives and trails in the area which take in the best of the Fall color, including those north of Flagstaff and up towards the Grand Canyon; in Coconino National Forest, Fall foliage displays of red, yellow and gold include Aspens, Maples and Oaks.

Fall Color in California

Again, California is more commonly known for its sunshine and beaches than Autumn foliage. However, California is a vast state and includes Yosemite National Park, where Fall color displays can be found; various species of the oak tree allows for many changing Fall colors. In addition, there is a myriad of canyons, valleys and forests in California, including Inyo National Forest, where it is possible to see Fall color displays.

Fall Color in New Mexico

New Mexico is another large state which produces Fall color displays in five national forests, one of which is Carson National Forest. The changing Fall colors of Aspen trees in Carson National Forest can be viewed from the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad train, from the car on US Highway 64 or the Enchanted Circle loop drive or on foot.

National Forest Foliage Displays in the South West

Fall color changes from year to year and it is best to find out the status of Fall color displays before visiting an area; contact the local National Forest Service or check out details with the local Chamber of Commerce. A visit to places in the South Western United States to see Fall color may provide some memorable Autumn displays of foliage; in addition, it is likely to be less crowded than popular Northeastern places such as New England and Vermont!

The copyright of the article Alternative Places to See Fall Color in SW USA in Vacations & Leisure is owned by Sharon Falsetto. Permission to republish Alternative Places to See Fall Color in SW USA in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.