This story was originally published in September 2023.
This time of year, I’m on the lookout for great spots to return to when fall foliage is at its peak. The leaves are already starting to change, especially along roadways and wetlands, where conditions cause trees to transition early. Red, yellow and orange are bleeding into the leaves, often starting at the tops of trees and working downward.
For the best fall foliage hikes, I look for woods that are filled with a variety of deciduous trees: oaks, birches, ashes, aspens and maples. It’s a magical experience to follow a trail under a colorful canopy, with freshly fallen leaves carpeting the forest floor.
I also look for hikes that lead to open views, places where I can experience the fall foliage from afar, as a vibrant quilt draped