Fall Roadtrip

Sep. 13, 2013 | Written by: Lori

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. The smell and crispness of the air is wonderful. I love going apple picking with my family and enjoying fresh, warm cinnamon sugar donuts and apple cider. And of course, the fall foliage in Michigan is spectacular. If you are looking for one last escape before the cold sets in, here are a few road trips that will showcase Michigan’s fall beauty.

All of those willing to drive to Michigan’s northern most point on the Keweenaw Peninsula will love viewing the beautiful trees that will burst into color beginning mid-September to early October. A nice route to take is the Brockway Mountain Drive located in Copper Harbor. This is a 9½ mile route with amazing views of Lake Superior. According to Michigan.org “it is the highest above sea-level drive between the Rockies and Alleghenies.” It is also an official Michigan Wildlife Viewing Area.

A little further south in the Traverse City area you can fly high in a hot air balloon and have panoramic views like no other. Imagine how beautiful it will be when the colors are at their peak! Or, if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, or at least closer to it, rent a canoe in the Grayling area and paddle along the Au Sable River. Float in peace and quiet for miles below the tall pines splashed with colorful trees that line the river banks. The viewing is best in these areas from late September to mid-October.

For all the home bodies who prefer not to travel too far, pack a picnic lunch and view fall’s splendor from the seat of your bike. In addition to state parks and recreation areas, there are many biking trails to choose from that would provide a beautiful ride. For example the Paint Creek Trail is 8.9 miles and runs through Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Twp., and the Village of Lake Orion. It was the first Rail-to-Trail in Michigan when it was purchased from the former Penn Central Railroad in 1983. A bonus along this trail is the Paint Creek Cider Mill (where you can get donuts and apple cider!).

Hopefully we’ll all be able to get outside this fall, away from all of our electronic gadgets, and reconnect with the beauty of nature. Even if you’re only heading outside to rake the leaves or maybe gathering with friends to enjoy a fall bonfire, soak it in. Winter’s coming!

P.S. Michigan.org has compiled some colorful road trips if you able to get away for a day or two. For more information go to http://www.michigan.org/fall-color-tours .

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