As the leaves change, many Americans plan road trips to areas decorated with fall foliage, but views from a boat provide nature enthusiasts with a different type of scenic “drive” this season. Boaters know the best place to view autumn’s changing colors is from the helm, but non-boaters may be surprised to learn they too can avoid the crowds and put a twist on the standard family outing. Fall foliage cruises across the country offer views of picturesque waterways and shoreline panoramas blanketed with seasonal colors.
“There’s something about taking in vibrant fall foliage against the sparkle of the open water that can’t be beat,” said Ellen Hopkins, spokesperson for Discover Boating, the recreational boating industry’s national awareness program. “Since more than 90 percent of Americans live within an hour’s drive of water, it’s also more accessible than you think. We have highlighted a few of our favorite scenic waterways that provide prime opportunities, for boat owners and non-owners alike, to enjoy all the season has to offer from the water.”
Discover Boating surveyed a network of boating experts and people who love life on the water to compile the following list of top locales, many of which offer cruising, rental and charter options, to view fall colors from a boat:
Tennessee River Gorge, Tenn.: Known as Tennessee’s ‘Grand Canyon’, this natural treasure is carved into the Cumberland Mountains by more than 25 miles of the Tennessee River. While out on the water, in addition to the brilliant colors of the changing season, keep an eye out for wildlife that call the Tennessee River Gorge home, including bald eagles, ospreys, blue herons, belted kingfishers and wild turkeys.
Peak Season: Mid-October – Early November
More Information: target="_blank">http://fall.tnvacation.com/fall-color/weekly-foilage-reports/
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Brainerd Lakes, Minn.: Gull, Pelican and Cross lakes, as well as Whitefish Chain of Lakes, comprise the Brainerd Lakes region. In the heart of the land of 10,000 lakes, maple, oak, birch and aspen trees line the shoreline for an idyllic display of fall colors. Those drawn to the area for fishing and boating know it’s the on-the-water spot to watch the seasons change.
Peak Season: Mid-September – Early October
More Information: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fall_colors/index.html
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Columbia River Gorge, Ore.: Running through the Cascade Mountains and along the Oregon border, the Columbia River is lined with fir, pine, maple, cottonwood and ash trees vibrant with rich reds, orange and yellow. Explore the river’s picturesque shoreline and waterfalls, including the magnificent 620-foot Multnomah Falls.
Peak Season: Late September – Late October
More Information: www.oregonfallfoliage.wordpress.com/
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Door County, Wisc.: Situated on a peninsula on Lake Michigan, Door County is often referred to as the “New England of the Midwest.” The autumn months are ideal to drop anchor to discover quiet small towns and delicious local treats, including cheese, apples, cherries, maple syrup and the classic Wisconsin fish boil.
Peak Season: Late September – Late October
More Information: www.travelwisconsin.com/fallcolor_report.aspx
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Hudson River, N.Y.: With more than 200 miles of tree-lined shoreline stretching from Manhattan to Albany, boaters cherish unmatched views of historic towns and attractions along the Hudson River, including George Washington’s headquarters, West Point Military Academy, and the Statue of Liberty.
Peak Season: Early September – Early November
More Information: fallgetaways.iloveny.com/foliage_report.html
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Lake Champlain, N.Y. and Vt.: During the fall, people flock to New England for its charming small towns and vibrant colors. Lake Champlain, a popular destination bordered by New York and Vermont, offers local flavor with sweeping beauty of the Adirondack and Green Mountains as its backdrop.
Peak Season: Late September – Mid-October
More Information: http://www.vtonly.com/foliage.htm
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Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. and Ark.: A favorite vacation spot for families, Lake of the Ozarks offers late-season opportunities for viewing fall colors due to its milder temperatures. The area boasts nearly 2,000 miles of idyllic shoreline featuring blackgum, hickory, sweetgum, red maple, dogwood and buckeye trees.
Peak Season: Mid-October – Mid-November
More information: www.mdc.mo.gov/nathis/seasons/fall/
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Mammoth Lakes, Calif.: On the eastern side of the Sierra Nevadas on California’s western edge sits the Mammoth Lakes area, which offers some of the best spots to take in nature’s fall beauty. Mountains and canyons give way to numerous lakes where one can rent a boat or bring their own to take in the splendor of the season on these pristine waters.
Peak Season: Mid-September – Mid-October
More Information: www.visitmammoth.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=699
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Saugatuck, Mich.: It’s no wonder Michigan is popular with those looking to escape to the water, with more than 11,000 inland lakes and 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, it’s a boater’s paradise. The state’s southwest coast, situated on Lake Michigan, includes the quaint artist’s haven of Saugatuck, which offers spectacular views of trees, dunes and Lake Michigan sunsets from the water, creating an ideal spot to take in the wonders of the fall season.
Peak Season: Throughout October
More Information: www.michigan.org/Topics/Fall/Default.aspx
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Shenandoah River, W.V.: A tributary of the Potomac, the river runs 150 miles north-to-south through spectacular mountainous regions and the popular Luray Caverns. Boating on the Shenandoah River is a unique way to take in surrounding colorful views of the Appalachian, Blue Ridge and Massanutten Mountains.
Peak Season: Mid-October – Mid-November
More Information: www.virginia.org/fall/
As the days get shorter, consider getting out on the water to enjoy nature’s vibrant fall colors before winter arrives. DiscoverBoating.com can help boat owners plan their next on-the-water adventure and show novices how to get started in boating.