Whew! We’re finally past summer and fall travel is kicking in again. At ScholarTrip, we are especially excited for the smaller crowds, cheaper flights, and lower temps! Airfare will be slowly dropping this season, so it’s time to squeeze in an amazing weekend (or week-long… don’t worry, we won’t snitch to your professors) trip! Check out these fall travel trends and top places to go.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
We’re starting this list with the most iconic place to see some dramatic fall foliage. Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is an outdoor and adventure lover’s heaven. The Catawba Falls trail is located about 25 minutes out of the city and features a two mile hike to a 100 foot waterfall. Pisgah National Forest is also just North and South of Downtown Asheville and contains some of the best hiking trails, as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway. This route is an amazing scenic drive featuring waterfalls, overlooks, and trails. While you’re here, don’t forget to also check out the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home. Additionally, you will be sure to enjoy the downtown area with its numerous breweries, fall festivals, and arts district.
2. Bermuda
Located just two hours from the coast of New York, Bermuda feels like a tropical destination many miles away than it is. Its iconic pink sand beaches, bright blue water, and warm temperatures lure visitors to the island year round. Even in the fall, you can find endless adventures here from boating and swimming to scuba excursions and horseback riding. Locals wait for September 1st to arrive because it marks the return of the spiny lobster season which you can enjoy in restaurants across the island until March!
3. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s top attractions are even more enjoyable with the cooler weather fall brings. If you’re into hiking and picturesque views, check out Devil’s Bridge Trail and Cathedral Rock. To walk alongside vibrant fall colors, the West Fork Of Oak Creek is an easy stroll with views of rippling water and wide canyons. This area can also be experienced through a scenic drive on Highway 89A north that offers spectacular views of fall foliage all around you.
4. Kauai, Hawaii
This one might feel like a stretch to all you college students, but if you get the chance to see Kauai during the fall, take it! Early fall is one of the best times to visit Kauai because of fewer crowds, and as a result of that, lower prices. The temperature also is pleasantly warm, and in September and October, you’ll miss the rainy season that comes during November. The mountain coasts, waterfalls (Hanakapiai Falls), secluded beaches, and red rock canyons leave plenty to make a fun-filled yet relaxing vacation.
5. Zion National Park
If you’re a serious hiker, the cooler temperatures and smaller crowds in the fall at Zion will be a big win for you. Zion National Park is already one of the most stunning parks in the United States, so adding in the autumn colors makes it indescribable. The red, orange, and yellow cottonwoods and red and white cliffs make for gorgeous views and pictures. You can embark on a scenic drive or consider biking through the park.
6. Pocono Mountains
In the northeastern nook of Pennsylvania, you can find another lush, scenic, green haven, the Pocono Mountains. You can enjoy your time in nature surrounded by a peaceful environment of serene lakes and tall waterfalls. Hiking, fishing, biking, and canoeing are all popular endeavors here.
7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a charming town serving as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a hometown feel while visiting the park just five minutes away. Within Gatlinburg, you can take a skylift up the mountain to see overlooking views of the town or soak in the local dining and shopping experience. The Great Smoky Mountains are full of roaming wildlife, panoramic views, lush greenery, and streams of water. There is plenty to do including relaxing strolls, strenuous hikes, or scenic drives. The autumn views will be amazing, so this is the perfect vacation spot this fall.
8. Aspen, Colorado
One of the best times to visit Aspen is during the fall. The fall foliage contrasted against snow capped mountains and clear blue skies is truly a sight to be seen. Cooler temperatures and diminishing crowds also makes for a more pleasant experience. Our favorites things to do include catching a snowmass gondola and chairlift ride to the summit for panoramic views, seeing iconic peaks and mirror lakes in Maroon Bells, and driving along Castle Creek Road.