Group Planner: Fall Foliage Tours

We realize that the temperatures continue to be sweltering, but the calendar does say that we’re nearing Fall. While September might not be enough to convince you, perhaps the re-emergence of gridiron rivalries and Sam Adams’ Octoberfest may help in turning your thoughts to one of our finest driving seasons.

The best part is the spectacular changing of the colors isn’t confined to just New England. You and your group travelers can see the fall leaves from coast-to-coast. Let’s take a look at the peak predictions or places to see the show:

New England/Eastern U.S.:

Peak in Maine will be towards the end of September with peak periods continuing through early November as you move down the East Coast. New York and Boston are looking on track for a mid-October peak with a late arrival for Washington, D.C. and Virginia, including the Shenandoahs.

Southeast:

For color in these parts it’s best to head to the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. Peak appears to be late September/early October, so be sure to schedule around football weekends.

Midwest:

According to Midwest Living, good fall foliage spots in the Midwest include Brown County, Ind.; Cuyahoga Valley National Park outside Cleveland, Ohio; the Mackinac region of Michigan; the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway; Door County, Wisc.; the Ozarks in Arkansas; and Minnesota’s Lake Superior shore.

Rocky Mountains:

The crown jewel for the Rockies is the turning of the aspens, which happens in late September in Northern Colorado. The central part of the state gets the show in early October, followed by early to mid-month for the rest of the state and New Mexico.

West Coast:

Turns out the top spots on the West Coast also happen to be great wine spots. Try the Sierra and Sonoma Valley in California; the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon/Washington; North Cascades National Park and Mount Ranier.

Once you set your path, figure out what your group travel needs are for your journey. Is it a large group? Then, maybe a deluxe motor coach is the way to go. Maybe you have a smaller group or want a more intimate experience? Then, a mini-bus might suit your needs.

Learn more about your charter bus options here, and find your provider here. No matter what your group size… get your group travel plans together… click on BusRates.com… and hit the road this Fall!