The scent of pumpkin spice is in the air, apple orchards are brimming with activity and vibrant, crisp leaves are blanketing the horizon. Autumn is upon us, and with it comes a perfect opportunity to view fall foliage across the U.S.
From the Catskill Mountains in New York to Wisconsin Dells—and countless places in between—there are stunning locations nationwide to enjoy the fall scenery. We’ve compiled some of the most popular areas for viewing the changing fall leaves, all within a reasonable drive to an IHG® Army Hotels location.
As each state experiences this enchanting time of year, you can note the best time to visit and view fiery Maples, golden Ginkgos, orange Oaks and much more.
Catskill Mountains, New York
When to go: Late September–Mid-October
Closest to: West Point; IHG Army Hotels Building 109 and Beat Navy House, a Historia Collection™ hotel (1 hour, 10 minutes)
From the lush greens of summer to the multi-colored masterpiece of fall, the Catskill Mountains put on a stunning show by late September. The landscape is an event in itself, as you choose to hike or drive through the show of colors.
The Catskills encompass 700,000 acres of forest preserve in New York, so there are many places to take in the view. We recommend Walnut Mountain Park in Liberty, N.Y., which includes 13 miles of trails for hiking or biking. On foot, try the moderate Mountain Loop for a 2-mile hike, or take your bike on 9 miles of trail.
For a relaxing ride through the mountains, head about 45 minutes north and hop on the Delaware and Ulster Railroad. This two-hour trip on a 1940s streamliner offers panoramic views of the mountains, farmlands, trout streams and more.
Brooklyn and Queens, New York
When to go: Late September–Mid-October
Closest to: Fort Hamilton; Holiday Inn Express® Building 107, an IHG Army Hotel (35 minutes)
Sure, Brooklyn is known for skyscrapers, New York-style pizza and Coney Island. But did you know it puts on a pretty stunning display of nature come fall? The sensibly planned parks provide picturesque Maples, Oaks, Sweet Gums and Ginkgos bursting with a warm palette of color around walking paths and scenic ponds.
Take in the view from one of the highest points in Brooklyn at Prospect Park. This 526-acre destination includes manmade wetlands, a zoo, an ice rink, a carousel, recreational facilities, and some of the areas remaining indigenous trees. Start at Peninsula and head to Lookout Hill, where you’ll absorb a kaleidoscope of colors surrounding the lake.
Or immerse yourself in the borough’s largest continuous Oak forest while strolling through Forest Park. Located in Queens, this park features several walking trails, a century-old pine grove, historic sites and “The Overlook,” which shares a sweeping view of the park.
Massapequa Preserve, New York
When to go: Late October–Early November
Closest to: Fort Hamilton; Holiday Inn Express Building 107, an IHG Army Hotel (35 minutes)
West Point; IHG Army Hotels Building 109 and Beat Navy House, a Historia Collection hotel (1 hour, 10 minutes)
Maybe you’ve noticed— New York offers some stunning sites to experience autumn. Next on the list is the Peter J. Schmitt Massapequa Preserve, a 432-acre park on Long Island with biking and hiking trails, fishing, nature walks and wildlife.
This attractive park is a perfect getaway from the noise and distractions of the suburbs. Visitors say every season is a pleasure, offering surprises of what you might see with local wildlife and foliage. The three lakes are particularly popular—each is filled with fish, turtles and waterfowl.
Eastern Shore, Maryland
When to go: Mid- to Late-October
Closest to: Fort Meade; Candlewood Suites®, an IHG Army Hotel (20 minutes)
Along the 100 miles of shoreline in eastern Maryland, visitors can discover everything from ocean resorts to forests to historic towns to farmland. This more rural stretch of the state produces perfect spots to explore the changing fall colors around the Chesapeake Bay.
Although there are many places to visit, one of our favorite areas is Tuckahoe State Park (about one hour from Fort Meade). Choose from 20 miles of trails, where you can view the blazing red, orange and yellow scene while hiking, biking or riding horseback. The picturesque 60-acre lake offers a different perspective while you boat or fish. Tuckahoe also has playground and picnic areas.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
When to go: Early to Mid-October
Closest to: West Point; IHG Army Hotels Building 109 and Beat Navy House, a Historia Collection hotel (1 hour, 30 minutes)
A respite for suburbanites and city dwellers, the Pocono Mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania is within a two-hour drive from many metropolitan areas.
Within the Poconos is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a vista of fiery reds and golden yellows in the fall surrounding the Delaware River that runs between the mountains. Along the 40 miles of free-flowing river, enjoy the tranquility of lush forests, stunning cliff views and mighty waterfalls. The three-tiered Raymondskill Falls—the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania—has two viewing platforms. Stroll along a boardwalk trail to Silverthread Falls, then further to the impressive 130-foot Dingmans Falls. And the popular Bushkill Falls—known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania”—comprises eight waterfalls over two miles of trails. After this challenging and stunning hike, treat yourself to ice cream and mini golf.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
When to go: Mid-October
Closest to: Fort McCoy; IHG Army Hotels Anderson Hall (1 hour)
Located on the southern side of the state along the Wisconsin River is Wisconsin Dells, boasting everything from amusement parks to entertainment centers to a forested reserve.
Of course, we’re here for the fall foliage, so we suggest Devil’s Lake State Park. This 10,000-acre area draws more than 3 million visitors a year. Check out the popular East Bluff Trail, a three- to four-hour hike with breathtaking overlooks along the way.
Nearby Mirror Lake State Park showcases sandstone bluffs halfway around the lake. Get a glimpse at Mother Nature’s artwork from the bluff, or look up while canoeing, kayaking or fishing from the lake.
For a broader view of the beautiful fall scene from the water, try a river tour on Dells Boat Tours. A variety of times and types of excursions allow you to choose what sights to see. We recommend an early morning or sunset cruise for the most unique lighting of the autumn’s display.
Whatever direction you head on your fall foliage tour, an IHG Army Hotels hotel is nearby with the comforts of home. After a long and rewarding day on the lake or up the mountain trails, know that our team is here to serve you. Happy leaf peaking!
