Best Fall Foliage in the West

The autumnal equinox or fall as most know it is less than 2 weeks away. Fall is my favorite time of year. The Vegas heat is slowly fading as we head into the holiday season: Halloween, Thanksgiving and everyone's favorite ... Christmas. During this time, deciduous forests are experiencing beautiful changes. Their colors are on dramatic display throughout the country. Like a painters pallet, brilliant reds, oranges, yellows, and purples blend into the landscape making for a spectacular display of colors. The northeastern United States is already experiencing this transition, however, the western part of the country still has some time for you to plan a trip. Here are 5 of my favorite fall foliage destinations out west:

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Flagstaff, Arizona or "Flag" as it's known by locals, is the gem of Arizona's fall foliage. The dormant volcano, Mt. Humphreys, sits as its backdrop, making for a picturesque scene. Travel just north of town into the Coconino National Forest and take the 2-mile hike from Lockett Meadow. In 2 weeks, the aspen forests will be glowing against the dark backdrop of the San Francisco Range peaks. This is the best time of year to hike, the sky is clear and the air is crisp. Flagstaff has done a great job of renovation ... especially downtown. You will find many dining and shopping options. Stop in the historic Hotel Monte Vistas lounge for a nightcap.

Bishop, California is located on Highway 395 north of Los Angeles. Use this town as a base for exploring the beautiful autumn scenery, numerous hot springs, and Mt. Whitney, once the tallest mountain (before we acquired Alaska) in the U.S. The trek between Bishop and Bridgeport is about 100 miles. Deciduous groves along the route will afford you some great photo ops. Unlike the western slopes of the Sierra Mountains which are gradually sloped, the eastern side rises from the valley making for a picturesque backdrop. South of Bishop is Mono Lake. It is the heart of a geographical feature known as a supervolcano which creates numerous hot springs throughout the region. Visit Travertine Hot Springs near Bishop for a relaxing 105-degree soak.

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Aspen, Colorado is located in one of the Rocky Mountains most pristine valleys. Nearby you'll find three symmetrically shaped peaks known as the Maroon Bells. They are usually still dusted with snow during the fall. Start your foliage hike at shimmering Maroon Lake ($10.00 per vehicle). On a perfect day, you can catch the Maroon Bells reflection on the lake before starting your hike. Another unique way to enjoy the colors is by bike. Book your tour in Aspen. Guides will take you and your bike in their vehicles and drive you up to the lake. The keyword here is up. Once at the lake your venture back to Aspen is mostly downhill. Upon your return to Aspen, you will have many restaurant options. The 520 Grill was our choice for great casual dining. Scrumptious pub-like food with a hospitable staff. To my disappointment, it was here that I found out Dumb & Dumber wasn't filmed in Aspen but in Breckenridge, Colorado. Honestly, it was one of the reasons we visited Aspen.

California's Napa Valley is majestic during the fall. The leaves are turning, and the vintners are scampering to harvest their grapes at the optimum time. Napa Valley is home to some of the greatest wines in the world. You have three fun ways to experience the region. A bike path has recently been created and extends the length of the valley. The path is wide, easily navigated, and links many of the wineries. If you choose to travel by car take the Silverado Trail. It winds along the eastern side of the valley and is far less crowded than route 29. For the train buffs, book the Napa Valley Wine Train. Great scenery, an impeccable meal, and of course wine are included with your fare. You'll find tremendous dining options in Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga.

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Spearfish Canyon in South Dakota is beautiful year-round. The fall colors make this season stand out more than any other. The canyon is about 20 miles long. Drive at your own pace and take the opportunity to stop at one of the many pullouts along the route. Hike into the forest and explore the paths. Hopefully, you'll come across one of the pristine waterfalls located along the creek. The canyon contains many species of wildlife: mule deer, raccoons, porcupines, and numerous bird species that call the canyon home. The area was once home to many Native American tribes. Known for making jewelry, their crafts are on display and available for purchase in the neighboring towns of Spearfish and Deadwood where you also have many dining options.

There are so many more options for fall foliage lovers. Great colorful locations can also be found in the Columbia River Gorge in Washington, the Willamette Valley in Oregon, and even in Nevada, the state known for its deserts, you'll find Marlette Lake south of Reno. The peak times are approaching fast so book your trip. I would love to hear your thoughts on any other western spots to enjoy this autumn. As usual, I am posting some great food demos this week on geocheftreks.com. Enjoy your September.