Wednesday, September 25, 2013

12 Ways to Enjoy Fall Foliage Across U.S.

Along with cooler temperatures and blustery winds comes the great American fall pastime of leaf peeping. Luxury hotels across America are offering unique perspectives for taking in the changing landscape -from zip-lining above the vibrant trees to enjoying the colorful autumn backdrop from a kayak.

Zipline Above the Fall Landscape at Omni Mount Washington Resort, NH
Take in the scenery from above the trees at the Omni Mount Washington Resort. Become engulfed in the area's colorful landscape as you soar hundreds of feet through the air past the tops of ancient hemlocks, spruces and white pine trees on the resort's Bretton Woods Canopy Tour. Guests can combine the adrenaline rush of a zip line with the beauty of New Hampshire's gorgeous foliage while on the 4,700-foot tour. As New Hampshire's longest zip line, the unique excursion is comprised of nine zip lines, two suspension bridges, hiking and even rappelling deep into the forests of Bretton Woods. Rates start at $229 per night.

Scenic Segway Trails at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Bedford, PA, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort and Spa is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of autumn with tree-lined trails, campfires and more.  Head to the resort via the Pennsylvania Turnpike and take in dramatic vistas as you drive through various valleys and mountain passes. While in Bedford, take in the local stops including the county's famous covered bridges. This year the resort is offering a unique way to view the change in season with new Segway trails.  The off-road Segways allow guests to enjoy scenic stop overs at Red Oak Lake and Naugle's Mill, which offer the perfect picture opportunity. Rates start at $299 per night. 

Cruise Carter's Creek at the Tides Inn, VA
Guests at the Tides Inn in Irvington, VA, can cruise Carter's Creek and witness the tree-lined banks that turn red and gold in the fall season with the resort's new partnership with local Norton Yachts. For those looking to stay close to the resort and still witness the stunning fall foliage, venture out in the creek with a paddle boat to see the leaves changing to deep reds and oranges. Rates start at $215 per night.

Fly Fish While you Leaf Peep at Omni Homestead Resort, VA
Enjoy an authentic Southern fall by surveying the famous Virginian foliage while fly fishing in the gorges at the historic Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia.  Situated between the mountain ridges of Virginia and West Virginia, the mountain retreat is one of the most spectacular fall settings, offering 2,000 acres of fun in the Virginia countryside. Take in the area's warm tones as you hike down to the gorge, a wonderful place to leaf peep and immerse yourself in one of fall's most sought-after locales. Rates start at $180 per night.

Kayak on Kiawah Island, SC
Enjoy Kiawah Island's magnificent foliage displays while kayaking through the creeks of the marsh.  Located just 21 miles south of Charleston, South Carolina, the island is a hidden gem with breathtaking views of beaches and marsh land.  During the fall, the marsh grasses change dramatically from the summer shades of soft greens to deep hues of amber and violet. While adventuring through the creeks, guests can also enjoy bird watching and a chance to spot bottle nose dolphins. Kiawah Island is a year-round destination with recreational activities for everyone to enjoy.

Sea Foliage at Chebeague Island Inn, ME
There is no better place to enjoy all of Autumn's glory than on the coast of Maine at Chebeague Island Inn. With the “Sea Foliage” package, guests can admire the fall foliage while touring the islands of Casco Bay with Captain Bryan Smith.  The “Sea Foliage” package includes: Two nights luxury lodging in a double occupancy room; gourmet breakfast daily; afternoon tea and house-made pastries daily; a two-hour cruise around the islands of Casco Bay; local & seasonal beers in room on arrival; House-made whoopie pies; Complimentary postcards to send to friends and family. Sea Foliage package begins at $377 per night (based on double occupancy, with a two-night minimum).

Paint the Landscape at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa, NM
Tucked in Northern New Mexico between the desert and the Santa Fe National Forest, many fail to think of Santa Fe for a colorful fall weekend escape. To make the most of the season, head to La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa where your adobe casita complete with a viga fireplace will be your home base. Take in the lush garden and changing apricot trees, along with painter Kathleen Frank’s various landscapes adorning the walls throughout the resort. Pack an easel, blank canvases, paint and brushes and head to the Pecos Wilderness, the southernmost extension of the Rocky Mountains, to paint the changing colors and golden hues of the Aspen trees. Book the “Savor Santa Fe Bed & Breakfast” package to enjoy a Fireplace King Room and a delicious southwestern breakfast on the resort’s patio. Package rates start at $369 per night, based on double occupancy.

Adventure Through the Great Outdoors at Hotel Madeline Telluride, CO
This fall, experience leaf-peeping from approximately 9,500 feet above sea level with Hotel Madeline Telluride in Telluride, Colorado. As the summer festival season comes to a close with the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival September 14-16, 2012, enjoy a mountain-biking adventure through forests full of sun-gold Aspens and blonde meadows. Hotel Madeline’s prime location in Mountain Village offers unobstructed views of 14,000 foot peaks, immediate access to the best trails, and an “Adventure Valet” to arrange your bike rental and any tours. Book this luxury hotel’s “Experience the Great Outdoors” package to receive a half-day 15-mile Mountain Bike Tour and skill building clinic, along with a half-day Fly Fishing expedition along San Miguel river, and a 50 dollar resort credit. Package rates start at $299 per night, based on double occupancy.

Charter a Boat and Take In the California Fall at Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa
For Southern California residents seeking a fall foliage getaway close to home, head to Lake Arrowhead—a pristine private lake nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, a 1.5 hour drive from downtown Los Angeles. Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa is the only resort that offers visitors lake access. Chartered boat tours will take you around the lake to view the beautiful, celebrity-owned mansions, along with the gold and red shades of the surrounding pacific dogwood and California black oak trees. The boat can also be used for private fishing excursions and picnics on the lake. End the day with board games and s’mores by the fireplace in the renovated resort’s alpine-themed lobby, or viewing the orange-hued sunset from the perch of your room’s balcony. Room rates start at $240 per night for as king room.

Cycling and Cocktails at Hotel Vermont
The recently opened and eco-friendly Hotel Vermont is the first independent hotel to join the quaint town of Burlington and will celebrate the famous Vermont maples at their peak foliage with seasonal cocktails blending local flavors like Vermont Gold Vodka, Maple Sapling, Apple Cider, White Wine, and Cinnamon, to give guests a "taste" of Vermont in October. Enjoy the stunning views of red and orange leaves dancing in the wind from the 7,500 square foot outdoor terrace with open fire pit overlooking the scenery of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Those that want a closer look at the leaves can ride through the action on complimentary bike rentals from Old Spokes Home, a local alternative bike shop. Rates start at $229 per night.

Take in Fall and History at XV Beacon, Boston
The luxurious XV Beacon located in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston offers guests a bird's eye view of the famed New England fall foliage from their rooftop deck overlooking historic architecture and the famous Charles River. Hop on a swan ferry at Boston Common public park or hike the Freedom Trail to take in the scenery in action. End your trip at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace to taste the season with freshly harvested apples and a warm cup of cider. Experience Boston in its entire splendor with the Fall into Fifteen package available September 22 through December 21. Rates start at $400 per night.

Sip a Sunset Cocktail Amid Fall Scenery at the Omni Grove Park Inn, NC
This fall, The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC, invites guests to view beautiful fall foliage from its new Sunset Cocktail Terrace. Asheville is an ideal destination for leaf peeping, and the outdoor terrace offers guests a chance to observe the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains dressed in hues of orange, red and yellow, in a relaxed environment. While admiring the stunning fall scenery, guests can sip on a Grove Park Inn Centennial Cocktail and indulge in food from the terrace’s small plates menu. A premier destination for those seeking solitude and serenity, the acclaimed The Grove Park Inn has maintained its status as a luxury retreat since opening its doors in 1913.

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