Did you know that with a very short drive you can see spectacular Autumn colors? Generally the leaves begin to change in mid-September to almost December, so now is the time to plan a trip!
Where you ask?
Here are my top 3 favorites;
- Flagstaff; The best views are on the trails near San Francisco Peaks. The vivid autumn colors pave the drive up to Snowbowl. The Aspens are incredible. A photo just doesn’t do it justice. Take U.S, 180 for 7 miles north of Flagstaff and turn right on Snowbowl Road. Check out this website to help plan your trip at the perfect time (there are current photos shared to show the updated colors): flagstaffarizona.org/leafometer.
- Sedona; Peak season for fall colors usually runs from Mid-October to well into November. Offering a medley of willows, boxelders, velvet ash and the fiery scarlet of the bigtooth maples. For details: fs.usda.gov/coconino
- White Mountains; the lush greens of the White Mountains that the Valley dwellers flock to in the summer become incredible lush hues of aspens & oaks in the fall. Starting in Pinetop-Lakeside all the way thru Greer & beyond. Try one of the unpaved roads…there are lakes & steams all over-looking the incredible colors of fall! For more info: fs.usda.gov/asnf
There are many more areas to explore, these are just a few of our favorites. Have you found a can’t miss location? Tell us about it so we can check it out!