As summer comes to a close, the bright blues and greens that characterize the sunshiny season are replaced by a deeper, more vibrant palette. But there are so many destinations to choose from. Where can you find the most vivid colors of fall? To answer that question we are crisscrossing the country, sharing some of our favorite spots from coast to coast. So, this year, whether you are planning a month-long odyssey or can only squeeze in a three-day weekend, we’ve got a destination for you.

Leaving the Midwest, our Fall Foliage Tour moves on to New England, the traditional epicenter for professional-grade leaf peeping. But we won’t be stopping in Vermont. We’re looking for the best leaves outside the verdant mountains.

MAINE

Acadia National Park (www.nps.gov/acad)

Acadia National Park

Among the best of the best for foliage indulgence, this national park also offers more than 120 miles of hiking trails, ranger-led educational programs and close proximity to Bar Harbor. Early October is the best time to spy the maples, beeches and birches at their red, orange and yellow best. Before you go, visit the park website to download a copy of The Beaver Log, the park’s annual newspaper.

  • Great Views: Jordan Pond Shore Trail
  • Scenic Drive: Park Loop Road
  • Be sure to check out the Islesford Historical Museum and Wild Gardens of Acadia.
  • Public camping: Blackwoods or Seawall campgrounds (www.nps.gov/acad)
    • Short walk to the ocean. Shower facilities, store about a half-mile from campgrounds.
    • Can accommodate campers or towables up to 35 feet. Big rigs go elsewhere.
    • GPS: 44.338556, -68.273335
  • Private camping: Bar Harbor Campground (www.thebarharborcampground.com)
    • Open only through Columbus Day. Big rig accessible.
    • 409 State Hwy 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609. Call: 207.288.5185.

Traveler Tips

  • Don’t miss the Old Canada Scenic Byway. About two-and-a-half hours west of Acadia, this three-hour driving tour offers stunning fall colors and interesting Maine history.
  • On the byway tour you can camp at Evergreens Campground (www.evergreenscampground.com). 202 Ferry St.
, Solon, ME 04979. Call: 207.643.2324.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Kancamagus Scenic Byway (www.visitwhitemountains.com)

Kancamagus Scenic Byway

From Mount Washington, cruise down NH16 to the White Mountains Trail. This three-hour tour runs through the White Mountains. Here, in addition to beautiful fall color, you can see what’s left of the famed “Old Man of the Mountain.” The roads are busy this time of year, so take advantage of scenic overlook stops along the way. Early October is peak time to see the fiery red, orange and yellow maples and birches.

  • Great Views: Mount Washington
  • Scenic Drive: The Kancamagus Scenic Byway
  • Where to stay: Cove Camping Area (www.covecamping.com)
    • Electric and water hookups. Lakefront sites with plenty of shade trees.
    • Not for big rigs.
    • Conway, NH 03818. GPS: 43.979238, -71.120348. Call: 603.447.6734.
  • Where to stay: Jigger Johnson Campground
    • Flush toilets, pay showers. No hookups.
    • Near Russell-Colbath Historic site, an 1830 homestead.
    • No reservations, fills up fast in season. Self-pay so bring cash.
    • Route 112, North Conway, NH 03860. Call: 603.447.5448.

Conway Scenic Railroad
When not leaf-peeping, cruise in to Conway, N.H., (www.northconwaynh.com) for shopping, museums and many day-trip activities. Keep an eye peeled for covered bridges on the Saco and Swift rivers. For a unique foliage-viewing experience, hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad (www.conwayscenic.com).
New Hampshire