Adventure

If you're looking for ghost towns, haunted houses, and creepy attractions to visit this fall, look no further than these destinations below. From dark local histories to paranormal investigative hot spots, there's something for every Halloween enthusiast looking for a perfectly frightful October getaway. Hear witchy stories in New England An autumn day in Salem, Massachusetts by Laura Michalski - Unsplash One of the most quintessentially "Halloween" towns is Salem, Massachusetts, thanks to its unique history. New England, in general, offers a great destination for fall getaways, too. Along with the autumn colors and fantastically crisp weather, this part of the country has some of the oldest buildings as well as key historic sites from early American military conflicts (a perfect combination for hauntings!). For a classic Halloween activity, Better Than Fiction's Salem Walking Tours offers tours around witchcraft as well as dark local tales beyond the infamous trials. Step back into the Old West at this ghost town A boarded up building in Kirwin, Wyoming - courtesy of Wyoming Office of Tourism Along the Wood River near Meeteetse and situated on U.S. Forest Service land is Kirwin, one of the most intriguing abandoned places in Wyoming. During the 1890s, Kirwin had 38 buildings and approximately 200 residents, many of whom journeyed to the settlement during its gold and silver boom. In the winter of 1907, a massive snowstorm caused an avalanche, taking lives and thus beginning the slow deterioration of the town itself. In the 1930s, the land became part of the Double Dee Guest Ranch, visited by Amelia Earhart and her husband, George Putnam. A cabin was under construction for Earhart when she disappeared during her around-the-world flight in 1937 that was never completed.If you wish to explore the ghost town and its potential haunting, you want to make sure you have four-wheel drive. You can book private tours or snag an ATV for an off-road adventure. View the remnants of her cabin, which are visible about a mile from Kirwin, as well as an old hotel, small log structures, and mining machinery at this old West ghost town. After visiting Kirwin, be sure to stop the Irma Hotel in nearby Cody, Wyoming. In 1902, Buffalo Bill opened the Irma Hotel, naming it after his daughter. Stay a night in Room 35 if you're brave—known as the Paul Stock room, it is one of the original 15 rooms in the hotel and has been the scene of the most ghost stories in the hotel. Elsewhere, down the hall in Room 16, many guests have reported seeing an apparition of Irma Cody Garlow sitting in a rocking chair in the corner of the room. She died of influenza and pneumonia in the hotel when she was 35, and just a few days after her husband and hotel manager Fred Garlow died of pneumonia. Employees of the hotel have even said they've seen Buffalo Bill wandering the hallways at night, or have heard the jangle of spurs in the bar when it's closed for the evening. Uncover Civil War haunts and more in Tennessee The sun on the horizon over Franklin, Tennessee by Josh Withers - Unsplash Just outside of Nashville, in Franklin, Tennessee, is the Lotz House. It is considered one of the most haunted places in the country, and with its history, one can easily see why. The house, which has been on the National Historic Register since 1976 is located at “ground zero” of the Civil War's Battle of Franklin. Historians describe the fighting that took place at the Battle of Franklin and in the Lotz front yard “some of the most severe hand to hand fighting during the four year long war.” Ten thousand Americans were killed, wounded or missing. The Lotz House served as a hospital for the wounded soldiers on both sides until the following summer. Book a special evening ghost tour and take a chance to experience the spirits and other unexplained phenomenon that are said to haunt the historic home. Tennessee is home to several other great spooky attractions that visitors can add to their itinerary. Nearby, in Nashville on October 27th, visitors can also plan a trip to experience The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, an interactive one-man play about the classic horror tale at The Hermitage with showings at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. In Manchester, the Manchester Zombie Walk and Halloween Faire takes place on Friday, Oct. 13 at Fred Deadman Park will feature vendors, face-painting, axe throwing, food trucks, live bands and a spooky good time. Head to New Orleans for pirates and voodoo Crescent City is full of creepy sites. This city offers the highest number of haunted hotels and ghost tours, and ranked number 5 overall in the best cities for paranormal activities. Used as a hospital during the Civil War, Hotel Provincial allegedly houses a few ghostly guests. Spirits spotted at the Old Absinthe House include infamous pirate Jean Lafitte, Andrew Jackson, and Louisiana Voodoo queen, Marie Laveau. Visit sites iconic to “The Vampire Chronicles” author on the Unofficial Anne Rice Tour. Encounter the paranormal along the Pacific Coast A graveyard in Yountville, California by Melissa Mullin - Unsplash This, Los Angeles, California was ranked the #1 city to visit for paranormal activity by LawnLove. Their metrics show that the City of Angels has the most paranormal conventions and events, the 5th most ghost tours, and the most haunted sites; interestingly, it is also the second best city to visit for witches and 4th best for vampires, according to additional LawnLove studies. California also comes in as the best state to look for UFOs. Ghosts seem to haunt the City of Angels with a dramatic flair at performance venues The Comedy Store and Pantages Theatre. Book a night at the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel for potential encounters with the star-studded spirits of Marilyn Monroe and Montgomery Clift. In nearby Burbank, find oddities and interactive exhibits for paranormal activity lovers and horror fans at the Mystic Museum. Nearby, San Diego took 4th place in the best paranormal cities rankings. Book your own paranormal investigation at the Whaley House, the self-proclaimed “America’s Most Haunted House.” A short drive from Downtown San Diego, a ghost reportedly haunts the beachside Hotel del Coronado. Learn more about the phantoms haunting Downtown San Diego at the Ghosts of the Gaslamp weekly walking tour. Also in California is Willow Creek, the so-called Bigfoot Capital of the World. Learn more about the Pacific Coast Bigfoot at the Bigfoot Discovery Museum in Felton, or search for it yourself in the Redwoods.

Pioneers in small ship adventure cruising, UnCruise Adventures, recently unveiled their latest 'Aloha Days' Hawaii deals, where every booking is a step towards supporting Maui recovery. For every new booking made during 'Aloha Days' until September 28th, a portion of each deposit will directly contribute to Maui Strong, an initiative to rebuild and rejuvenate Maui and Lahaina town. UnCruise Adventures itineraries are deeply woven with the communities and lands they touch. This is especially true for Hawaiian adventures. The real essence of Hawaii lies not just in its breathtaking landscapes but in its people, traditions, and the stories they share. With the recent events affecting Maui and Lahaina town, this is a reminder of the profound interconnectedness of our adventures with the wellbeing of these communities and the importance of supporting them. The sun shines on the horizon in Kona, Hawaii by Peter Luo - Unsplash “Aloha Days' is not just about offering unbeatable seasonal offers to our guests. It's about embodying the true spirit of Aloha. By supporting a return to travel we can also contribute to the recovery and discovery of the very essence that makes Hawaii so special,” commented UnCruise Adventures, Owner and Captain Dan Blanchard. “Come, join us, and let's make a difference together. This itinerary comes from my heart and each time I visit I'm reminded of why I created this adventure.” The current campaign offers deals on cruises including: Waived Single Supplement: Solo adventurers come aboard. No single supplement on select dates for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Group Incentives: For every group of 12 paid guests, one sails free. Combine with other savings for even more benefits. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Unbeatable Cabin Savings: Get $1,500 off per couple or $750 off per person. Stack this offer with other select savings. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Double Kids in Nature Savings: Receive $1,000 off per child, with two paying adults. Normally $500 per child. Can be combined with selected offers. Some restrictions apply. Valid for all Hawaii 2023 sailings and early 2024 sailings. Jellyfish near Molokai in the Hawaiian Islands by Jake Houglum - Unsplash These seasonal offers apply to the 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes Adventure that explores from Kona to Molokai or reverse, Molokai to Kona. The 2023-2024 season runs from Nov 18th, 2023, to May 4th, 2024. This includes Hawaii's breathtaking landscapes, volcanic wonders, and rich culture. Guests embark on multi-activity adventures daily, from hiking volcanoes to swimming with manta rays. The all-inclusive week-long itinerary embarks on the Safari Explorer, a 36-passenger vessel built for adventure. Enjoy fresh cuisine, no extra onboard costs, no lines, no crowds, and plenty of adventure.

Home to more than 70,000 acres of public lands, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia is the United States' newest national park. Established originally as a national river in 1978, the area was redesignated in 2020 as a park and has been a hallowed spot for locals for generations. The recent designation invites travelers to visit, explore and discover this slice of heaven. The national park has also received distinguished mentions by National Geographic, Frommer's, TIME, and AFAR, all of which label the New River Gorge a must-visit destination. Easily accessible by Route 19 and I-64, it is one of West Virginia's most photographed areas. The iconic steel arch bridge was once the longest in the world and welcomes travelers to this cherished region. Widely known as the second oldest river in the world, the New River cuts through extensive geological formations that make way for diverse flora and fauna. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons call this park home, and you'll often spot a few along your travels. Hiking trails here take you to spectacular overlooks and through remnants of old coal mining towns. Celebrate Bridge Day this October The New River Gorge bridge in autumn - courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism Each year, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve hosts Bridge Day, the nation's premier extreme sports event, where nearly 150,000 spectators watch as 350 BASE jumpers parachute 876 feet into the Gorge's stunning fall colors. Bridge Day is West Virginia's largest single-day festival and one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Held annually on the third Saturday in October on the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette County, this is the only day each year that spectators can walk across the fifth-longest steel-arch bridge in the world as daredevils take the plunge into one of the oldest rivers in the world and an area recognized by TIME as One of the World's Greatest Places. For festival-goers, the day is filled with excitement, delicious bites from local food vendors and the opportunity to walk the catwalk underneath the New River Gorge Bridge or zipline off it. Watching the jumpers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Some of the BASE jumpers make the jump even more exciting by being launched out of the "human catapult" while wearing flashy costumes. All the while, rappellers ascend and descend from the catwalk. Win a thrilling BASE jump experience A tandem BASE jump from Bridge Day 2022 - courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism This year, the West Virginia Department of Tourism is holding a contest to award one thrill-seeker the opportunity to tandem BASE jump from the New River Gorge Bridge this fall. The winner of the contest will receive a free trip to West Virginia and the opportunity of a lifetime as a part of Bridge Day festivities in the nation's newest national park. Daredevils from all over the U.S. and Canada are encouraged to sign up here before September 30th for the chance to win. Last year, 350 BASE jumpers from 39 states and four countries took part in this event. Some are experienced jumpers who leap solo, while others are new to the sport and go tandem with an experienced jumper. Much like a tandem skydive, jumpers are harnessed to the experienced Tandem BASE instructor. The winner of the contest will jump with Sean Chuma, who has completed more BASE jumps than anyone else in the world. Chuma has over 4,000 skydives and 7,400 BASE jumps, and also runs a world-renowned school, called I-D BASE, that teaches experienced skydivers how to BASE jump. "Bridge Day is one of the world's top extreme-sports events, and we are thrilled to offer one lucky daredevil the opportunity to join us and literally fly with some of the world's most spectacular fall foliage as a backdrop," said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. "Whether you're adventurous enough to parachute nearly 900 feet or you'd prefer a nice casual stroll across the bridge to soak in the fall colors while enjoying the festivities, Bridge Day is an experience you'll never forget."

Renowned for its rugged landscapes and untamed wilderness, Wyoming shifts into a captivating tapestry of red, gold and amber, inviting travelers to experience a season like no other. Whether relishing the serenity of Grand Teton National Park, embarking on scenic drives through the Bighorn Mountains or savoring local culinary delights, autumn in Wyoming promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature's brilliance. The following destinations showcase the best of autumn across every corner of the Cowboy State: Casper Mountain Located in central Wyoming, the mountain's expansive woodlands practically explode with a vibrant mix of aspen and deciduous trees, transforming the land into a colorful masterpiece. Whether wandering along scenic trails, like Garden Creek waterfall, that wind through the woods or taking in views from the mountaintop, the beauty of the leaves changing hue creates an unforgettable experience. Nearby town: Casper. The nearby gateway city, offers a blend of old Western roots and modern comforts. The town boasts an active arts scene, complete with galleries and cultural happenings. Notable landmarks such as the Nicolaysen Art Museum and the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center give a glimpse into the area's past. Medicine Bow National Forest Fall leaves on a road in Saratoga, Wyoming near Medicine Bow National Forest by Dana Davis - Unsplash In southwest Wyoming, Medicine Bow National Forest stands as an inviting autumnal haven, with its expansive woodlands showcasing a rich palette of fall colors, the forest becomes a breathtaking canvas of nature's artistry. Nearby town: Laramie. As one of the gateway cities to this natural wonder, a visit to Laramie adds a historical and cultural appeal to the journey. Known for its lively arts scene, Laramie hosts a diverse range of events, including theatrical performances and art exhibitions. The city's well-preserved architecture and lively downtown offer a glimpse into its storied past, reflecting both its Wild West heritage and its role as a thriving college town, home to the University of Wyoming. Bighorn National Forest In north-central Wyoming, Bighorn National Forest emerges as an ideal location for those seeking a magical fall oasis. Take in a wide variety of fall colors that cover the landscape as you explore along hiking trails leading through this stunning display. While in the area, be sure to cruise along the Bighorn Scenic Byway and take in the breathtaking scenery. Nearby town: Sheridan. As the gateway city to the Bighorns, Sheridan lends its own unique charm to the journey. This quaint town boasts a rich history as a bustling cattle town, with its Main Street designated as a historic district. Sheridan's lively cultural scene offers galleries, local theater and museums like the Bradford Brinton Memorial & Museum. Shoshone National Forest Leaves beginning to turn near Cody, Wyoming - courtesy of Natalie Strong As the leaves transition into warm, rich hues, the Shoshone National Forest becomes a fall fanatic’s dream destination for leaf peeping. This natural performance invites both contemplation and exploration, offering trails that wind through this breathtaking array of color. Nearby town: Cody. Just outside of Shoshone National Forest and Yellowstone National Park, Cody adds its own unique touch. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, the town carries a spirit of the Wild West in its roots. While there, be sure to make a stop at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West which houses five museums in one that celebrate Western art and Plains Indian heritage. Devils Tower National Monument Sunset at Devils Tower by Mick Haupt - Unsplash In the heart of the Wyoming Black Hills, Devils Tower National Monument, also known as Bear Lodge, emerges as an inviting destination to take in the changing seasons. Take a stroll along the paved Tower Trail to observe all the angles of the monument and take in the dreamlike fall colors. Nearby town: Sundance. Located less than 30 miles southeast of Devils Tower, Sundance boasts a rich history. As the site where the Sundance Kid received his infamous name, the town's historic main street resonates with that legacy. Squaretop Mountain A cow moose and calf near Pinedale, Wyoming by Tim Peterson - Unsplash Nestled in the Wyoming wilderness, Squaretop Mountain stands as a captivating retreat for those seeking the beauty of autumn's embrace. For the best sights and wildlife viewing, take an early morning hike along Green River Lakes Trail. Nearby town: Pinedale. As a gateway city to Squaretop Mountain, Pinedale serves as a cozy place for guests to stay overnight, explore its food and drink scene as well as learn about its historical significance. Known for its roots in the fur trading era, the town preserves its heritage with historical landmarks such as Rendezvous Pointe. Moreover, Pinedale serves as a hub for outdoor adventure, offering access to the Wind River Range and Fremont Lake.

Backroads recently announced the launch of Women's Adventures, a new offer exclusively for women travelers. Set in some of the world's most beautiful places, these new vacations feature some of the company's most popular Walking & Hiking itineraries in bucket-list destinations. While the all-women trips will naturally have a different dynamic than other Backroads' trips, they will offer the same commitment to excellence, flexible itineraries and exceptional Trip Leaders for which the company is known. "As part of the Hale family business, I've been lucky enough to take many Backroads trips, several of them with women only to destinations like Argentina, Vietnam/Cambodia and the California Wine Country," said Liz Hale, Backroads' Director of Community Partnerships. "There's nothing like traveling with a group of women. The shared experience on and off the trail, the sense of adventure, the deep connections and conversations, easy laughter and the joy of sisterhood that forms and strengthens as we create new lifelong memories.” Women seeking outdoor and cultural travel experiences in combination with stylish creature comforts—whether traveling solo or with female friends or family members—has been a growing trend over the years. Backroads has seen an increase in select travel dates becoming all-women trips, often as Private Trips. These Walking & Hiking tours are crafted to offer travelers an unfiltered and genuine connection to the culture, landscapes, people and natural beauty of the region they are exploring. With over 30 years of experience designing and leading Walking & Hiking trips across the globe, launching Women's Adventures that feature some of the company's top hiking itineraries is an exciting evolution of the Backroads trip collection. “There's a special magic and connection that often happens when women gather,” said Backroads Executive Vice President, Avery Hale Smith. “I've experienced this firsthand on the girls trips I've participated in over the years, and we've heard it repeatedly from guests who have traveled privately on all-women Backroads trips. We're excited to offer women the opportunity to connect, learn and be immersed in the local culture and community while discovering these amazing destinations together.” While the trips include locations from all over the world, there are several North American-based itineraries, including the selected trips below, that are more accessible and budget-friendly when adding in the costs of flights or other transportation. Banff to Yoho (Alberta, Canada) A 6-day getaway to the soaring peaks and emerald lakes of Banff, Lake Louise & Yoho National Park. Book here. Hike scenic trails in three Canadian national parks with dramatic vistas, beautiful lakes and lush landscapesWalk through evergreen forests and flowering meadows to sensational glaciers, magnificent waterfalls and towering peaksAdmire mountain reflections on Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, then hike to famous Plain of Six Glaciers TeahouseLook for mountain goats, pikas and marmots—perhaps come face-to-face with one of them! Palm Springs & Joshua Tree (California) Desert vegetation in Joshua Tree, California by Ben Karpinski - Unsplash A 4-day trip to this national park wonderland of rocks and desert oases. Book here. Hike Joshua Tree National Park's remarkable landscape strewn with gigantic boulders and shady palm oases Marvel at the desert's distinctive beauty—from Joshua trees to unique wildlife like roadrunners and desert bighorn sheep Admire the mid-century architecture and old Hollywood glamour of Palm Springs’ Las Palmas neighborhoodHike a section of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, taking in impressive views of San Gorgonio Mountain Yosemite (California) A waterfall in Yosemite National Park by Mick Haupt - Unsplash A 6-day excursion to explore this iconic national park's dramatic half dome and waterfalls. Book here. Experience spectacular hikes to alpine meadows, waterfalls and jaw-dropping panoramas Gaze skyward on a walk through a grove of giant sequoias, Yosemite's ancient trees Explore the endless trails of Tuolumne Meadows, a glacier-carved area over two miles long Discover the impressive rock formations for which Yosemite is known, including world-famous Half Dome Crate Lake & Cascades (Oregon) Crater Lake by Steven Coffey - Unsplash A 6-day adventure in the Pacific Northwest. Book here. Delight in Oregon's varied geology as you adventure on foot to the edge of the world-famous Crater LakeExplore the vibrant city of Bend, Oregon's lively and picturesque hub of outdoor adventure and craft brewingHike amid the grandeur of Oregon's Central Cascades, including a section of the famed Pacific Crest TrailAdmire Crater Lake's breathtakingly clear sapphire waters from some of the very best vantage points Sedona (Arizona) The red rocks of Sedona, Arizona by Edmundo Mendez, Jr - Unsplash A 4-day getaway to explore the red rocks and desert magic of Arizona. Book here. Hike among jagged peaks and vast canyons, and along trails blossoming with cacti, manzanita and agave plantsMarvel at the ever-changing colors of the landscape as the sun passes through the day, leaving behind a dazzling indigo sky full of starsWander in and out of art galleries and shops filled with jewelry and crafts made by local artists at Sedona’s Tlaquepaque villageRelish Southwestern cuisine and luxuriate in our quiet abode surrounded by red mesas and rugged cliffs Yellowstone & Tetons (Wyoming) Sunlight illuminates the peaks of the Teton mountain range by Toan Chu - Unsplash A 6-day trip to discover the geology, wildlife and peaks of these national parks. Book here. Observe the famous bubbling and churning geologic features of Yellowstone—including Old Faithful, of course Hike through gorgeous valley landscapes while gazing up to catch sight of the spectacular Teton peaks Photograph the wondrous Yellowstone wildlife you're bound to encounter—from elk to eagles and bison to bears Raft the Snake River with expert river runners, enjoying the views and abundant wildlife sightings —For more Women's Walking & Hiking trip itineraries, head to Backroads Women's Adventures.

As the nights grow longer and the temperatures begin to cool, the aurora borealis returns to the skies above Fairbanks, Alaska. While aurora activity occurs each day throughout the year, August ushers in the darkness needed for northern lights viewing. The onset of the Aurora Season, which spans August 21 through April 21, means eight months ahead of spectacular opportunities to see the northern lights. Aurora viewing on its own is a remarkable experience, but what if it could be elevated by combining it with a thrilling or rejuvenating activity? Explore some of the ways to make a northern lights excursion that much more unforgettable. Capture the curtains of lights Aurora borealis over Fairbanks, Alaska by Tommy Tang - Unsplash Many local businesses have skilled photographers and guides who are eager to assist you in setting up your camera to capture photographs of the northern lights. If you'd rather step in front of the camera, a variety of tour operators and aurora businesses will take your picture against the stunning backdrop of the aurora borealis giving you the chance to take home a once-in-a-lifetime keepsake. Find the best photo ops with: Alaska-Wildlife-Guide, Alaska Aurora Adventures, Aurora Bear - Aurora & Wildlife Photography, Steven Miley Photography Enjoy serenity and solitude while ice fishing Connect with a knowledgeable guide to help you drill through the ice that can reach up to four feet in thickness. As you patiently wait for the aurora to appear overhead, drop your line to catch chinook or coho salmon, Arctic char, or rainbow trout. Some outfitters will prepare your freshly caught fish in a warm and comfy hut right on the spot. Ice fish with: Rod's Alaskan Guide Service, Alaska Aurora Adventures, Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures Have an adventure with furry companions The swirling aurora in the night sky serves as the perfect backdrop for taking a quick 30-minute ride in the basket of a dog sled. For the more adventurous, learn to mush your own team on a multi-day excursion into the Alaskan wilderness. Whether you opt for a quick jaunt or embark on an extended adventure, Alaska's high-energy and adorable sled dogs will steal your heart. Book dog sledding with: Firewalker Alaska Malamutes, Last Frontier Mushing Co-op, Rod's Alaskan Guide Service, Alaska Aurora Adventures, A+ Dog Sled Excursions and Tours Relax in the hot springs Aurora borealis over Chena Hot Springs by Jo San Diego - Unsplash Easily accessible from Fairbanks, take a dip in a natural hot spring pool while the northern lights dance above you. Imagine yourself floating in the warmth despite the crisp air around you. Enjoy the rejuvenating mineral-rich springs to relax your body and warm your soul at the end of an adventure-filled day. Relax with: 1st Alaska Tours, Alaska Aurora Adventures, Chena Hot Springs Resort Ride through snowy trails Experience the rush of snowmobiling under the northern lights. Snowmachines – as they are most often called in Alaska – are one of the easiest ways to get into the incredible snowy areas that surround Fairbanks. With the assistance of a knowledgeable guide, you'll receive the necessary equipment, expert guidance, and an invigorating journey through the backcountry, all while the aurora swirls above. Snowmobile with: Rod's Alaskan Guide Service, Alaska Aurora Adventures Seek out magical wildlife A full moon glows over the mountains in Alaska by Jonathan Wheeler - Unsplash Envision a truly enchanting evening combining the beauty of the northern lights and the fun, playful energy of reindeer. These whimsical, domesticated cousins of caribou make engaging and entertaining companions to stroll alongside and visit with. Let the magic of the reindeer and aurora borealis forever leave a mark on your heart. Find guides from: Alaska Aurora Adventures, Aurora Bear - Aurora & Wildlife Photography, Murphy Dome Yurt Journey to the Arctic Circle Travel north from Fairbanks to discover a landscape like no other. While it's not recommended to traverse the Dalton Highway yourself, especially in winter, it's easy to connect with a guide or tour company to fly or drive you to the Arctic Circle and beyond. Whether you opt for a single-day trip or an unforgettable overnight one, scanning the skies for the aurora above the Arctic Circle certainly is an opportunity not to be overlooked. Book with: 1st Alaska Tours, Alaska Aurora Adventures, Alaska Safari Sultan Tours

Ready for things to cool down and autumn colors to appear? Start planning your outdoor adventure to the East Coast. Spacious Skies Campgrounds is offering an easy-to-follow campground-to-campground Fall Color Trail that highlights peak fall color as it progresses from the North to the South. The first location on the 15-stop trail is the northernmost campground in the collection, Balsam Woods in north central Maine, where fall color can be viewed starting in early September. The final stop along the meandering trail is Savannah Oaks in Savannah, Georgia where fall color lasts well into November. The Fall Color Trail was first offered last year, too, but new additions to the trail this year include Savannah Oaks and Bear Den in Spruce Pine, North Carolina near Asheville. Mileage from Maine to Georgia by way of the campgrounds is just shy of 2,500 miles. Travelers who are members of the Spacious Skies Loyalty Program, called Cosmic Campers, receive a 12 percent discount on all RV site, cabin and glamping reservations. The annual fee to join the program is $31.90; members also receive exclusive releases of Cosmic Camper merchandise and regular updates about Spacious Skies locations and programs. Complete details about the trail are available online with campground-by-campground details about when the fall color begins and ends in each location, regional trees and the colors visitors can expect to see. Although only a lucky few people might be able to take nearly three months to visit all 15 locations during the peak color in each location, there are many ways regional RVers and glampers can enjoy partial trail fun. The trail is especially popular among snowbirds from Canada and northern states who want to get an early start on their warm-weather winter-season adventures. “Fall-color enthusiasts will find abundant places along the trail to enjoy the color no matter when in the season they are traveling,” said Ali Rasmussen, co-founder of Spacious Skies Campgrounds. “In September, the maples, birches and oaks at campgrounds in Maine and New Hampshire are bursting with color. And by late October and November, the oak and hickory forests in the Carolinas, Tennessee and Georgia have turned stunning shades of red, copper and yellow.” Beyond the stunning color, there are plenty of other reasons to follow the fall along the Spacious Skies Campgrounds Fall Color Trail. Here are some of the highlights along the trail: Walnut Grove (Maine) Fall foliage on a hazy mountain in Maine by Zac Durant - Unsplash Trees to see: Maples, birches and oaksColors: Yellow, red, brown and purpleFall foliage timing: mid-September through mid-October Campers at Spacious Skies Walnut Grove in southern Maine can visit the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier and enjoy live music, great food and retro beach-y entertainment like arcade games and rides. Fall color here begins in mid-September and lasts through about mid-October. Adirondack Peaks (New York) Saranac Lake in the fall by Kurt Von - Unsplash Trees to see: Gums, oaks, hickories, maples and elmsColors: Yellow, red and orangeFall foliage timing: Mid-September through mid-October There’s an authentic, almost retro, vibe at two New York state campgrounds - Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks and Spacious Skies Woodland Hills. Both have fun amenities like gem mining, a jumping pillow, playgrounds and an arcade. Woodland Hills offers fishing, paddleboat rentals, an open-air pavilion and volleyball, while Adirondack Peaks has miniature golf, a gaga ball pit and two pools for extra fun. There are a variety of lodging choices for non-RVers too. Woodland Hills features retro RV rentals and a pond-side cottage, while Adirondack Peaks has glamping yurts and a selection of cabins. Shenandoah Views (Virginia) Leaves fall in Shenandoah National Park by Becky Winner - Unsplash Trees to see: Oaks, chestnut, maples, ashes, birches and basswoodsColors: Red, orange and yellowFall foliage timing: Early- to late-October Blue Ridge Parkway fans will find three campgrounds within striking distance of the famous 469-mile route. Just beyond the northern edge of the parkway is Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray, Virginia, near Shenandoah National Park, where fall color typically lasts until mid-October. Here, visitors can book yurts and cabins as well as a variety of RV sites. Bear Den (North Carolina) Fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina by Alex Diaz - Unsplash Trees to see: Oaks, hickories, maples, gum and cypressColors: Orange, red, goldFall foliage timing: Early October to early November Set right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 324.8, among the breathtaking Blue Ridge and Black Mountains and nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Spacious Skies Bear Den is your mountain adventure destination! Bear Den features a private fishing lake (in addition to the other many nearby fishing spots) an arcade, gem mining, and other family games and activities on-site. It's also quite close to Asheville, North Carolina as well as another Fall Colors trail stop at Spacious Skies Hidden Creek in Marion. At both of these stunning North Carolina campgrounds, guests may see fall color as late as mid-November. Belle Ridge (Tennessee) Bright red foliage by Jeremy Thomas - Unsplash Trees to see: Oaks, maples, dogwoods, poplarsColors: Red, orange and yellowFall foliage timing: Mid-October to mid-November At Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tennessee, there’s a natural fishing hole where campers can spend long, lazy days savoring the season. Located just west of the Appalachian Mountains in central Tennessee, campers at this 500-acre destination can also hike to waterfalls at the campground and at nearby state parks. Located just off I-40, the campground feels secluded but is easily accessible from the highway.