Follow the Trail

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

The vibrant palette of gorgeous fall colors means one thing... winter is on its way. Don't let autumn's mild temperatures and beautiful scenery go to waste. Instead of sweating it out on the stationary bike at your gym this weekend consider hitting the trails and soaking up the sights and sounds of the season.

The following routes are highly promoted by tourism bureaus in the hopes of getting nature lovers to visit off-the-beaten-path spots. Each boasts stunning views of fall foliage. What's more, these hikes won't break the bank. Free maps and other complimentary interpretive material show off the best a region has to offer, including free festivals and other events:

Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Trail: Located in Olympic National Park, this route leads to 24 waterfalls in northwest Washington. Views include rain-forest valleys, coastlines, alpine meadows and friendly rural towns. Also, the waterfalls are thundering this time of year, foliage is spectacular, and you're likely to spot elk as they make their annual trek to the lower valleys. Sol Duc Falls, a signature sight in Olympic National Park, is a short 6-mile from Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.

Wisconsin's Door County: The picturesque area is home to some of the most incredible fall foliage in the nation. The peninsula is dotted with quaint towns and tons of hiking trails that lead to impressive views of Lake Michigan. Door County is a short drive from Michigan and Illinois, and once you arrive you can give your car a rest because the state parks are located within walking distance of most major lodgings.

Other trail systems around the United States that will surely whet your appetite for food and fitness include:

*Vermont's Cheese Trail *Oregon's Fruit Loop in the fertile Hood River Valley *Connecticut's Art Trail *Arizona's Salsa Trail *New Mexico's Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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