The majorities of people in rural areas of the upper Midwest both eagerly anticipate, and dread, the arrival of autumn. The temperatures plummet and the heating bills run sky high. There is also another menace. One so horrible that it causes most people to stay indoors until the snow begins to fall. I am writing about "leafers". For those of you out there unfamiliar with the phrase, a leafer is a person from a larger city who jumps in his or her moderately priced SUV and invades once peaceful small towns to watch the leaves on the trees change color. I have become such a person, and as such, know three of the best places in the country’s midsection to witness this amazing autumnal display.
Bayfield, Wisconsin. Bayfield is a very small city on the shores of Lake Superior. For most of the year it has a population of around 700. All the shops are locally owned and operated by artisans of some repute and most of the citizens lead a peaceful existence. That is until the first weekend in October. Every year thousands of people from dozens of states come to this sleepy town for Bayfield’s Apple Festival. They all come for the food, entertainment, and mainly to watch the brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple that can be seen on every tree in and around town. The town of Bayfield is centered along one main street runs down a very steep hill until it reaches the shore of Chequamegon Bay. It is a beautiful sight to behold, but don’t expect to find a hotel room. They are few and far between and most are booked years in advance.
Afton State Park, Minnesota. You cannot find a more picture perfect setting than the Afton State Park, which is located just south east of the Twin Cities. There are dozens of hiking, biking, and horseback trails to explore. The fall foliage is also complimented by the amazing views of the St. Croix River. If you are looking for a weekend getaway, camping is available. It would be wise to check the weather report because Minnesota cold snaps are frigid, and can come without warning. You definitely do not want to be stuck in a flimsy nylon tent in 20 degree weather.
| |
StarReviews Top 3
Travel Websites |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
The Entire Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Michigan has gotten a bad rap over the last few years. The state has suffered through devastating unemployment and rising crime rates. If not for the North American International Auto Show, which is held annually in Detroit, the state would be a tourist wasteland. That is a shame because you cannot trip over a stone in the upper half of the state without witnessing an amazing array of fall colors. If you have a little extra cash and want to take your children on a weekend getaway, head to Michigan, especially Laughing Whitefish Falls. It is one of the state’s tallest waterfalls and should not be missed.
Leafing is not only a fun family activity, but a great way to support the economies of small town USA. Do a little research and find some great spots to watch the leaves change color in your own neck of the woods.
Tags:
travel,
vacation