The middle of October means the peak of the fall foliage season. But where are the best places to see the leaves change color? We consulted Elizabeth Thorp of Poshbrood.com, and here are her picks, conveniently labeled by state.
Pennsylvania
Located in South Central Pennsylvania’s scenic Cumberland Valley just 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, two hours from Washington, DC and three hours from Philadelphia, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort is three miles off the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Exit 146. Experience the unrivaled luxury and service of the AAA Four-Diamond Omni Bedford Springs Resort, a National Historic Landmark.
Over 200 years ago Bedford Springs was a mecca of rejuvenation because of their 8 occurring natural hot springs. Today, the legacy continues at the world-class Springs Eternal Spa incorporating treatments with mineral waters, and a magnificently restored golf course. From our luxurious guest room accommodations and historic dining venues, kids' activities, indoor and outdoor pools, fire pits, hiking, biking and nearby historic towns and scenic drives. In Bedford County, there are 14 covered bridges each 100 years old or more that you can drive by or over. Also, the drive up from DC will pass several state forests. Take a scenic detour on route 26 and/or 326 to Bedford and you will be surrounded by foliage and state game lands. Colors in South PA will not peak until week of October 20th or later. Room rates from $319 a night.
Virginia
At this time, peak colors are expected in the mountains during mid to late October; the Piedmont and Coastal Plain are expected to peak between late October and mid-November.
Take the gorgeous Skyline Drive through Shenandoah Valley and stay at Big Meadows Lodge, located at mile 51.2 on Skyline Drive, is named for a large grassy meadow near the lodge where deer often graze. The main lodge was built with stones cut from the Massanutten Mountain in 1939 by the CCC and mountain laborers. The interior structure of the lodge, including the paneling, is made from native chestnut trees, which are now virtually extinct. The absence of in-room phones and wifi enhances the historical quietness of the surroundings. WIFI is available free of charge in the Great Room of the main building for lodge guests. There is an excellent restaurant on site. A Queen Queen room goes for around $195 a night.
There is horseback riding, hiking trails, guided nature walks, Junior Ranger program for kids, arts and crafts and even nightly entertainment. Closes for Season November 11th.
Here is the Park Service's Mountain Cam overlooking Skyline Drive
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
Video here of Big Meadows Lodge
Maryland
Deep Creek Lake is 3 hours north in Garrett County in Maryland. The mountains, rivers and lakes offer an abundance of activities in every vacation season. In fall, Deep Creek offers hiking, biking scenic drives, kayaking or simply curling up by the fire. From October 10 - 14, 2012 Deep Creek hosts The annual Autumn Glory Festival -- a five-day celebration of autumn that celebrates the beauty of the local fall foliage. From Wednesday through Sunday, the area offers a wide variety of things to do indoors or outdoors. The Festival includes two large parades, concerts, band competitions, art exhibits, antique & craft shows and much more.
Lake Pointe Inn is where couples will want to stay for a romantic getaway -- the inn is from 1890 and offers all modern comforts: individually controlled heat, air conditioning, flat screen TV/DVD players, private bath, and luxury linens. The Inn's award winning design is in the Arts and Crafts tradition. During the fall season guests can roast marshmallows, stargaze and relax around the Inn's outdoor fireplace. Read a book on the wrap-around porch in a rocking chair and take in changing leaves of trees around the lake as you enjoy a good read! The Inn also has several itineraries for guests who are interested in foliage drives -- including a jaunt through Amish Country to Mt. Davis where there is plenty of woodlands to enjoy and hiking trails. A full breakfast and evening hors d'oeuvres are included in the nightly rate. From $232 a night.
The Lodges at Sunset Village is a better option for families -- it features 21 cabin hotel suites that are perfect for that quick getaway or family vacation.Some cabins accept dogs and have hot tubs. From $185 a night for a one bedroom cabin with pullout couch midweek. Weekend rates are higher.
