Let’s be honest. The Oregon coast does not have all that much foliage in the fall. Still, we’ve included it on this special list because the area has its own unique scenery to offer day-trippers.
Start in the city of Astoria, then drive south. Stop to go hiking at Ecola Beach and the Lewis And Clark National And State Historical Park. Stop and stay awhile in Cannon Beach. Explore the huge boulders there, especially Haystack Rock. Take a detour to visit the Tillamook Creamery too.
Drive along the Great Lakes and skirt the nation’s northern border. Begin your tri[ at the southern edge of famous Lake Huron. There you can see the tall ship schooners and pick up a souvenir in Bay City’s downtown antiques market.
From there head north along the edge of the lake. Go hiking through the Thunder Bay River State Forest. Then stop in memorable Mackinaw City and ride the ferry to Mackinac Island. There you can go bicycling or even enjoy a genuine horse and buggy around the historic island.