3 Dreamy Fall Hikes
Fall is one of the best seasons to appreciate nature as the greens of trees turn yellow, then to every shade of orange, red, and brown. It's a phenomenon of the natural world that must NOT be missed.
What better way experience this than a hike, while the weather is cool but still bearable. The air is fresh, and with the foliage dropping, you get a clear and refreshing view of the scenery. The only question you should be asking yourself is, which fall hikes are a must-do?!
The Enchantments, Washington
Located in the Central Cascades in the Leavenworth Area, The Enchantments can only be described as a place that's right out of a storybook. Most hikers have likened the dreamy scenery to Aasgard with it’s crystal blue lakes and granite peaks.
It may just be the most beautiful trail in all of Washington. The catch is, it's a bit of a challenging hike with about 4,400 feet in elevation to one lake in the Upper Enchantments. Make sure to start this hike early in the day so that you are done by nightfall and that you are well-equipped and ready for the journey.
Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 18.0m (one-way)
More information here: www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/enchantment-lakes
Coconino National Forrest, Arizona
Photo credit: Leave No Trace
Arizona is probably one of the top destinations in the U.S. for hikers who want to take in the most majestic scenery. And, there's no place more majestic than the Coconino National Forest, named after the Coho Native Americans.
The national forest is about 2million acres of land with what feels like an infinite amount of trails and paths to choose from. We recommend the Kachina Peak Wilderness for medium to hard trails and O'Leary Peak Trail for an easier trail.
Difficulty: Varying
Length: Varying
More information here: www.fs.usda.gov/activity/coconino/recreation/hiking/?recid=54884&actid=50
Sleeping Beauty Mountain and Lake George Trail, New York
Yes, Sleeping Beauty Mountain actually exists. It's a 1.8mile hike in the Lake George Wild Forest area on the east side of Lake George in Washington County. The trails are moderate and steep but it is family-friendly. Once you reach the summit, you will realize how truly amazing nature really is.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.8m
More information here: www.lakegeorge.com/hiking/sleeping-beauty-mountain/