Where (and when) to catch the best fall views this autumn

Try something new for fall.

It’s almost time for fall. Everyone is watching the fall foliage map and counting the days until the weather turns cool. If you want to make the most of autumn once it arrives, start planning your seasonal vacations now.

Ready for pumpkin patches and corn mazes? While there are plenty of options for places to go this fall, it can be hard to figure out which spots to visit and when. Make the planning process easy with this list of the country’s best fall views. Below are Outdoors Wire’s top four picks for 2023 autumn vacation destinations, plus some info on the best times to visit.

PHOTOS: More highlights from Florida football’s fall practice season

Here’s a look at a handful of highlights from Florida football’s fall practice ahead of the 2023 season.

Florida football is wrapping up its fall practice schedule ahead of the start of classes on Wednesday, Aug. 23. Billy Napier and Co. conducted its second and final scrimmage of the preseason on Aug. 18, and since has been tying up the loose ends before school starts.

The Gators saw plenty of fresh faces this summer on the practice fields, including former Wisconsin Badgers transfer quarterback Graham Mertz, who earned the starting nod after Napier withheld his decision until after the scrimmage. There have also been some injuries that have altered the roster heading into the 2023 campaign, but for the most part, the team has worked hard at getting lean and mean for the grueling gridiron schedule ahead.

Below is a look at highlights from Florida’s workouts on both Aug. 9 and Aug. 17 at the Gary Condron Family Indoor Practice Center and Sanders Practice Fields, respectively, courtesy of the Gainesville Sun’s Alan Youngblood.

5 storylines to follow as the Oklahoma Sooners get set to open fall camp

As the Oklahoma Sooners get set to open fall camp, here are five storylines to follow ahead of the 2023 season.

You can taste it. We are so close to the start of the 2023 college football season.

Some teams that will play in Week 0 have already started fall practice. For everyone else, such as the Oklahoma Sooners, they start this week. The first event on the horizon is OU football media days on Tuesday.

The summer is filled with official visits and major recruiting events. The Sooners just concluded their summer recruiting efforts with “Sooners under the Stars” and “Party at the Palace.” They’ve put a good foot forward and have already reaped the rewards of their efforts.

But the dead period starts Tuesday, so it’s time for these teams to lock in and get ready for the season.

Oklahoma kicks off fall camp on Thursday and there are a number of storylines to look for. Whether that’s position battles or progress from players from a year ago, we’ll have you covered throughout camp here on Sooners Wire.

So, without further adieu, let’s take a look at the five storylines I’m looking for this fall camp.

Tackle rainy trails in these fall hiking boots for the whole family

Don’t let rain scare you off the hiking trails this fall.

When the rain starts falling, thoughts usually turn to jackets and ponchos. But water dripping from above inevitably means mud accumulating below. Wet and muddy terrain can quickly ruin a fall hike. Slipping and falling on trails, walking in drenched and nasty socks — who needs all that? Smart hikers think ahead and prepare by bringing quality hiking boots. Find the best shoes for you with these reliable options. Handle tricky trails and wet weather with these picks that are sure to keep you happy and your socks dry. Because a dry and cozy hiker is a happy hiker. Remember to pack your favorite waterproof rain jacket, too.

Find the best layers for fall hiking to stay cozy this autumn

Prepare for sweater weather season.

As all hikers know, a beautiful fall morning walk usually starts just a little chilly. But by the time you get to the top of that first big hill, you’re burning up. It takes some planning to maintain a comfortable temperature on an autumn hike. The secret to a safe and happy trek through the woods? Layers light enough to stuff in your backpack or tie around your waist. Subtract them as the day heats up, then add them back as the sun sinks. Here are some of the best layers for fall hiking to keep you cozy and fashionable but not too hot.

Fall camping destinations with dreamy views of nature

Enjoy the most scenic autumn campgrounds.

Want to break out your camping gear before the weather turns cold? Fall might be your last chance to enjoy a trip outdoors this year, so make sure to plan ahead. As autumn ushers in cooler temperatures and stunning scenery, outdoors enthusiasts will be searching for the best fall camping destinations. Before choosing a camping site, consider what you want out of your trip. Are you looking for a weekend full of serene nature-gazing? Or would you prefer to spend your day on an adventurous hike? Pick campgrounds that cater to your interests and offer the best seasonal views. If you need some inspiration, check out these seven lovely locations.

This fall foliage map will help you catch the best autumn color

You’ll love this unbe-leaf-ably helpful tool.

Across the United States, fall enthusiasts are planning their leaf-peeping trips. October has arrived, and the race is on to soak up the autumn scenery before winter begins. Up north, many people are already enjoying the season’s most vibrant colors. Meanwhile, the Southeast will have to wait until late October or early November for peak autumnal scenery. If you’ve been wondering when your neck of the woods can expect to see some fall color, check out the 2022 fall foliage map from SmokyMountains.com. This helpful tool features a slider that users can adjust to see when each region of the contiguous U.S. will reach peak color.

A landscape of red, yellow, orange, and green trees.

For ambitious leaf-peepers who want to scope out fall leaves all over the country, this map is an indispensable tool. Another cool part of this resource? You can contribute to it. By submitting a fall foliage report when autumn color graces your neighborhood, you can help make the map more accurate. The short form asks basic questions about what area you’re in, if the leaves there have begun changing color, and how brilliant the colors are.

A forest of think pale trees with orange leaves.

Curious minds can peruse SmokyMountains.com for more information on why leaves change color in the fall. The map and page are also great resources for teachers seeking seasonal lesson plan ideas. Kids in the classroom will love the site’s free print-out autumn coloring book, too.

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See why Vermont has the country’s most gorgeous fall foliage

Fall in love with the colorful leaves.

Now that the Autumn Equinox has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s time to embrace the oncoming fall foliage. As vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges begin gracing trees across the United States, dedicated leaf-peepers will start traveling to find the country’s best autumn leaves. While many states enjoy spectacular fall scenery, one state in particular is known for its out-of-this-world seasonal landscapes. Vermont, that charming little East Coast state between New York and New Hampshire, earns its popularity as a top leaf-peeping spot by offering incomparable views. While countless online travel guides celebrate Vermont’s fall foliage, people who have never visited the state may wonder what all the excitement is about. Wonder no more with this gallery that shows off some of Vermont’s most dazzling fall color.

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Try these fall outdoor activities for peak autumn vibes

Orange you glad fall is on the way?

Now that the hottest days of summer have passed, it’s time to break out the sweaters and get outside for fall. As colorful foliage and cool temperatures settle in, outdoor adventurers can enjoy the gorgeous scenery only available during autumn. Still, with so many options for outdoor activities, it can be hard to choose what to prioritize this season. While it’s a great time of year to enjoy a variety of hobbies, these five fun fall activities will make your autumn picture perfect. Before the season’s official start arrives, make plans to try everything from apple-picking to leaf-peeping. Here are a few great ways to get outdoors and celebrate fall. 

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