Travel Is Back : Travel Fast, Travel Smart, 10-Minute Travel Tips

135. Best Destinations for October 2024 Road Trips

In this episode of "Travel is Back," Journey Joe Mitchell takes listeners on a virtual fall road trip across some of the most stunning destinations to explore in October 2024. Joe kicks things off with New England’s iconic autumn landscapes, from the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire to the charming town of Stowe, Vermont, complete with apple-picking and breathtaking mountain views. He then ventures to the hidden beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, highlighting the mesmerizing colors of Porcupine Mountains and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Next up is Colorado, where Joe explores the San Juan Skyway, the Million Dollar Highway, and the unforgettable vistas from Telluride’s gondola. Wrapping up, he uncovers the lesser-known fall splendor of California’s Eastern Sierra, including the surreal Mono Lake and the cozy natural hot springs of Mammoth Lakes.

Throughout, Joe reminds listeners that the magic of autumn travel is as much about the journey as the destination, encouraging everyone to find beauty close to home too.

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Broadcast on:: 25 Sep 2024
Audio Format:: other

At Sprouts Farmers Market, we're all about fresh, healthy, and delicious. That's why you'll find the season's best local and organic produce, hand-picked, and waiting for you in the center of our store. Visit your neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market today, where fresh produce is always in season. At Sprouts Farmers Market, we're all about fresh, healthy, and delicious. Step into our bulk department to discover a world of options with hundreds of scoopable bulk bins in grab-and-go favorites. Work from wholesome grains and spices to limited-time goodies like pumpkin apple cashews and butter-toffee peanuts. Plus, buying in bulk means you can get as much or as little as you like for your next recipe or snack attack. Visit your neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market today, or fly for fills every scoop. Caleroga Shark Media (Music) Hey there, road warriors and leaf peepers! It's Journey Joe Mitchell, and you're tuned in to "Travel is Back." Can you feel that crisp, autumn air? It's calling us to hit the open road and soak in the beauty of fall. Today, we're diving deep into the best destinations for your October 2024 adventures. So grab your pumpkin spice latte, crank up the heat, and let's go on a virtual road trip that'll have you itching to pack your bags. First up, we're heading to a classic fall favorite New England. Now, I know what you're thinking, Joe. Isn't that a bit cliché? But trust me, there's a reason why this region tops every autumn travel list. Picture this. You're cruising down the Kankamagas Highway in New Hampshire, windows down, and everywhere you look is an explosion of reds, oranges, and golds. It's like Mother Nature decided to paint the world in warm, cozy colors just for us. I remember one crisp October morning a few years back, I was driving through the White Mountain National Forest. The sun was just peeking through the trees, creating this magical golden glow on the leaves. I pulled over at one of the scenic overlooks, and let me tell you, it was like stepping into a postcard. The valley below was a patchwork quilt of autumn colors, with mist rising from the rivers. It's moments like these that remind you why you travel. But the Kankamagas Highway is just the beginning of your New England adventure. As you wind your way through New Hampshire, make sure to stop in North Conway. This charming town is like fall central. Last time I was there, I stumbled upon this adorable little orchard where you can pick your own apples. There's something so satisfying about plucking a crisp, juicy apple right off the tree. And don't even get me started on their fresh-pressed cider. It's like autumn in a cup. After you've had your fill of apples, head over to the Mount Washington Cog Railway. This historic train takes you to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast. Now I'll be honest, the ride-up can be a bit nerve-racking if you're not a fan of heights. But once you reach the top, the panoramic views of the fall foliage stretching out in every direction will take your breath away. Just remember to bring a warm jacket. It can get chilly up there. As you continue your New England journey, make your way to Stowe, Vermont. This picturesque town looks like it's straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. The white church steeple peeking out above the colorful trees, covered bridges spanning babbling brooks. It's almost too perfect to be real, but trust me, it is. While you're in Stowe, take a drive up the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road. It's a narrow, winding road that takes you to the summit of Vermont's highest peak. The drive itself is an adventure, but the views from the top? Absolutely spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way to New Hampshire's White Mountains and even catch a glimpse of New York's Adirondacks. Now, if you're anything like me, all this leaf peeping is bound to work up an appetite. That's where the Ben and Jerry's factory comes in. Yes, you heard me right. The iconic ice cream brand was born right here in Vermont. Take a tour of the factory, learn about the ice cream making process, and of course indulge in a scoop or two. My personal recommendation, the chunky monkey, there's something about those banana and walnut flavors that just scream fall to me. But hey, maybe you're looking for something a little off the beaten path. Well, let me tell you about a hidden gem I discovered last fall, Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Now, this place might not be on everyone's radar, but that's part of its charm. Imagine driving along the Copper Country Trail National Byway, surrounded by forests ablaze with color, the air tinged with the scent of pine and crisp lake water. One of my favorite memories from the UP was hiking in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. There's this trail that leads to a series of waterfalls, each one more beautiful than the last. The lake of the clouds overlook is a must visit spot. Picture this, you're standing on a rocky outcrop, gazing down at a pristine lake surrounded by a sea of red and gold trees, the sound of rushing water, the crunch of leaves under your feet, and the vibrant colors all around, it's like nature's own symphony. While you're in the UP, make sure to visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This stretch of Lake Superior coastline is stunning any time of year, but in autumn, it's downright magical. Take a boat tour along the shoreline to see the colorful sandstone cliffs up close. The way the fall colors contrast with the turquoise water and the red and orange rocks, it's like someone spilled a giant paint set across the landscape. And here's a little secret. If you time your visit right, you might catch the northern lights. That's right, you don't have to go all the way to Iceland to see this natural light show. I'll never forget the night I spent on the shores of Lake Superior, watching the green and purple lights dance across the sky, reflecting off the water. It was one of those pinch me moments that make you realize how incredible our world really is. Before you leave the UP, make sure to stop in Marquette. This charming lakeside town is home to some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Grab a pasty, that's a kind of meat pie for those not in the know. Trust me, after a day of hiking and exploring, nothing hits the spot quite like this UP delicacy. Then, take a stroll along the Lake Superior shore as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues that rival the fall foliage. At Sprouts Farmers Market, we're all about fresh, healthy, and delicious. That's why you'll find the season's best local and organic produce, handpicked, and waiting for you in the center of our store. Visit your neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market today, where fresh produce is always in season. At Sprouts Farmers Market, we're all about fresh, healthy, and delicious. Step into our bulk department to discover a world of options with hundreds of scoopable bulk bins in grab-and-go favorites. From wholesome grains and spices to limited-time goodies like pumpkin apple cashews and butter-toffee peanuts. Plus, buying in bulk means you can get as much or as little as you like for your next recipe or snack attack. Visit your neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market today, or fly for fills every scoop. At Sprouts Farmers Market, we're all about fresh, healthy, and delicious. That's why you'll find the season's best organic produce, handpicked, and waiting for you in the center of our store. We bring in local farm-fresh fruits and veggies bursting with flavor. Come on in to discover everyday favorites, like juicy berries and crisp greens, but also unique peak season varieties, like moon drop or cotton candy grapes. Visit your neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market today, where fresh produce is always in season. Now, let's head west to Colorado's Rocky Mountains. This is where things get really interesting. You've got the golden aspens doing their thing, right? But then you look up and BAM! Snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. It's like winter and fall decided to have a party together, and we're all invited. I'll never forget driving the San Juan Skyway. It's this 236-mile loop that takes you through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you'll ever see. One minute you're winding through a tunnel of golden aspens, and the next you're gazing out at red-rock canyons. The stretch between Urey and Silverton, known as the Million Dollar Highway, is particularly spectacular. Fair warning. It's not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of the mountains with some pretty steep drop-offs. But the views? Absolutely worth it. As you're making your way along the Skyway, make sure to stop and tell your ride. This little town is like stepping back in time, with its Victorian-era buildings all dolled up in fall decorations. But here's a pro tip. Take the free gondola ride up the mountain. As you rise above the town, you get this bird's-eye view of the whole valley. The patchwork of autumn colors below, framed by those majestic peaks, it's enough to make you believe in magic. While you're in tell-your-ride, treat yourself to a meal at all-red's restaurant. It's located at the top of the gondola, and the views are just as spectacular as the food. I had a locally sourced elk tenderloin there once that was so good, I still dream about it. Pair it with a glass of Colorado wine. Yes, they make wine in Colorado. And you've got yourself a meal to remember. Now, if you're up for a bit of a detour, head over to Mesa Verde National Park. It's a bit of a drive from tell-your-ride, but trust me, it's worth it. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the best-preserved ancestral Pueblo and cliff dwellings in the country. As you explore these ancient homes carved into the cliffside, you can't help but feel a connection to the people who lived here centuries ago. And in the fall, the way the changing leaves contrast with the red rocks is simply stunning. Before we leave Colorado, we have to talk about Rocky Mountain National Park. Now, October can be a bit of a gamble here. You might get perfect fall weather, or you might get an early snowfall. But either way, it's magical. The elk are in their rutting season, which means you're likely to hear their eerie bugling echoing through the valleys. It's a sound that'll send shivers down your spine in the best possible way. Take a drive on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States. As you climb above the tree line, you'll feel like you're on top of the world. The tundra plants turn a deep burgundy in the fall, creating a beautiful contrast with the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Just remember to check the road conditions before you go. It can close due to snow as early as October. Now, I know we've been talking a lot about mountains and forests, but let me throw you a curveball. How about California's eastern Sierra? I know California isn't the first place that comes to mind for fall colors, but hear me out. This region is like a best-kept secret among leaf peepers in the know. Last October, I found myself driving the June Lake Loop. It's this 16-mile scenic drive that takes you past four lakes. Each one more beautiful than the last. The aspen groves here turn this brilliant gold, and when they reflect in the crystal-clear water of the lakes, well, let's just say my camera got quite a workout that day. Make sure to stop at Silver Lake. There's a little resort there called Silver Lake Resort that serves up some mean pancakes. Picture this. You're sitting on the deck, steaming cup of coffee in hand, watching the sun rise over the lake, turning the aspens into columns of gold. It's one of those moments that makes you glad to be alive. As you continue south, you'll come to Mammoth Lakes. Now, most people think of this place as a winter ski destination, but let me tell you, it's just as spectacular in the fall. Take the gondola up to the top of Mammoth Mountain. The views of the eastern Sierra with its mix of granite peaks and golden valleys will leave you speechless, but the real showstopper? Mono Lake. Now, this place looks like it belongs on another planet. You've got these otherworldly limestone formations called Tufa Towers rising out of the water. And when you catch them at sunset with the fall colors in the background, it's like someone turned the saturation up to 11 on reality. Take a kayak tour of the lake to get up close and personal with the Tufa Towers. The water is so salty that you float effortlessly, making it easy even for beginners. As you paddle around, keep an eye out for the millions of migratory birds that use Mono Lake as a crucial stop on their journey south. The sight of thousands of phalloropes taking flight at once, their wings catching the golden hour light, is something I'll never forget. Before you leave the eastern Sierra, make sure to take a soak in one of the many natural hot springs in the area. There's nothing quite like sitting in a steaming pool, surrounded by the crisp fall air and the smell of sage, gazing up at the star-filled sky. It's the perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. As we wrap up our virtual road trip, I want to remind you that sometimes the best adventures are right in your backyard. Maybe it's a nearby state park you've never explored, or a small town just an hour's drive away. The spirit of adventure isn't about how far you go, but about keeping your eyes and heart open to the wonders around you. This fall, challenge yourself to see your local area with fresh eyes. That tree-lined street you drive down every day, it might just turn into a golden tunnel come October. That hiking trail you've been meaning to check out, it could lead you to breathtaking views of the autumn landscape. The possibilities are endless when you approach the world with curiosity and wonder. And hey, speaking of wonders, here's one for your ears. You can enjoy all these episodes without any commercial interruptions. That's right, unlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caleroga Shark Media. Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle-free. For Apple users, just hit the banner on your Apple Podcasts app. And for Spotify or other players, head over to caleroga.com/plus. No plugins needed. So, road trippers, where will your October adventures take you? Whether it's leaf peeping in New England, chasing waterfalls in Michigan's UP, exploring ancient dwellings in Colorado, or discovering hidden gems in California's eastern Sierra Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. This is Journey Joe Mitchell signing off. Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and happy travels. If you're listening to travel is back, you must love traveling as much as I do. We have deals for you that'll make your next adventure even more exciting and affordable. Whether you're planning a trip to a bustling city, a tranquil beach, or somewhere in between, we've got you covered. Some of the popular destinations in our travel recommendations and deals include Orlando, Seattle, Vancouver, Palm Springs, and Montreal. But that's just the beginning. To check out all of our exclusive offers and insider tips, head to vietter.com/partner-shop/travelisback. 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