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Fall RV Vistas
This fall, American Coach, a luxury RV brand within REV Recreation Group®, a subsidiary of REV Group®, has assembled a collection of 10 majestic and unusual vistas across the United States that pair autumnal foliage with other natural wonders that range from waterfalls and snow-capped mountains to volcanic craters.
Some of the fall vistas are perfect for day trips while others can extend into a long weekend or become a weeks-long vacation.
The fall vistas have been researched in advance but be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation for parks, tours, and other attractions and activities.
For more information, visit americancoach.com.
New River Gorge & Bridge, Glen Jean, WV
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains near Fayetteville is the New River Gorge Bridge – a breath-taking steel arch bridge of 3,030 ft. that spans the New River Gorge. In fact, the bridge is so iconic that it’s pictured on the state’s commemorative quarter. For a picture-perfect spot to capture an image of this impressive structure and the beautiful fall foliage that flanks it, visit the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. For views from the gorge floor looking up at the bridge, take the winding Fayette Station Road that dates back 100 years. The drive delivers sweeping vistas of the river, its bridges, hardwood forests, and
Cuyahoga Valley National Park , OH
forgotten coal mining towns from a bygone era.
Finally, for those who’d like to witness some adventure, there’s Bridge Day. This Oct. 16, the bridge becomes an extreme sports platform when daredevils from near and far come to jump off, zipline down, and rappel from the bridge to New River Gorge below.
RVers can stay overnight at the Stonewall Resort near Roanoke. The resort’s amenities include beautiful lake views, a full-service spa, and golf course.
Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville, GA
The white water of Amicalola Falls cascading over a towering bluff in multiple tiers is a perfect contrast to the fall scenery of the southern Appalachian Mountains that surround it. During October and November, the stunning 729foot Amicalola Falls (the tallest waterfall in Georgia) is framed by vibrant autumn colors. Accessing the falls can be done by climbing more than 600 steps or by vehicle. For those taking a vehicle, park at the top of the falls and take in the
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amazing view of the valley and mountains beyond. Walk down the stairs to a viewing platform for a closer look at the spectacular falls. RVers can stay overnight at the Adventure Lodge of Georgia at Amicalola Falls State Park.
Upper Peninsula, MI
A long weekend or weeklong visit to the unmatched beauty of the Upper Peninsula in Michigan is a fall must. The trip begins by traveling across the awe-inspiring Mackinac Bridge that transports drivers over the legendary Straits of Mackinac. At approximately five miles, it’s the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
After crossing the straights, plan to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This signature stop is known for its: 15 miles of multicolored sandstone cliffs that tower up to 200 feet above Lake Superior; huge sand dunes; unspoiled beaches; picturesque waterfalls; deep forest; and nature trails. The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, and is free. Some of the most spectacular views of the rugged cliffs that line Lake Superior are from the water. Through mid-October, a variety of boat cruises are offered by Pictured Rocks Cruises. For those looking for activity, there are hundreds of miles of trails in the Pictured Rocks area that range from easy to strenuous.
Next, head to Michigan’s northern-most town – tiny Copper Harbor located on the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula. This hamlet of approximately 100 residents is in a valley at the base of Brockway Mountain. The nearly 10-mile Brockway Mountain Drive delivers panoramic views of Lake Superior from more than 700 feet above lake level, along with swell after swell of autumn majesty. Look for freighters slowly passing by and get a birds-eye view of tiny Copper Harbor below. On clear days, Isle Royale, which is approximately 50 miles away, can be seen. Due to its remote location and absence of artificial light from nearby towns, star gazing on the mountain peak is an amazing experience on a crisp fall night.
RVers can stay overnight at the Wilderness Resort near Lac La Belle. Resort amenities include fishing charters, kayaking, mine tours, and more.
For a unique fall vantage point, book a ticket on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. A three-and-a-half hour round trip weaves through Cuyahoga Valley National Park and parallels the rushing Cuyahoga River. Soak up the brilliant sugar maple reds and towering brown oaks along the way. For a bit of exercise, try the Brandywine Gorge Trail and hike up to the 65-foot Brandywine Falls for panoramic views of fall foliage in each direction. The historic Everett Covered Bridge that crosses Furnace Creek is another site within the national park that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a nod to days gone by when more than 2,000 covered bridges were scattered throughout Ohio. Today, the Everett Covered Bridge is the last remaining one in Summit County.
RVers can stay overnight at the luxurious Hearthside Grove Lake Erie RV Resort.