The Independent Traveler Great Fall Foliage Drives

PENNINGTON, N.J., Sept. 19 -- When the mercury drops and the air is crisp, it's time to say hello to sweaters -- and of course, fall foliage. The Independent Traveler (http://www.independenttraveler.com), an online travel planner, has launched the Fall Foliage Center, offering tools, tips and travel resources for planning scenic drives in the Northeast. Catch the most brilliant local colors when they are likely to arrive, from the most northern parts of Maine to southern Pennsylvania.

Driving is the most popular way to view fall foliage, so you may hit traffic along some routes. The timeline below is based on past leaf-peeping seasons, but many factors can impact the leaves, such as a sudden drop in temperature or a violent storm. Check with the area's tourism bureau for up- to-date foliage reports. For more details on each drive: CLICK HERE.

A great drive starts in Bangor, the gateway to the Bar Harbor Region. A drive from Route 1A to Route 3 brings you to beautiful Acadia National Park, where from the summit of Cadillac Mountain you can be the first to see the sunrise in the Northeast. The lighthouse in Bass Harbor is another highlight not far from Route 3.

First Week in October

Northern New York, northeastern/central Maine, central/southern Vermont and New Hampshire, northern Pennsylvania and western Massachusetts.

A great drive is a loop through Southern Vermont to see the state's legendary fall foliage. The drive starts on Route 7A in Manchester Center and continues along Route 67 to historic Bennington. Don't miss a detour along Route 9 to scenic Somerset Reservoir.

Mid October

Southern/central coast of Maine, central/eastern Massachusetts, northwestern Connecticut, Catskill Region of New York, central Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey and southern Rhode Island.

A great drive takes you through New York's scenic Catskill Mountain Region. The highlight is Lookout Point, with its five-state panoramic view. Follow Route 23A as it winds and climbs through the Catskill Forest Preserve and Katterskill Falls.

Late October

Southern Connecticut, southern Pennsylvania and southern/central New Jersey.

A great drive is a trip through Pennsylvania's Amish and Dutch country for an Old World perspective. You'll see Amish buggies and picturesque farms as you follow Route 772 through Intercourse and Gap. Make sure to have some shoofly pie and shop in some of the local farmer's markets.