If there’s one thing I love about fall above all others (and believe me, it’s a long list), it’s the annual arrival of the beautiful fall colors provided by the changing of the leaves.  Vibrant yellows, brilliant oranges, fiery reds, and every shade in between dot the local mountains and landscapes.

For me, the autumn season just isn’t complete without a leisurely drive into the Appalachian Mountains that cross Maryland’s western edge.  Traversing Route 70, past the town of Hancock, then along Route 68 towards Cumberland, Frostburg, and beyond will bring any traveler an up-close-and-personal  look at the rugged and colorful landscapes that Western Maryland has to offer.

I usually make it a point (read “excuse”) to stop at Hilltop Fruit Market in Grantsville (just west of Frostburg) so that I can grab a bag of pick-n-mix candies from their huge assortment, which makes the drive home ever sweeter.

If driving isn’t your thing, you can also see the fall colors by train on the “Fall Foliage Experience” offered up by the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (but this popular trip fills up fast, so good luck getting tickets).

If you’re not in my neck of the woods, use the charts and maps provided on the 2018 Fall Foliage Prediction Map to determine when “peak” season is for leaf viewing in your area (for me, it’s the weekend of October 22^nd this year).

No matter how you enjoy it – get out and take in the sights that Mother Nature has to offer this fall season!