Get Ready for Fall

The days are warm. Swimming holes are busy. The last thing on your mind is fall. Well, fall is already showing its settle approach. From the slightly cooler nights here in Indiana to the fall colors already happening high in the Rocky Mountains.

Fall will soon be upon us. Plan your fall shooting activity early. There are some spots in the country that have incredible shooting opportunities. You need to time it right to get the most out of your experience. Fall hits different parts of the country at different times. The “peak” time may only be for one or two weeks. Adding to the difficulty may be the weather. Fall is not always the best time of the year weather wise. You may want to consider some backup dates. Let’s take a look at a few locations to help you get the most out of your experience.

The Weather Channels web site has a Fall Foliage map to help you out.
(http://www.weather.com/maps/activity/fallfoliage/uscurrentfallfoliage_large.html) Most of the year this map is color coded as the leaves being past peak. This map may not be useful to you at first but look again. Even though they may not have current information, it will show you where you can find areas that have fall colors in the lower 48.

Fall in Indiana

The best place, in my book, to view the fall colors in Indiana is in the Hoosier National Forest. My favorite location is in Brown County. This is also easy to get to because it is only an hour south of Indianapolis. This is Indiana’s hill country. Yes, we have hills. A slim arm of the foothills extends out of Kentucky and come within 30 miles of Indianapolis. If you are coming in from the North, I suggest lodging in Nashville, IN. You will not be disappointed. My wife and I have made day trips here during the peak color season and it is beautiful. Because of the hilly terrain, you can find many out of the way places of interest.

Fall on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is simply beautiful. I drove it a few years ago in the fall and it was well worth it. Three words would describe it. Color, color, and color. Make sure you check the National Park Service web site for any road closures. http://www.nps.gov/blri/

Fall in the Rockies.

The Rocky Mountain region is spectacular. Normally the only color change you see are the Aspens turning yellow. What the Rockies’ lack in fall color, they more than make up in their grandeur. Blue skies, snow covered peaks, and the yellow and green blankets along their base make the Rockies an inspiring location for photography.

Remember to plan early this year. Especially plan early if you are flying. With the reduced flights and nickel-and-dime fee structure, you need to buy tickets early and plan what you are taking carefully.