Leaf-Peeping Fall Tourists Forecast to Drive Record Economic Impact

Fall Foliage Provides a Boost to Local Economies

As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, leaf-peeping tourists are preparing to embark on their annual pilgrimages to witness the breathtaking beauty of autumn. This year, experts predict that leaf-peeping tourists will generate a record-breaking economic impact, as the desire for outdoor recreation and stunning scenery continues to grow.

According to the National Park Service, over 10 million people visit national parks each year specifically to view fall foliage. These visitors spend an estimated $1.8 billion on lodging, food, souvenirs, and other expenses, providing a substantial boost to local economies.

Destinations Expecting Large Crowds

Some of the most popular leaf-peeping destinations in the United States include:

• New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island)
• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)
• The Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia, North Carolina)
• The Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
• The Catskill Mountains (New York)
• The Pocono Mountains (Pennsylvania)

These destinations are known for their spectacular fall foliage, as well as their charming small towns and scenic drives.

Planning Your Leaf-Peeping Trip

To make the most of your leaf-peeping trip, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are a few tips:

1. Check the fall foliage forecast. This will help you determine when the leaves will be at their peak in your desired destination.
2. Book your accommodations in advance. Leaf-peeping season is a popular time to travel, so it’s important to book your hotel, cabin, or campground well in advance.
3. Plan your itinerary. Decide which leaf-peeping destinations you want to visit and how much time you want to spend at each one.
4. Take plenty of photos. Capture the beauty of the fall foliage for memories that will last a lifetime.
5. Be prepared for crowds. Leaf-peeping season is a busy time, so be prepared for crowds at popular destinations.

Economic Impact of Leaf-Peeping

The economic impact of leaf-peeping tourism is significant. A recent study by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics found that leaf-peeping tourists spent an estimated $10.8 billion on their trips in 2021. This spending supported over 100,000 jobs and generated over $1.8 billion in tax revenue.

Benefits of Leaf-Peeping

In addition to the economic benefits, leaf-peeping also provides a number of benefits to tourists. These benefits include:

• Relaxation and stress relief. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mental health.
• Physical activity. Leaf-peeping often involves hiking, biking, or driving through scenic areas, which provides opportunities for physical activity.
• Educational opportunities. Leaf-peeping can be a great way to learn about the natural world, including the different types of trees and the science behind fall foliage.
• Cultural experiences. Many leaf-peeping destinations also offer cultural experiences, such as visiting historical sites or attending festivals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When planning your leaf-peeping trip, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Going at the wrong time. The timing of your trip is critical for seeing the best fall foliage. Do your research and check the fall foliage forecast before you go.
• Not being prepared for crowds. Leaf-peeping season is a popular time to travel, so be prepared for crowds at popular destinations.
• Not taking precautions for safety. Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions for safety, especially if you are hiking or driving in remote areas.

How to Plan a Leaf-Peeping Trip

To plan a successful leaf-peeping trip, follow these steps:

1. Choose your destination. The first step is to choose your leaf-peeping destination. Consider the type of scenery you want to see, the time of year you want to go, and your budget.
2. Book your accommodations. Once you have chosen your destination, book your hotel, cabin, or campground well in advance.
3. Plan your itinerary. Decide which leaf-peeping destinations you want to visit and how much time you want to spend at each one.
4. Pack for the weather. Fall weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of conditions.
5. Bring plenty of snacks and drinks. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors, so be sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep you energized.
6. Be prepared for crowds. Leaf-peeping season is a popular time to travel, so be prepared for crowds at popular destinations.
7. Take your time and enjoy the scenery. Leaf-peeping is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Don’t rush your trip and take the time to appreciate the scenery.

Additional Tips for Leaf-Peeping Tourists

In addition to the tips above, here are a few more tips for leaf-peeping tourists:

• Be respectful of the environment. Leave No Trace principles by packing out what you pack in, staying on trails, and respecting wildlife.
• Support local businesses. When you’re leaf-peeping, support local businesses by eating at local restaurants, staying at local hotels, and buying souvenirs from local shops.
• Share your experiences. After your leaf-peeping trip, share your experiences with others by posting photos and videos on social media. You can also write a blog post or article about your trip to help others plan their own leaf-peeping adventures.

Appendix

Table 1: Top Leaf-Peeping Destinations in the United States

Table 2: Economic Impact of Leaf-Peeping Tourism

Table 3: Benefits of Leaf-Peeping

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Leaf-Peeping Trip