Summer has passed and now it is time to shift into the autumn mode. How fortunate we are to experience the crisp, fall season. Now is a great time to take a drive through the country and enjoy the beautiful fall colors.

If you don’t have a full weekend, consider a day trip. Pack up the family or go with a friend and enjoy the colors as you drive along the woodlands.

Not sure when the leaf colors are peaking in your area? No problem. Check out the following fall color report websites which will update the color changes throughout your state.

In Wisconsin, the fall report website is travelwisconsin.com. This site not only keeps you updated with the leaf color changes in your area, but also has a listing of restaurants and hotels along the way.

If you live in the Minnesota area, check out dnr.state.mn.us/fall_colors.com for updates in your area. This site also has information about different recreations within the state parks such as camping, hiking trails and nature areas. You can even pick up license/permits if you are interested in hunting. Feel free to upload your fall pictures to their site.

In the New York area, 9WSYR.com posts a weekly fall foliage report and forecast that is contributed by the New York Tourism Department. This site has a weekly descriptive fall report of many areas in New York with detailed information as to the status of each area.

Ohio has a neat website, ohiodnr.com that has not only fall color reports, but events that will put you right in the great outdoors and give you a chance to enjoy the colors. Whether you want to go on a hayride, camp outside, or enjoy a bonfire and cookout, the information is there for you at this site.

If you want a website that covers the whole country, take a look at LeafPeepers.com. This site has fall foliage reports for all areas around the country. It’s a great site for those who are planning to travel a distance or simply want to check out the other states foliage.

If you go on a road trip, don’t forget to bring home a few of your favorite leaves. Your local craft store should have some sealant spray to preserve them. You could also seal them between two pieces of wax paper and then have them framed to remember this trip.

No matter where you go, you will certainly enjoy a variety of fall colors and leave types on your drive. So sit back, relax, and enjoy what this season has to offer.