Event: United States

Fall Foliage in Massachusetts

When:	15 Sep - 26 Oct 2008 (annual)
Where:	Massachusetts

Around mid-September when the first winter frosts bite the northern reaches of the US, the autumnal cascade of colour brings a fantastic spectacle of natural beauty to the foliage in Massachusetts.

The legends of the Native Indians of Massachusetts decreed that the red and orange hues of the turning leaves symbolised the killing of the Great Bear of the Heavens while the yellow leaves represented their cooking fires. Western science however gives a less romantic explanation: the reduction of nocturnal temperatures coupled with the warm, sunny days causes trees to produce a corky substance which blocks the flow of water to their leaves. The chlorophyll breaks down as a result, the leaves lose their green hue, and the reddy tones we so associate with autumn come to the fore.

Whatever the reason for it, the natural beauty in acres of trees with their foliage on fire makes Massachusetts a popular destination for a fall break. Finding the trees at their peak is made easier by the regular updates provided by the Massachusettes Office of Tourism and Travel. The autumn season is also a perfect time to find local fairs and festivals, to pick apples and pumpkins for pies and canning, to hike through the woods, take peaceful canoe rides or explore the region by bicycle. Believe it or not, more than 6.5 million people make the annual trip to see the fall foliage so be sure to book your hotel in advance.