California

The only thing better than Yosemite in summer is a visit to the National Park in fall. Begin in Merced, Calif., gateway to the Park, for an 80-mile drive one-way along Highway 140. In Mariposa, the halfway point, stop at the Chappell Winery or visit the antiques shops downtown before continuing to Yosemite Village. The highway follows the original route along the Yosemite Parkway, established in 1926, which travelers followed to the valley floor. For prime fall color, watch for the dogwood trees mixed in with the evergreens throughout the park.

If you want someone else to do the driving, leave your car in Merced and hop on the bus run by the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System.