Cascade Loop
Washington

Washington's Cascade Loop's deciduous trees turn into sublime shades of yellows and golds in the fall, complementing the surrounding lush mountain lakes and conifers. Washington also happens to be the country's top apple-growing state, and fall is the harvest season.

The route: The 400-mile loop leads from north Seattle into the North Cascades, and across the desert country of central Washington.

Roadside attractions: Purchase some tulip bulbs in Skagit Valley, just north of Seattle. The area is the largest producer of tulip bulbs in the U.S., and fall is the time to plant them. In October, stop in the faux-Bavarian village of Leavenworth for the city's annual Oktoberfest, featuring music, dancing and, or course, beer.

Image courtesy Washington State Tourism

Visit www.cascadeloop.com for more information.