Autumn Escapes: 5 Extraordinary Fall Road Trips

TURNER recently teamed up with Airstream, the manufacturer behind the iconic “silver bullet” Airstream® travel trailer and the longest-tenured recreational vehicle manufacturer in the world. Of course, this extraordinary brand and extraordinary road trips are virtually synonymous. So naturally, we’re looking for inspiration across the U.S. for our next autumn adventure on the open road.

The Lakes Region Loop (New Hampshire)

The 97-mile Lakes Region Loop takes you through some of New Hampshire's most charming lakeside towns, where you can witness stunning fall foliage reflected in the tranquil waters of the state's pristine lakes. Stretch your legs with a hike up to the summit of Mt. Major for panoramas of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountain ranges or stop in at Ellacoya State Park for a picnic. For family fun, stop in Weirs Beach, offering amusement parks, arcades and shopping.

Cherokee Foothills (South Carolina)

Named after the Native Americans who once called the South Carolina foothills home, the Cherokee Foothills SC 11 route takes road-trippers 118 miles along the base of the majestic Blue Ridge escarpment. In the fall, the views of the mountains ablaze in color are positively breathtaking. Your SC road trip will also take you to Table Rock State Park, home to its namesake 3,100-foot-tall rock. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can climb to the top for some seriously stunning panoramas.

Door County (Wisconsin)

Wisconsin's Door County is a hidden Midwestern gem, especially in the fall. Known for its stunning coastal landscapes along Lake Michigan, this road trip offers a unique blend of water views and autumn foliage. Explore charming villages like Ephraim and Fish Creek, where you can sample local apple cider and enjoy freshly baked pies. Don't forget to hike the Peninsula State Park for incredible vistas and serene woodlands.

Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee)

For a laid-back and historical road trip, head to Tennessee and explore the Natchez Trace Parkway. This 444-mile scenic byway is steeped in history, with plenty of opportunities to learn about Native American heritage and early American settlers. During the fall season, the parkway is draped in rich, fiery colors, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely drives and picnics. Tip: Extend your Natchez road trip into Tupelo, Mississippi, a charming southern town that just happens to be the birthplace of Elvis Presley himself.

Trail Ridge Road (Estes Park, Colorado)

As you drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and golden aspen groves. The views are elevated, to say the least — Trail Ridge climbs to 12,000 feet above sea level. Don’t forget to explore the charming town of Estes Park itself, which comes alive with seasonal festivals, quaint shops and cozy cafes. And if you’re a Halloween fanatic, make sure to stop in at the Stanley Hotel, which served as the chilling inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. The hotel embraces the legacy during the spooky season with an array of fun events.