I concluded the first part of this entry suggesting that you check out some of our archived stories for ideas on Fall foliage day trips.  However, I want to add a few more because they are just plain interesting.

On the recent King County Farm Tour, we toured of several farms in Enumclaw and decided to find a scenic route back to Seattle.  Looking at a map, we opted to take SR 169.  However, just miles into this route we saw a sign for the Green River Gorge.  Not wanting to miss anything, we followed the signs which took us on a beautiful winding road to the one lane Franklin Bridge.  Here, the Green River flows several hundred feet below walled by steep cliffs on both sides.  The view is spectacular.  Unfortunately, you can only see this from the car as there is no parking in the immediate vicinity of the bridge.  Subsequent investigation revealed that there is access.

Continuing past the bridge will deliver you to Black Diamond.  Continuing on to Maple Valley, we decided to stop by Lake Wilderness Arboretum.   Admittedly, this was just a whim based on our car map.  However, this was another great stop.  Located in Maple Valley, this arboretum focuses on Northwest native plants and features one of the largest collections of Western Azalea.  Even at this time of year, the ground was ablaze with hardy cyclamen.  This park with its substantial lake ringed with picnic tables, is a great place to visit.  The arboretum is quite impressive.   In about two weeks the route we followed, Enumclaw to Maple Valley, should be in peak color.

And finally, one drive that is sure to be spectacular is Hwy 101 between Quilcene and Brinnon.  We’ve previously written about day trips to this area.  However, with all of the vistas and waterfalls, it’s sure to be spectacular at this time of year.

Got any suggestions?  Let’s hear ‘em.