Best leaf-peeping in Maryland? (Frederick, Hagerstown: house, park, places to see)

[HandsUpThumbsDown]

Hi folks, I know it's hot as blazes but I'm anxiously awaiting the temperatures to cool and the leaves to change. Where are your favorite places to see the changing colors in Maryland? Are there any good fall/harvest festivals that correspond?

[htownterp]

Deep Creek Lake has something in the fall, I think it's called Autumn Glory or something like that. Leaves are really, really pretty up there. I can leave my house here in Hagerstown, when most of the leaves are still green on the trees, and in an hour or so you hit the higher elevations and it looks like a postcard of color. They are a good few weeks to a month ahead of us, and I can't think of a better place to go.

Thurmont also has a fall celebration that I have been to that is nice, but the leaf peeping just doesn't compare to Garrett County. My favorite local drive is MD 77 from Smithsburg to Thurmont, going past Cunningham Falls. Awesome in the fall when the leaves are changing, and we can make a day of it with a trip to Catoctin Park or the waterfall.

[Steelers10]

Originally Posted by HandsUpThumbsDown

Hi folks, I know it's hot as blazes but I'm anxiously awaiting the temperatures to cool and the leaves to change. Where are your favorite places to see the changing colors in Maryland? Are there any good fall/harvest festivals that correspond?

Driving out toward Cumberland in early October seems to be a favorite to watch fall colors. it is also one of the earlier places where you can see the changing of the leaves. Also, Frederick's Oktoberfest in the first week of October is quite festive; Frederick has a very deep German heritage and it is reflected in the fair.

[Mom21]

I know you said Maryland but I don't think anything compares to Skyline Drive in Front Royal, Va! It's simply breathtaking, and the drive on the way there is quite colorful as well. I'm all the way in Southern Maryland and it's an after church trip for me so it's not that far.