Fall: With summer in full swing, the idea of Fall seems like a distant memory but, it’s closer than you think. The cool fall weather changes Maine’s landscape from a lush green summer playground to a kaleidoscope of red and golden hues. The fall leaf season usually peaks in mid October and with so many leaf peepers heading to Maine for the show, now is the time to make your plans especially if you want to make a weekend of it. Many people like to take Columbus Day weekend and turn it into long weekend of enjoying the scenery. The Western Mountains in Maine come alive with a blaze of red, orange, yellow and purple leaves during this time of year, making Maine a top destination spot for leaf peepers. If you get on the Rangley Lakes Scenic By-Way which begins in Byron on Route 17 you will find the perfect view of all the colors with the lakes in background. Rangley has some great places to stay for the weekend like the Niboban Camps on Rangley Lake. These private cabins right on the banks of the lake offer a quiet place for you to enjoy the sounds of the loons and the views of the mountains ablaze with color. If you need a place to eat, stop in at the Parkside and Main Restaurant is right on the main drag in the heart of Rangley. They have a great outside deck for you to sit and enjoy the reflection of the fall colors on the lake. The food is simple and good served in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Another fun way to enjoy the fall foliage is taking a 5 day bicycle tour which starts and finishes in Portland. Traveling roughly 45 miles per day, you will travel from Portland to Sebago Lake, to China Lake, down the coast to Rockland and back to Portland. Along the way you will see some of the best foliage spots in Maine so be sure to bring your camera to capture the memories of your tour. Maine is one of the prettiest states, especially in the fall, when the landscape comes alive!