10 Places to Leaf-Peep on the Cheap

The return of the pumpkin-spice latte is one symbol of the changing seasons. Fall colors are another, and leaf-peeping is an autumn tradition enjoyed by many.

One way to avoid the high cost and crowds of visiting the most colorful locations is to avoid them altogether, heading instead to less popular alternatives where hotel rates are lower, tour buses are scarce and the colors are equally as magnificent.

Try some of these off-the-beaten-path and inexpensive leaf-peeping destinations.

Quebec is an ideal location for leaf-peeping on the cheap for one simple reason-your dollar will stretch a lot farther heading to Canada.

Exploring the 62-mile-long Saguenay fjord, located north of Quebec City, is a unique way to enjoy the country's fall foliage. The region is home to unique accommodation options, beautiful biking trails, adventurous activities such as via ferreta and, of course, a fjord waiting to be explored.

Experience the colors of autumn from the water. The Kootenay Lake Region in Nelson, B.C., comes alive with brilliant hues as the fall months take hold in the region but while the weather is still enjoyable, visitors can head out onto the lake for kayaking and paddleboarding or just relax and hang out on the dock.

Chattanooga is a scenic city already but, in the autumn months, it transforms into a colorful wonderland. Visitors can enjoy the brilliant displays on Segway tours, boat rides, and on train rides on the Tennessee Valley Railroad or Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. But there is plenty to explore on foot or by car for no cost at all.

Destinations in the West are also far lesser-known than those in the east but are equally as beautiful. In places such as Telluride, Colorado, the summer tourism season has ended and the winter is not yet in view, meaning travelers can take advantage of fall savings.

Visitors can take guided 4x4 tours to Tomboy Basin and Imogene Pass and tour the scenic San Juan Skyway or just follow the Telluride or Ridge trails for outstanding views.

California may be known as the golden state in part for its sunny summer days, but fall brings an even deeper golden hue.

Head to the hidden gem of the Shasta Cascade region in the state's northeast corner. Visitors will find Mount Shasta, Lassen Peak, Shasta Lake, six national forests, 11 state and national parks and more.

Visitors can take advantage of numerous campsites and a fall foliage season that often outlasts other regions.

Head to Oregon wine country for an alternative to the busy harvest season in the West's more popular wine-tasting regions. As the grape harvest begins to unfold, the green hills turn golden and the wine begins flowing.

Time your visit right, traveling to Oregon between late-September and mid-October.

Aspen trees dot the Sangre de Cristo mountainsides in deep golden hues in Taos, New Mexico, making it a splendid choice for fall travelers.

For those looking for an affordable leaf-peeping activity, a drive along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway won't cost a thing. The 85-mile circular route loops through Taos, Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire and back to Taos.

The Blue Ridge Mountains are among those popular destinations that draw large crowds during leaf-peeping season. Fall color experts predict leaves will change color a little later and deep reds will be among the colors. To avoid high prices and large crowds, book earlier or later in the season when colors are not at their peak.

For the classic New England leaf-peeping experience head to Vermont where charming, cozy B&Bs await. The central and southern regions of the state are the most popular with fall foliage enthusiasts, including the Lake Champlain Islands, regions near Burlington and in the Green Mountains.

Rates for accommodations hover around $160.