The New England states aren’t the only ones to put on a kaleidoscope of color to be enjoyed in the fall. A great hidden gem lies in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where the trees burst with fiery reds, golden yellows and bold oranges that rival the splendors of the east coast. And leaf-peepers don’t have to contend with the same kinds of crowds found in the Northeast. So prepare to enjoy the crisp days and colors of the season by planning your fall getaway to nearby recreation and resort destination Lake Geneva. Here are some of the many ways enjoy the season.
Gentle Stroll or Rustic Hike
Walk a piece of the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path and take in the colors with close up views of the multi-million dollar estates with beautiful landscaping built by wealthy Chicagoans after the Great Chicago Fire. For a more rustic hike, head to the Duck Lake Nature Area trail that follows the southern side of Lake Como between Lake Geneva and Como, Wisconsin. Scenery abounds along the former rail bed restricted to hikers only.
Boat Cruise
Hop aboard one of the Lake Geneva Cruise Line boats. The Cruise Line offers a variety of bay and lake cruises with views of the magnificent estates that ring the lake and the season’s backdrop of vibrant colors.
Bike or Scooter
Head to the Adventure Center at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa (bike rental) or Lake Geneva Canopy Tours (bring your own bike) for biking. Both locations offer about 9 miles of trails ranging from beginner to expert. Or consider a scooter rental or tour offered by Scoot Jockeys. The Rustic Roads, easily accessed via Sheridan Springs Road and Spring Valley Road, are perfect for scooters.
Zipline or Hot Air Balloon Ride
Fly high with Lake Geneva Canopy Tours or Aerial Adventures for ziplining among the treetops or climb aboard a hot air balloon with Lake Geneva Balloon Company for a ride over the scenic Lake Geneva area.
Go to a Fall Festival
Lake Geneva’s Oktoberfest (October 7 and 8) is expanded this year with beer and food, entertainment, a craft fair and plenty of family fun activities. Lake Lawn Resort’s Fall Family Festival (October 6 – 9) and Lake Geneva Canopy Tours Pumpkin Drop & Fall Festival (October 28 and 29) both offer fall themed food, music and activities. Also consider the Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago, WI. Their Harvest Festival runs Saturday and Sunday’s September 9 through October 22, and offers pick-your-own pumpkins and apples, train rides, pony rides and hayrides. Their world-famous Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag is a must. Autumn on the Farms at Old World Wisconsin allows visitors to celebrate the 19th-century harvest season by helping farm families and villagers bring in their crops, stock the larder and put up the produce for winter!
For more information or help planning your visit, call (800) 345-1020, go to www.visitlakegeneva.com or download the VISIT Lake Geneva app.
