Four Autumn Activities for Fitness and Foliage

Fall may mean cooler weather, but there are several outdoor activities that are perfect for enjoying the crisp air and fall foliage views.

Hiking

Cooler temps and fewer pesky bugs make hiking in fall ideal. It’s even better against a backdrop of fall foliage. Hiking is a good cardio workout – you’ll use abdominal muscles as well. A 155-pound person hiking for 30 minutes will burn about 223 calories.

Where: White Mountains, New Hampshire

Hundreds of miles of trails range from easy to strenuous. All have excellent views of the region’s valleys and forests.

“The different zones of vegetation and diversity of trees in the White Mountains make the fall foliage breathtaking,” said Nicky Pizzo, of the Appalachian Mountain Club.

For a family-friendly hike, try Diana’s Baths in North Conway. For a moderate hike, try the Mount Pemigewasset Trail in Lincoln.

Find and book a hotel in the White Mountains, North Conway, N.H., or Franconia Notch.

Biking

Biking is a fun, aerobic activity that strengthens your leg, trunk and abdominal muscles. A 155-pound person biking for 30 minutes at 14 mph will burn about 372 calories.

Find and book a hotel in the White Mountains.

Where: Cape Cod Rail Trail, Massachusetts

After summer tourists leave, the Cape becomes quieter – perfect for a relaxing bike ride along the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail, which stretches 22 miles from South Dennis to South Wellfleet. There are visitor centers, bike rental and repair shops, and picnic areas along the way.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Kayaking and canoeing work the upper body, building muscles in the back, arms, shoulders and chest. You also use abdominal and leg muscles. A 155-pound person kayaking for 30 minutes will burn about 186 calories.

Find and book a hotel on Cape Cod.

Where: Saco River, New Hampshire/Maine

Saco River runs through northeastern New Hampshire and southwestern Maine. All 136 miles will offer scenic views and camping areas nearby. It might be chilly in the fall, but fewer tourists will be about – so layer up and enjoy.

Rock Climbing

In addition to building muscle, rock climbing builds endurance, boosts brain function and increases flexibility. A 155-pound person will burn about 409 calories during a 30-minute ascent, and 298 calories on the way down.

Where: Shawangunk Mountains, New York

If you’re new to rock climbing, first practice on an indoor climbing wall. But if you’re a bit more seasoned, the Shawangunk Mountains – aka The Gunks – provide a great vantage point for fall foliage views. And they’re just 100 miles from New York City.

Consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise.

Where’s your favorite place to do these activities? What other activities do you enjoy doing in the fall? Tell us in the comments below!