October is here, and in some parts of the country, that means fall colors. In others, it just means slightly cooler weather before the rainy season. Either way, October is regarded as one of the best times to travel because of its pleasantly moderate temperatures and fewer tourists. If you’ve got any unused vacation time as you head into Q4, October might be a great month to take a road trip…and here are a few great ideas:

California 1

This 656 mile route begins in Orange County, just south of Los Angeles, and travels along the Pacific Coast to end in the oceanside redwood forests of Mendocino County. Along the way you’ll pass through Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay, and San Francisco. One of the most memorable parts is the stretch running through Big Sur, where you’ll pass over some historic arched bridges along a stunning coastline. Along the way, there are interesting historic missions built by the Spanish to explore.

Utah 12

The official name of this 123 mile long route is A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway. That’s probably how you’ll feel as you travel through the amazing landscape of the southwest, with its rocky red landscape interspersed with greenery. Memorable points include Bryce Canyon National Park, with its very distinctive geological features. If you can time your drive toward the end of the day, you’ll be treated to a desert sunset washed in a wide pallet of colors like purple, orange, and blue.

Massachusetts 6A

The Old King’s Highway, as this 62 mile stretch of road is called, travels along Cape Cod Bay from Sandwich to Provincetown. If you drive in the fall, you’ll enjoy the splendid array of fall foliage for which New England is famous—red, yellow, and orange leaves. Along the way you’ll enjoy historic towns by the water, great seafood, and charming bed and breakfasts. Short detours along the way will bring you to some iconic lighthouses, such as the red and white tower of the Nauset lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Route 66

This is one of the most iconic drives in America, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. You’ll need more than a weekend to travel along its 2,448 miles, also known as the Main Street of America. This road is no longer a major artery to the West Coast, but it has seen a resurgence in recent years due in part to its historical value. Along the way you’ll see some ghost towns and small towns that remain, with perhaps no more than a retro looking gas station or drive in. There are also some fun curiosities like the Wigwam Motel, Cadillac Ranch, and The Blue Whale.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The 469 miles of Blue Ridge Parkway begins in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, and ends in Nashville, North Carolina. This road has more visitors than any other passing through a National Park, and it’s easy to see why. The stretch known as Skyline Drive is particularly beautiful in the fall. Don’t miss a stop to walk under the 215 foot high tunnel of Natural Bridge, or catch an outdoor concert at the Blue Ridge Music Center. Stay overnight at the Biltmore Estate, which is modeled after the chateaux of the Loire Valley in France.

What are your plans for 2023?

Road trips are a great time for reflecting on life between the scenery. What are your plans after Q4? Are you staying in the same place, or looking for a better opportunity? Perhaps you’re a manager looking to expand or replenish your team. Whatever the case may be, I can help you out. With almost four decades of experience in the software sales industry, I am well connected with both managers and an extensive pool of pre-vetted talent. Drop me an email at mike@michaeblair.com and let me know what you’re thinking about for next year!