Whew, This has turned into a different year that any of us were expecting. To say COVID-19 has changed the world as we knew it would be an understatement. Here in the Northeast/New England region we have HOPEFULLY gotten through the worst of it. I can see signs that the region is beginning to open back up under the "new normal". Since we have now hit July and Foliage season is right around the corner, I thought that some ideas on how we can enjoy the foliage without having to put ourselves under undo risk.

1. Stay local; Look, I, like the rest of us love to travel to different places during the foliage season. This year will be different because we don't know who has the virus and who doesn't. People can have the virus and be spreaders and show no symptoms. The risk is moderate but still there. I would say stay  local. Just travel around your home state. For me that would be Rhode Island. Now Rhode Island does not the mountain ranges that the northern states have but they do have some hills and ledges that can be hiked. I am looking forward to exploring Northern Rhode Island this fall and keeping the Northern states till next year. 

You can also look around the town you live in. See if there are any pockets of foliage near your house. This image was taken about 10-15 minutes from my house on a bike trail

Central PondCentral Pond on the Ten Mile River Greenway Trail 2. Day trips; If the reports are saying that the virus is under control and states have opened up more, I would still be leery. The Virus may be under control but it would still be out there. I would suggest Day trips. That way you can see something different but still sleep in your own bed at night. Day trips for me would be at the maximum, a three hour one way trip. From Rhode Island that would Conway, NH or Portland ME area. Also with a lot of people still out of work or just getting back to work, this will save money. The expenditures would be gas and possibly dinner, depending on how far you go.

3. Not just Foliage; the neat thing about the season is that Foliage is not the only subject that would make interesting photographs. Farm stands with the results of the harvest, scarecrows, pumpkin patches, Halloween decorations, even store windows would make interesting photos. 

4. Eating; Eating in a restaurant is a personal choice. At this time, I would be comfortable but not everyone would. The best advice I could give is bring lunch with you and just go out for supper. That way you save money and limit your exposure. 

These are are some thoughts I've had on the subject. They are my thoughts alone. Please observe the procedures set down in each state you visit. Wear a mask, stay six feet apart, wash your hands and I will see you out there during this Fall. We will get through this together. Just stay six feet away from me and wear a mask. ;)