Fall is my favorite time of year!
I am well aware that I add to the pre-existing stereotype, but it's the truth. I'm certain that many of you are rolling your eyes right now, while others are comforted as I express your own sentiments. The fall season means relief from the summer heat, it smells like pumpkins and cinnamon, and it means we can wear boots and cardigans once again.
Some military families have to travel home or go on vacation to appreciate the joys of fall, hear leaves crunching beneath our feet, or take in the beautiful hues of trees changing. While other, more fortunate people have been stationed in ideal fall locations.
Wherever you're stationed, come along and take a fall tour across the country near these three military installations and then see what else they each have to offer!
1) Fort Drum, New York
You don't have to go far to enjoy this glorious season if you're stationed in upstate New York at the behemoth Army post, Fort Drum.
via U.S. Army Environmental Command Flickr
Military Presence
According to the official site, “Fort Drum, [is] home of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), located in northern New York's picturesque North Country. The installation is in the middle of one of the most historically unique and geographically beautiful areas of the United States.”
It's located just 30 miles from the Canadian border, 30 miles East of Lake Ontario, and slightly west of the Adirondack Mountains, as well as numerous state forests.
Things to Do
Fort Drum has more to offer than beautiful scenery. When you get to town, check out Uncle Sam Boat Tours, Boldt Castle, Black River Drive-in movies, splash pads, wineries, farmers markets, and Adirondack River Outfitters for some white water rafting. If your spouse is anything like mine and these outings don't appeal to them, you can reassure them that hunting is legal in New York and point them to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservations list of regulations.
Fort Drum Housing
Find out about homes for sale or rent near Fort Drum right here on MilitaryByOwner.
Whether you know someone who already lives in the area or need to learn more about Fort Drum, check out our Fort Drum base information page. You'll find information about Fort Drum military housing, schools, military spouse employment, and more!
2) Luke Air Force Base, Arizona
Luke Air Force Base in Arizona is one base you may not realize has beautiful fall foliage.
Sedona near Luke AFB. Photo from Canva.
Military Presence
Located west of Phoenix, Luke Air Force Base is home to the 56th Fighter Wing, the largest fighter wing in the world, and the Air Force’s primary active-duty fighter pilot training wing. As part of AETC (Air Education and Training Command), the 56th graduates hundreds of pilots and air control professionals annually.
Things to Do
Though the base is located in the desert, it's just a short two-hour drive from popular Sedona, Arizona, also known as Red Rock Country. According to the Gateway to Sedona,
“Sedona is now recognized as a favorite US Southwest vacation destination. Drawn first by the incredible scenery, visitors look forward to the many activities and experiences they can have in Sedona. For outdoor fun, there's hiking or biking along beautiful, well-marked trails, jeep and other scenic tours, and golf.”
If you want to see the beautiful fall hues consume Red Rock Country, the peak color season runs from mid-October to early November.
Luke AFB Housing
Learn more about military housing at Luke AFB and peruse Luke AFB houses for sale or rent on MilitaryByOwner.
3) USCG Station Portland, Oregon
Fall in Portland, Oregon. Photo from Canva.
If you've ever visited the state of Oregon, you know that it is gorgeous! Listed as one of the Best Fall Foliage drives in the state, Portland is even more stunning this time of year.
Military Presence
According to its official site, “USCG Station Portland is manned 365 days a year, 24 hours a day for response to Search and Rescue Emergencies, Recreational Boating Safety, and Homeland Security Missions.”
Things To Do
Portland is not just another pretty city. The area has a great deal to offer, whether you live there or are just visiting. Some of Portland’s must-see places include the Oregon Zoo, Portland Farmers Market, and the Portland Japanese Garden.
Travel Portland has many other activities listed that you must see when you are in town. Beyond the local tourism, the Portland area has an overload of outdoor activities. Silver Falls State Park, Forest Park, and many outdoor trails for hiking and running are located nearby. The landscape is beautiful year-round, but if you're looking to enjoy the warm colors of autumn, it's best to plan your time outside in October.
USCG Station Portland Housing
There's no military housing at this base. Do you have a home for sale or rent near Coast Guard Station Portland? Learn how you can easily list it with MilitaryByOwner: advertise with us.
Happy Fall to all my fellow autumn lovers decked out in boots and sweaters. Celebrate by planning an epic leaf peeping trip, or get outside and enjoy the scenery where you live!
