Aaron Widmar
No Comments

Tips for Looking at Colorful Fall Leaves Without Driving Dangerously

Decrease Font Size Increase Font Size Text Size Print This Page

How to view breathtaking autumn foliage without swerving or slowing like a distracted driver

As autumn rolls in and temperatures fall, more and more drivers will be out on country roads for Sunday afternoon drives to behold the breathtaking scenery. You might be one of those nature-lovers planning to round up the family and set out on a sightseeing tour of fall leaves.

Just because deciduous trees are more dazzling during this season doesn’t mean your driving habits should change and turn you into a road hazard. Don’t be one of those drivers who crawl along at 30 mph under the speed limit or drift across the median to get a view of the canopy overhead.

Listen to this advice for viewing autumn leaves without driving like a loon.


Seasonal Car Care Tips: How to prepare your vehicle for autumn


happy family in black SUV

1. Have a D.D. (disinterested driver)

Although the person who suggests the idea of traveling to see the fall colors will likely insist on being the person who drives, don’t let them get behind the wheel. Friends don’t let friends who can’t keep their eyes on the road drive. 

Instead, have someone in the group who isn’t keen on ogling the foliage operate the vehicle; that way, they’ll be less likely to lose focus and take their eyes off the road. Maybe even let that person control the radio as a reward for putting up with your group’s gaiety.

If you absolutely must drive but you still want to see the leaves, have someone else take pictures for you or take turns behind the wheel with the understanding that whoever’s driving cannot be distracted.

empty road mountains in background forest trees surrounding crosswalk
Photo: The News Wheel

2. Plot a wise route

The time of day, recent weather conditions, and general route you take can greatly affect your driving experience.

  • Don’t pick a direction that takes you toward the sunset or sunrise; the glare will make it harder for you to see and others to see you (there are ways you can reduce windshield glare if you encounter this). Avoid driving east or west at those times of day.
  • Don’t pick a popular road that’s full of traffic. Pick one that’s off the beaten path and less likely to be populated by a caravan of other rubbernecking motorists.
  • Don’t hit the road if it has rained or stormed recently; the pavement will be covered in wet leaves that make the street slick and harder to brake on. Wait for a period that’s dry and sunny.
Family riding in an SUV on a road trip
Photo: Ford Motor Company

3. Drive like normal (or, like a normal person)

Pretty, dying foliage is no excuse for driving like you’re 92 and have no steering wheel. Don’t make sudden, unpredictable stops that make you a hazard; it’s better to pull over or turn around than to slam on the brakes. Give other drivers extra space, especially if they’re from out of state. Drive with your lights on to be seen better by other spectators, even in the daytime.

Keep your eyes down instead of up. While you may be tempted to be looking up at treetops, you’ll be missing potholes, animals, stop signs, and other vehicles by taking your eyes off the road.

If your posse is demanding that you slow down so they can see better, take them through a state park where it’s acceptable to drive slower and see the sights. You can even stop and have a picnic lunch to let everyone see the trees up-close.

girl with dog in fall autumn leaves

4. If you’re on your own

Sometimes, you just want to hit the open road without having passengers to accompany (i.e., bother) you. While driving for fun is all well and good, it’s not a wise way to view the changing leaves.

If you’re on your own, consider walking in a park instead of driving, or mounting a GoPro to the dashboard to watch the footage later. Invite someone you know to come along and take pictures for you, or schedule a later date you can go with your friends/family. It’s better to have patience or miss an opportunity than to risk harming yourself and others on the road.