(BPT) For families that like to travel and experience the beauty of nature, this is the perfect time of year. Cooler temperatures and vivid fall colors make for memorable and amazing sightseeing opportunities. Our region of the country is known for providing a vivid display of fall colors, making it a convenient day trip or the perfect weekend getaway. If you and your family are starting preparations for a fall trip of your own, keep these tips in mind in order to get the most enjoyment from your fall foliage excursion.

Research your region

You want to see the fall colors? Great. Now where are you going to go? Many private and public parks offer trails for visitors as well as camping accommodations. You may also have the opportunity to rent off-road vehicles or other recreational products. When researching a region, be sure to look for trail maps of the area so you can get a lay of the land and determine the best trails to match your family’s experience level.

This is also a good time to remember flexibility is key to seeing the best colors. If you plan to camp or are visiting an area popular for fall foliage viewing, it is always best to check camping options and/or hotel availability.

Plan for weather of any type

As you’re packing your gear, make sure to pay attention to weather forecasts in the area you’ll be visiting. If your destination resides outside the area covered by local news stations, you can use Internet sites to find the information you need. You can also contact the local tourism bureau to learn more about the weather trends in the area and they may have other tips that will help you plan your trip more effectively. Most foliage starts to change colors from mid-to-late September, and the season can last through the first part of November, so plan your trip for a time that works for you and your destination.

Make the most of your experience

You can only see so much from your car window or while walking on foot. To get the total experience, picture yourself riding down trails on an off-road vehicle while enjoying a whole new perspective on those amazing fall colors. The Polaris ACE is the vehicle for just such a trip. It gives operators the confidence and capability they need to navigate any trail, all while providing a comfortable ride—perfect for hours of sightseeing.

You can make the most of your trip by using off-road vehicles; you just need to add a few extra maintenance steps to your trip preparations.

Start by having your machine serviced at a local dealership or handling these tasks yourself. If you plan to do your own upkeep, make sure you change the oil, clean the air filter and check the tire pressure. You should also examine the brakes, electrical wiring and bodywork to make sure nothing is loose or broken. This is also a good time to pack all of your family’s appropriate safety gear including helmets, goggles, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants and boots. Finally, don’t forget to pack a tire patch kit and extra gas, these items may prove invaluable to help you navigate any bumps in the road and keep riding and enjoying all afternoon.