Fall is becoming a season of its own for active travelers, with Backroads reporting that reservations for September through November have increased more than 30 percent since 2023. The growth is prompting the active travel company to expand its fall 2026 and 2027 offerings, from leaf-peeping adventures in New England and Quebec to hiking beneath the Northern Lights in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland, along with springtime adventures in Australia and New Zealand. Many itineraries pair outdoor exploration with luxury hotels and smaller-group experiences, taking advantage of milder weather and fewer crowds.

The shift toward shoulder-season travel reflects a broader desire to experience destinations at a more relaxed pace while still enjoying active pursuits. Backroads’ fall lineup includes biking, hiking, walking and multi-adventure trips, as well as private departures, women’s adventures and family-focused itineraries.

The Curated Take: The appeal of fall travel is hardly new, but the growth in active travel suggests travelers are becoming more intentional about when they go, not just where. Cooler temperatures, changing landscapes and fewer visitors can make the shoulder season particularly well suited to travelers who want to experience a destination on foot or by bike rather than simply see it from a resort.