
2021 Fall Color Tour
The Kent County Road Commission (KCRC) unveils all four routes of the 2021 Color Tour in anticipation of the region’s peak fall colors. The annual color tour guides travelers along picturesque routes throughout Kent County that showcase the vibrant colors of the season and the natural beauty of the area. The routes can be driven individually for shorter trips or connected for longer outings. Along the way, day trippers can stop at nearby public parks that offer opportunities for nature walks and picnics or enjoy other local stops and activities.
The color tour is something the road commission began producing in the 1950s and revived in 2016. "It's a great opportunity to give residents a chance to explore areas they never may have seen before and enjoy beautiful vistas throughout Kent County," said Steve Warren, KCRC's managing director.
+Pictured: Bailey Drive
DOWNLOAD COMPLETE 2021 COLOR TOUR HERE!
Eastern Kent County: Honoring 150-Year-Old Fallasburg Covered Bridge
New to this year’s tour is a celebration of the area’s bridges, specifically honoring the 150-year anniversary of the Fallasburg Covered Bridge (pictured, below). Travelers on the Eastern Kent County Route, can make an afternoon of visiting the area’s three historic covered bridges, including Fallasburg Covered Bridge, Ada Covered Bridge and Whites Bridge. The three bridges were built within four years of one another (Ada in 1867; Whites, 1869; Fallasburg, 1871) and each was constructed using Brown truss design. While the original structures of the Whites bridge and Ada bridge were lost to arson and fire, respectively, both were subsequently rebuilt. Fallasburg Covered Bridge and Whites Bridge are open to vehicular traffic and Ada Covered Bridge welcomes pedestrian traffic.
Pictured: Fallasburg Covered Bridge
Western Kent County: Farms, Apple Orchards and Trails
The Western Kent County Color Tour Route guides motorists along over 35 miles of road, many showcasing apple orchards and the fall harvest. This means that motorists may encounter slow-moving farm equipment as farmers move from field to field. Drivers must exercise caution, stay alert and remember that farm vehicles cannot turn and brake as easily as passenger vehicles. Slow down, be patient and anticipate a leisurely drive!
The White Pine Trail is also accessible from the western route, offering miles of scenic trail perfect for cycling, strolling and nature hikes.
Southern Kent County: Parks, Trails, Hay Rides, Pumpkin Picking
Over 100 miles and eight glorious parks await travelers along the Southern Route of the Color Tour. Motorists can stop along the way at apple orchards, farm markets, cider mills and more. Five bridges are also showcased along the journey, including the majestic Camelback bridge on Thornapple River Drive.
Northern Kent County: The Rural Road Less Traveled
The Northern Color Tour route is a celebration of rural beauty of Kent County. The 100+ mile route feature 6 parks, including Fisk Knob Park that boasts the highest elevation point in the county; it's perfect to take in an expansive view of peak colors! Drive around the serene lakes, stop at farm markets and find yourself slowly unwinding.
Roadtrip Playlist
Looking for the perfect tunes for the trip? Check out our 2021 Color Tour Spotify Playlists while driving your favorite routes this fall!
Buzzfeed Quiz: What Color Tour Road Am I?
Have you ever found yourself wondering, “If I were a road, what kind would I be?” No? Just us? Well, either way, KCRC is excited to share our “What Kind of Road Are You?” Buzzfeed Quiz. This not-so-scientific quiz will help you not only find yourself but also get excited about the cozy fall season. Take this quiz and then explore some hidden gems along the 2021 Color Tour routes. Make sure to share your results with us!
#FallFilter #ColorTour #PureMichigan #AutumnVibes #KeepKentCountyMoving
Color Tour Bingo
Fall colors are peaking in Kent County, so be sure to explore our Color Tour Routes at their prime! To celebrate, we created this super fun (and kid-friendly) Color Tour Bingo sheet! Here’s how to play:
- Step 1: Print or screenshot our bingo game & cross out each completed activity
- Step 2: Take a photo or screenshot your completed bingo card
- Step 3: Upload the photo or screenshot to your social media & tag @mikcrc (or email it to mlamoreaux@kentcountyroads.net) to be entered into our drawing
- Step 4: We will draw one winner who will receive a gift basket valued at $25
All entries must be submitted by October 31st. The winner will be announced on November 1st.