Introduction

Nothing says "family drive" like fall in the air. There's a crisp crackle outside and a coolness that feels like sweater weather. Even the lawn seems to revel in the changing season by kicking back and growing only modestly. Now that mowing's a more intermittent chore, take advantage of the extra time and perfect weather to celebrate the turning of the season.

Welcome another beautiful autumn by piling the kids in the car and taking a drive. It's as American as apple pie and every bit as delicious to hit the byways and back roads. When the scenery cooperates with a showy display of color, so much the better. We're not just talking to the lucky folks who live in the Northeast, where the renowned fall-color show attracts visitors from around the world. No matter where you live, there's something turning -- some species of tree or shrub reacting to the lengthening nights and the cooling temperatures -- and putting out colorful leaf pigments to hail the changing of the seasonal guard.