BLOOM (TAMPA) – Travel Journalist and co-creator of FloridaBeyond.com, Susan B. Barnes, joined Bloom host Gayle Guyardo to discuss the powerful mental health benefits of taking vacations. Research shows that vacations not only bring increased feelings of happiness and relaxation but also help reduce depression and stress. To inspire fall getaways, Barnes shared five top outdoor adventures—all within easy reach from Tampa Bay, whether by car or direct flight.

1. Hiking in Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge’s stunning fall landscape makes it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers can take a direct flight to Denver, followed by a scenic two-hour drive. Local trails like Aspen Alley Trail and Boreas Pass are popular for their golden aspens and sweeping mountain views.

2. Bicycling the Natchez Trace Parkway from Tupelo, Mississippi

For a leisurely bike ride with breathtaking fall colors, head to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Accessible by a direct flight to Birmingham and a two-hour drive, this 30-mile stretch offers a flat, scenic ride through some of Mississippi’s best fall foliage.

3. Rock Climbing at Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and rock formations, Red River Gorge is a rock-climbing haven. From beginner to advanced climbers, there’s something for everyone here. Travelers can take a direct flight into Louisville, followed by a two-hour drive into Kentucky’s climbing paradise.

4. Apple Orchards in Hendersonville, North Carolina

For a classic fall experience, visit the apple orchards in Hendersonville, known for fresh cider and donuts. Even after Hurricane Helene, many orchards remain open. A direct flight to Asheville, or a scenic 9–10-hour drive, brings you to the heart of North Carolina’s apple country.

5. Wine Tasting in Virginia

The fall season in Virginia’s wine country offers ideal conditions for wine tastings and vineyard tours. Accessible via direct flights into Richmond or Washington, D.C., Virginia’s wineries have just wrapped up harvest season, making it a prime time to sample this year’s best.

From invigorating mountain trails to the cozy charm of apple orchards, Barnes’s recommendations offer a mix of adventure and relaxation that promise to recharge both body and mind this fall. These accessible outdoor escapes are perfect for embracing the season while enjoying the proven mental health benefits of a vacation.