Last Call For Leaf Peeping: 5 Luxury Ways To See Fall Foliage

It's prime time for leaf peeping with fall foliage starting to peak in many parts of the country. In addition to hiking or mountain biking among the vibrant trees or taking a road trip in some famous fall foliage destinations, have you ever thought about embarking on a luxury leaf-peeping excursion?

From yacht trips that show off New York fall foliage to leaf-peeping by private jet and getting an aerial view of the red, orange and yellow canopies, here's some ultra-luxury ways to see fall colors.

Leaf Peep By Jet

Every fall, the team at Wheels Up , a private aviation company, sees an influx of interest in weekend leaf peeping getaways. Their charter services are able to fly their travelers into smaller airports to get to some of the top fall foliage destinations, such as Brenton Woods in New Hampshire, Letchworth State Park in Upstate New York and Gifford Woods State Park in Vermont. Passengers also are treated to a unique aerial view of the changing views.

"Given the timeliness of this natural phenomenon and the fact that the most spectacular leaves can also be found in remote locations, private aviation can make a quick jaunt to the most beloved destinations possible," Kristen Lauria, chief customer and marketing officer for Wheels Up, told Forbes.

See The Changing Leaves On A River Cruise

Another clever way to see the leaves without any leaf-peeping related traffic jams? On the water.

Enjoy a fall foliage river cruise (starting at $108 per adult) along the Hudson River in New York with Classic Harbor Line while aboard a custom-crafted 1920s-style motor yacht or 1800s-style schooner. Fall foliage enthusiasts have their pick of trips, running the gamut from brunch cruises to one narrated by a naturalist.

While on board, enjoy cider flights or a fall-themed cocktail like a maple old fashioned.

Charter A Yacht in New England

Sail through New England with Kensington Yachts on a personalized tour that could include stops in Boston, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and other charming fall destinations.

The team matches travelers with a vessel, and then can create custom New England itineraries with private chefs, beachside barbecues and clambakes, day trips and stargazing.

The starting price for a motor yacht for a trip like this would be approximately $80,000 for the week for up to 12 guests.

Leaf Peep Aboard a Historic Train In Switzerland

Board the famed Bernina Express for a scenic trip that travels between Switzerland and Northern Italy. A designated UNESCO World Heritage route, the trip spans 196 bridges and 55 tunnels, including the iconic Brusio Spiral Viaduct that's made of stone and that helps the train gain some serious elevation.

Travelers on the Bernina Express get views out their window of fall foliage amid snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and plunging valleys. Graubunden has a larch tracker to see when the leaves will change.

First-class tickets begin at $70.

Hike In Colorado's Mountains—Then Take a Helicopter Back To Your Hotel

Colorado is famous for its fall foliage, and Aspen is one of the best places in the state to see fall colors. One rewarding way for luxury adventure travelers to experience the golden Aspen stands is to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte with a $15,000 package offered from Limelight Aspen . Hikers will have access to a GoPro Hero camera to capture the journey, plus hiking gear from Ute Mountaineer, an independent outfitter and Aspen. The package also includes pampering before and afterwards at The Spa at The Little Nell .

After the hike, participants can give their feet a break and take a helicopter ride back to Aspen while enjoying the birds-eye view of the colorful mountains and sipping champagne.