Take In Fall Foliage in the Golden State

It would take days to drive all of highway 49 and truly do it justice, so breaking a trip into segments is the way to go.

One fine place to linger is along the central section of the road near Angels Camp, in Calaveras County. The best colors are not so much in the town itself, but nearby, accessed via secondary roads.

One gold mine for fall color is Ebbetts Pass, found outside Angels Camp, on highway 4. This scenic area -- designated as a national scenic by-way -- can be surveyed from one of many turn-outs along the winding road, which is flanked by stands of aspen and juniper. Aptly named Big Trees State Park, studded with dogwood and also near Angels Camp, is another good choice.

If you want to spend the night in this area -- and don't mind sharing the premises with spectral guests -- you can tuck yourself in at Murphys Historic Hotel, a circa-1855 hotel in the town of Murphys that is said to be haunted. The town will host a "haunted tour'' of old buildings and a cemetery on Nov. 1.

Back on 49 heading north, you roll into Amador County, home of one of California's many wine-producing regions. Which brings up an interesting note: Grapevine leaves, like tree leaves, change color in the fall. Just don't forget to look down, rather than up.

The big town in these parts is Jackson. If you need to fill the gas tank or stop for a bite, Jackson presents a range of choices. Now, grab a cup of joe and climb back behind the wheel.