It's almost impossible to predict when the aspen trees out West will turn gold. September is a safe bet, but as for the actual days, only God knows. The best approach is to set aside a weekend, then “drive to the color.” So you need to have a bag that’s ready and willing to keep up, one with enough room for fleece, snacks, charging cables, journals, pens, binoculars, plus that old pair of Danner boots you just can’t quit on. In other words, you need this bag.

Our Dakota Waxed Canvas Oversized Weekend Bag is built especially for such color-filled trips. Tough leather handles allow you to grab this one and head out. The nylon lined interior is a breeze to clean and dry. And the fact that the distressed leather finish and waxed canvas will catch the eye of other pilgrims is, well, pure bonus. So pick your weekend, fill your bag, invite a friend or two, and drive to the color.