20 Amazing Places To Visit In October In The USA

I personally think fall is the perfect time for an American adventure, and New England isn’t the only highlight! Here are my favorite gems to explore this month…

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

I adored taking a trip to this charming historic town during this month. I thought it was a special time because the breathtaking fall foliage had blanketed the surrounding Appalachian mountains, its 19th-century streets had become cozy and atmospheric, and there were seasonal ghost tours galore. 

I also spent time enjoying the small-town events in cool, crisp autumn air which took place during this month including the Scottish-inspired Highland Games of Harpers Ferry, the fun Fall Foliage Adventure Race and Halloween events galore – there was a family-friendly pumpkin carving and fireside story-time event, and a Halloween craft fair.

I drove 1.5-hours from Washington, D.C. and spent a long weekend leaf-peeping along the Maryland Heights Trail and famous Appalachian Trail (I started at the midpoint), seeing breathtaking views at Jefferson Rock and discovering the interesting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.
• Location: Northeastern West Virginia, eastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Historic, scenic, and peaceful 
• Average temperatures – 10°C to 18°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous historic boutique Light Horse Inn – I loved how it was it was proud its Revolutionary-era roots and finding out from the staff that it was was a tavern and a stagecoach stop!
• Discovering the interesting local museum – it was great to learn about the story of John Brown’s attempted slave revolt in the town in 1859. 

2. Asheville, North Carolina

October turned out to be a really special time to this charming city because I discovered the Blue Ridge Mountains had burst into brilliant fall colors, the air was crisp and perfect for scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the hiking trails were at their most beautiful, and the city had come alive with seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and cozy mountain-town charm. 

The weather was mild but crisp (from September to early November, the temperatures are still reasonably pleasant) and I saw that there was an awesome calendar of seasonal events including the fun Asheville Oktoberfest, the LEAF Festival (Lake Eden Arts Festival), Asheville Fall Craft Fair, the Official Halloween Bar Crawl and the family-friendly Eliada Fall Festival and Corn Maze.

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport and stayed for four days at the Insta-worthy 4-star Blind Tiger. I took a drive to peek at the peak fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway, saw gorgeous seasonal displays at the Biltmore Estate, hiked colorful trails in Pisgah National Forest and checked out Lake Lure where the famous lift scene in Dirty Dancing was said to have taken place! 

• Visitors Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Location: Western North Carolina in the southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Creative, outdoorsy, and laid-back 
• Average temperature – 18°C to 22°C

My highlights…

• Trying delicious farm-to-table cuisine at the chic eatery Rhubarb. I really loved the Two Brooks Farm Wild Rice and Mushroom Pirloo! 
• Sipping on a delicious pumpkin-spiced latte and enjoying a freshly baked banana muffin at the quirky BattleCat Coffee Bar.

3. New England

New England completely charmed me when I took a trip here in October and stayed for a whole month (being a digital nomad has its perks for sure)!

I saw that the much-loved region had transformed into a breathtaking canvas of fall colors, filled with scenic drives through leaf-laden countryside, and crisp, cool (but still not too chilly) temperatures that were perfect for hiking, apple picking, and cozying up in historic inns.

I kept stumbling across small quaint towns which hosting seasonal events. I especially loved the Topsfield Fair which opened with a Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off, the German-style Mount Snow Oktoberfest in Vermont, the Fall Fest in Maine and the Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular at McLaughlin Garden and Homestead. 

I flew into Boston Logan and drove two hours to start exploring in Newport, Rhode Island. I took a scenic drive down the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire and saw really breathtaking foliage and fall scenery, explored the leafy, historic towns of Litchfield and Kent, strolled through Salem’s Haunted Happenings in Massachusetts, visited The Pickin’ Patch in Avon, Connecticut and rode the famous Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train.

• Visitors Center Address: Discover New England, 75 S Main St, Unit 7, PMB 81, Concord, NH 03301, USA
• Location: northeast and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
• Map Location
• Vibe: Quaint, historic, and cozy with a strong seasonal charm
• Average temperature – 7°C to 20°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying in the gorgeous historic boutique Wilder House – I loved all the unique details such as the vintage Airline Radio, the games room, and the huge wrought iron fire places.
• Dining on a heavenly breakfast of gingerbread batter pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor!

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

I thought Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park was a jaw-dropping place to take a trip to in October. I found the cooler temperatures and the clear skies made it perfect for scenic drives and guided Navajo tours through the dramatic red rock formations.

I also found that the highly photogenic golden desert light and the fewer crowds than the peak season really enhanced the surreal, cinematic beauty of the landscape.

I flew into Arizona and drove two hours and then stayed for a truly extraordinary three days. I went on a guided Navajo tour through the iconic formations of the Mittens and Totem Pole, drove the 17-mile Valley Drive, and captured Insta-worthy sunset views from John Ford Point. 

• Visitors Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Location: Arizona–Utah border, southwestern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Majestic, cinematic, and deeply spiritual
• Average temperatures – 16°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Hiking the popular Wildcat Trail which took me on a two hour journey around West Mitten Butte.

5. Chicago, Illinois

I thought Chicago was a lot of fun to visit during this month! The fall colors in the city’s parks are at their peak so the parks and tree-lined avenues were ablaze with dazzling fall colors. The temperatures were mild, dry but crisp which gave the whole place a cozy vibe.

I also loved how the city buzzed with seasonal events, my favorites were the Open House Chicago, the Chicago International Film Festival, and Halloween celebrations in the hip Lincoln Park and Wicker Park neighborhoods and the Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights.

I flew into Midway International Airport and spent a very cool four days sampling the brews at Marz Community Brewing, gorging on Pumpkin Chai Spice Pie from Justice of the Pies Bakery, gazed at fall foliage in Millennium Park, take an architecture cruise along the Chicago River and catching the 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Davis Theater.

• Visitors Center Address: 301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616
• Location: north-central United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Urban, energetic, and cultured
• Average temperature – 13°C to 18°C

My favorite highlights…

• People-watching at the Riverwalk, a buzzy spot filled with awesome bars, shops, and restaurants. My favorites were the chic Beatrix and the trendy City Winery.
• Dining on tasty banana blossom tacos at Bloom Plant-Based Kitchen.
• Sipping on a Lychee and Elderflower Martini The Rooftop at Nobu Hotel – the city views were incredible!

6. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest really wowed me during this month! I loved indulging in leaf-peeping here and the trees on the rolling hills and dense hardwood forests start to turn in late September and by this month they transformed into a sea of gold by mid-October.

I flew into Pittsburgh and drove 2.5 hours and stayed for a gorgeous three days. On my trip, I hiked through fiery fall foliage on the Minister Creek Trail, took in sweeping autumn views from Rimrock and Jakes Rocks Overlooks, and enjoyed peaceful drives along the Longhouse Scenic Byway beside the colorful Allegheny Reservoir.

• Visitors Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
• Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania in the northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Serene, rustic, and nature-filled
• Average temperature – 10°C to 15°

My personal highlights…

• Canoeing on Allegheny Reservoir and then relaxing on the peaceful Kinzua Beach which is located on its shore.
• Biking along Jakes Rocks Overlook and Mountain Bike Trail – I loved the incredible panoramic views of the forest, rock formations and the Allegheny Reservoir. 

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

• Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Location: Gulf Coast of the USA in southern Alabama, southeastern part of the USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and beachy
• Average October temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Joining a beach yoga session with Gulf Shores Beach Yoga – I loved the sociable vibe and friendly group! 

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

I loved visiting this stunning alpine wilderness area during the fall because the colorful foliage is at its peak with golden aspen trees lighting up the mountainsides, it was elk rutting season I saw them out in full force throughout the valleys (complete with lots of bugling!), the summer crowds had dwindled, and I still had access for scenic drives on Trail Ridge Road before snowfall closed them for the season.

I flew into Denver International Airport (DEN), and drove two hours northwest to the park’s main entrance near Estes Park and stayed for a beautiful four days.

I drove the high-altitude Trail Ridge Road which took me up to see incredible panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and valleys, I hiked among golden aspens on the Bear Lake Loop and Ouzel Falls trails, and enjoying peaceful scenery with fewer crowds.

• Visitors Information – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Location: north-central part of Colorado, in the western USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Wild, peaceful, and awe-inspiring
• Average temperature – 4°C to 13°C

My highlights…

• Seeing awesome views of the mysterious Stanley Hotel from tramway which inspired Stephen King’s classic The Shining! Being a film fan it was a special moment for me! 

9. Austin, Texas

I had so much fun in the buzzy Texan city when I took a city trip there in October. I found the temperatures were much more comfortable than the searing heat of the summer months, there were plenty of fantastic fall and Halloween events to enjoy (they really go an extra mile for this season!) and the city buzzed with live music and outdoor patio dining still.

I found it had a seriously packed calendar of events too including the fun annual Austoberfest, the colorful Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, the sociable Austin’s Park n’ Pizza Halloween Fest, the Austin Film Festival, the family-friendly Pumpkin Nights Festival and the scary House of Torment haunted house attraction! 

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and stayed for a fun-filled four days. I strolled through historic 6th Street, fell in love with craft beer at the craft breweries, went hiking in the nearby McKinney Falls State Park and explored quirky shops along South Congress Avenue. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Location: In central Texas, in the south-central part of the USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Creative, energetic, and laid-back
• Average temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Watching a live band at the the hip Mohawk Bar and Live Music venue, the vibe there was awesome!
• Dining on tasty vegan enchiladas at the Tex-Mex Eldorado Cafe.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

I thought this month was the perfect month to visit this red-rock wonderland. I found that scorching summer heat had given way to pleasant daytime temperatures which were just right for hiking and photography, the red rock formations glowed beautifully under the softer autumn light, and I could explore the popular trails much more easily because there were far fewer crowds than the peak season.

I flew into Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), then drove 90 minutes to the park which was located near Moab, Utah and stayed for a unique three days.

When I was here, I hiked to Delicate Arch at sunset, explored the spires and arches of Devil’s Garden, drove the Scenic Park Road, and stargazed at the clear skies which were wonderfully free from light pollution.

• Address: Arches National Park, U.S. 191 North, Moab, UT 84532
• Location:south-central part of the US
• Map Location
• Vibe: Creative, energetic, and laid-back
• Average temperature – 15°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking to Delicate Arch and capturing a perfect Instagram-worthy shot with the breathtaking mountains as the backdrop.
• Joining a ranger for a hike (which was a free activity they offered here) – it was great to learn more about the park.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

I found out that this scenic 469-mile was just divine during this month! The winding mountain road had burst into a spectacular display of fall colors, with fiery red, orange, and gold leaves blanketed the forests, and the crisp air, scenic overlooks, and peaceful hiking trails made it one of the most breathtaking autumn drives in the country.

The wildlife is slightly less elusive and I try and spot deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears foraging for food.

I flew into Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO), drove for 3.5 hours and stayed for three days. On my trip I drove to the pretty Looking Glass Falls, Grandfather Mountain (one of the highest peaks in the park), the incredible Sliding Rock, viewed the fall foliage from the Linn Cove Viaduct and the Richland Balsam Overlook and then stayed over at the quaint towns of Asheville, Banner Elk, Black Mountain, and Woodfin.

• Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Seeing the stunning Crabtree Falls after hiking the two hour round trip on the Crabtree Falls Trail. 
• Stopping at the picturesque Ecco Adesso vineyard – I loved sampling the Shenandoah Valley wines.
• Catching a folk band perform live at the Blue Ridge Music Center.
• Feeling brave enough to cross the mile-high swinging bridge on Grandfather Mountain – it’s the highest of its kind in the country!

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

I’ve got a huge fondness for this gorgeous mountain town which is nestled along the world-famous Route 66! It’s also makes an awesome base for exploring nearby attractions like the Grand Canyon National Park, Walnut Canyon, and the San Francisco Peaks.

I love visiting this historic spot when there’s fewer crowds, the scorching temperatures have dropped, the trees are alight with color and the days are warm and pleasant. 

I really enjoyed visiting the nearby Wupatki National Monument, the dramatic Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, the jaw-dropping Meteor Crater (which is the best preserved meteorite impact sites in the world), the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon and exploring downtown Flagstaff which is filled with cool craft breweries, awesome live music, fantastic independent stores, and the interesting Museum of Northern Arizona.

• Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 15°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Indulging in epic amount of pretzels and sampling beer at Mother Road Brewing Company. Don’t miss trying their popular Tower Station Roadside Grove, a local favorite.
• Hiking the stunning three mile looped Red Mountain Hiking Trail which took me past unique volcanic landscapes. 
• Leaf-peeping at the stunning aspen groves in the San Francisco Peaks.
• Gazing at stars in the clear night skies at The Lowell Observatory.
• Exploring the incredible ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 700 years ago in Walnut Canyon.

13. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

This place is just so wow-inducing! The stunning protected area in northwestern Wyoming spans approximately 310,000 acres, making it a wonderful haven for outdoor lovers.

I adore the unspoilt landscapes, the imposing Grand Teton Mountain Range, alpine meadows, gorgeous valleys and crystal-clear lakes and I think this is the perfect month to explore them!

In my opinion, fall is when the park’s colorful foliage is at its peak, there’s fewer crowds, the temperatures are much more comfortable for hiking and the resident wildlife is much more active.

There are over 200 miles of hiking trails to discover and I personally really enjoyed exploring the spectacular Teton Range, discovering the recreational hub Jenny Lake, seeing the mighty Snake River and heading out to the leisurely Two Ocean Lake Loop for the best chance of spotting elk, moose, and grizzly bears – if you do this one just make sure you pack the bear spray!

• Park Headquarters address: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 13°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking the Jenny Lake Ferry across the water and hiking up the stunning Cascade Canyon and along the shimmering shoreline of Lake Solitude.
• Photographing the stunning fall Golden Hour (the time shortly after sunrise and just before sunset) when the warm lighting made the autumn colors even more vibrant!

14. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is a dreamy and romantic vacation destination and the second-largest island in Hawaii. I always fall in love with its gorgeous sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, tropical rainforests, towering mountains and volcanoes every time I take a trip here!

I personally think it makes a fine fall destination as I avoid the crowds of the peak seasons, and the weather is warm enough to enjoy the idyllic beaches and turquoise waters.

I created unforgettable memories by hiking up to the summit of the dormant volcano Haleakalā at sunrise and taking in the glorious views over the unique landscapes.

I also really enjoyed exploring the imposing Iao Valley State Monument (which is said to be a sacred place), discovering the lunar-like landscapes of Haleakala National Park, seeing the breathtaking Kipahulu coastline and cramming in as many beautiful waterfalls as I could (there are many)!

• Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Taking a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – seeing an awesome bird’s eye view of this magnificent island was incredible!
• Hiking the Pipiwai Trail – I loved seeing the stunning Waimoku Falls at the end. 
• Attending the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (which is held in this month every year) and sampling all the locally made delights! 

15. Door County, Wisconsin

This is a pretty peninsula located in Wisconsin between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. I personally think it’s a hugely underrated gem filled as its filled with ultra-charming scenery – picturesque harbors complete with gently bobbing boats, quaint leafy small towns and an beautiful coastline! 

Known as the ‘Cape Cod of The West,’ I’m always charmed by the relaxed, laid back vibe here as well as its long shoreline, historic lighthouses, rare limestone beach and no less than five state parks packed with hiking and biking trails. There’s also plenty of leaf-peeping opportunities!

I loved discovering the attractive towns, chatting to the friendly locals, tasting the creative craft brews, and dining on the delicious local cuisine. I also suggest not missing the family-friendly Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay.

• Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Camping under the stars near a gorgeous sandy beach at the Nicolet Bay Campground in scenic Peninsula State Park.
• Photographing the striking historic Cana Lighthouse which was built in 1859.
• Stopping by the Peach Barn Farmhouse and Brewery – I loved sampling their tasty craft beer, my favorite was the Silo Sisters Peach Sour!

16. Big Sur, California

I can’t get enough of this breathtaking stretch of coastline along the iconic Highway One, renowned for offering one of the most scenic road trips in the world.

 

I personally think the scenery here is seriously jaw-dropping and is home to twisty roads, stunning cliffs, rocky shores, a handful of gorgeous sandy beaches and superb ocean views all backed by thick redwood forests. 

 

Big Sur is very crowded in the summer, so I personally prefer to visiting this month instead. There are far fewer tourists, better rates on accommodation and the weather is still warm and pleasant.

I really enjoyed the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for Instagram-worthy views and the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to watch the cute and entertaining (but noisy!) elephant seals! 

• Visitors Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
• Location: between Carmel in the north and San Simeon in the south (90 miles).
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Spotting spotting the cute sea lions at Point Lobos Natural Reserve. 
• Taking a gorgeous shot of the Instagram-worthy Keyhole Arch which is located on the magnificent Pfeiffer Beach.
• Driving over the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and admiring the breathtaking views! It’s honestly one of the those trip of a lifetime kind of moments!

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The lovely Berkshires are a charming, beautiful and affluent area located in western Massachusetts. I always find the scenery here stunning, with rolling hills covered in dense forests and dotted with charming towns and cultural attractions! 

I personally love visiting here in the fall – the summer crowds are gone, and the gorgeous colorful foliage adds a new kind of magic.

I really enjoyed hiking and biking through the many State Forests located here (my favorites were Beartown  and Tolland which is home to the recreation hotspot Otis Reservoir), checking out the numerous art galleries, dining at the delicious farm-to-table eateries and exploring the Squaw Peak and Devils Pulpit (located in Monument Mountain Reservation) for scenic views.

• Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 13°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

• Watching a concert under the stars at the open-air venue Tanglewood (the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra).
• Hiking the Cheshire Harbor Trail which lead to the summit of Mount Greylock, home to the highest point in the state – I loved stopping at all the great observation points.
• Visiting the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge to see the most extensive collection of his paintings in the world and the fabulous The Emily Dickinson Museum near Amherst.
• Going apple picking and seeing fabulous fall foliage scenery at Bartlett’s Orchard! 

18. Las Vegas

I’m a huge fan of the entertainment capital of the world which is home with jaw-dropping hotel resorts, entertainment shows, and ultra-crazy nightlife! 

I love to visit during this month as the temperatures are much more bearable, the worst of the crowds have gone and I always find great hotel prices at this time of year.

As well as all the usual ‘Sin City’ offerings, Halloween is also a big deal in Las Vegas. I always make sure I take a stroll down LINQ Promenade which is very Halloween themed during this month, trying the wild Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball and going on a fun ghost tour in the nearby abandoned mining town of Goodsprings – it felt like something out of Scooby-Doo!

• Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the famous Fountain Display at Bellagio Hotel.
• Going for a Grand Buffet at the MGM Grand, the long counters crammed with all kinds of food were incredible! Everyone’s plates were piled sky high! 
• Watching the fun and frightening Zombie Burlesque show at Planet Hollywood.

19. Charleston, South Carolina

I personally think Charleston is a gorgeous gem of a city and I adore its charming tree-lined streets, historic architecture, historic antebellum mansions, excellent cultural attractions and its friendly Southern hospitality! 

Located on the Atlantic coast, in South Carolina during the summer months the weather is hot, humid and rainy so this month is a great time to discover this city. When I visited, the temperatures were warm but mild, the humidity was bearable, and I found some great deals on hotels.

I hugely enjoyed the stunning Georgian architecture of Rainbow Row, the beautiful Waterfront Park, the ornate Pineapple Fountain and taking a walk down Broad Street and browsing its independent shops, elegant boutique stores and postcard-pretty buildings!

• North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 24°C to 29°C

My highlights…

• Going paddle-boarding on the scenic Shem Creek.
• Cruising around in a PediCab bike taxi and exploring all the main attractions in a very fun way! 
• Walking over the Ravenel Bridge over Cooper River and seeing superb views of Charleston Harbor.

20. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

I’m a big fan of this stunning, lesser-known gem nestled between the cities of Akron and Cleveland, located along the scenic banks of the Cuyahoga River!

In my view, the scenery here is beautiful and is filled with rolling hills covered in thick forests, pretty waterfalls and calm, slow-flowing rivers.

The park is especially stunning during this month and I loved seeing the breathtaking foliage views from the Ledges Overlook (which can be reached via the Ledges Hiking Trail). 

• Address: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 13°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

• Biking the scenic Towpath Trail – I loved seeing old canal locks, deer and herons!
• Checking out the local produce at Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market. I recommend trying the delicious Silver Bee Honey! 
• Taking Instagram-worthy shots of the gorgeous fall foliage at the Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook.

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