Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA: August 12, 2003L Beaver Island has joined the ranks of West Michigan''s best fall color tour destinations, premiering on the pages of the all-new Fall/Winter Edition of West Michigan: Carefree Travel. Published annually by the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA), the 2003-04 edition offers maps and turn-by-turn driving directions for 26 of the most popular scenic tours across West Michigan's 41 counties and its two inhabited islands.

Winter's whites complement autumn's crimsons and golds in the 64-page magazine-style guide. Its feature stories, recommended tour routes and "Quick Finder" guides are designed to help the 42 percent of tourists expected to visit the region between September and March plan their fall and winter get aways.

Fall features focus on historic covered bridges and on "unconventional spirits" -- unique wines and eau de vies produced across West Michigan's viticultural areas. A "Quick Finder" to farm markets highlights outdoor fall activities like hay rides and corn mazes and scary Halloween adventures.

Winter outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy West Michigan's most comprehensive printed resource guides to winter resorts, downhill ski areas and snowmobile and cross-country ski trails. For those inclined to spurn the frosty air for indoor warmth, a feature on the region's cultural gems suggests dozens of alternative activities with appeal for all ages.

The Fall/Winter Edition includes an eight-month events calendar and detailed recommendations for select places to sleep, dine, shop and play. It is one of three free travel guides published annually by WMTA. All are available at no charge by calling toll free from the US and Canada to 800-442-2084, ext 1; via e-mail to info@wmta.org; or by logging on to www.wmta.org.

Founded in 1917, WMTA is the oldest continuously-operating regional tourist association in the nation. Promoting the entire west half of Michigan''s Lower Peninsula, WMTA is dedicated to proving that "Nobody Knows West Michigan Like We Do!"