When you hear the words “fall” and “Texas,” what comes to mind?
Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of vibrant fall foliage, but the Lone Star state offers several breathtaking spots where autumn colors truly shine. From the rolling hills of Hill Country to the lush forests of East Texas, there are plenty of places to experience the magic of fall. Here are some of the best locations in the state to catch the changing leaves.
1. Lost Maples State Natural Area
Located in Vanderpool, Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the premier destinations for fall foliage in Texas. This park is known for its striking Uvalde bigtooth maples, which turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold in late October and early November. With 10 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic East Trail, visitors can take in the autumn splendor from various vantage points. Be sure to plan ahead, as this park can fill up quickly during peak fall weekends.
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in West Texas, offers some of the best fall foliage in the state. The McKittrick Canyon Trail is the highlight here, as the maples, ash, and oak trees create a stunning display of red, orange, and yellow against the backdrop of rugged desert terrain. The peak season for fall colors in the park is typically late October to early November. In addition to the foliage, the park’s breathtaking cliffs and vistas make it a must-visit destination.
3. Garner State Park
Situated along the Frio River in the Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park offers a fantastic fall experience. The park’s cypress, oak, and mesquite trees take on vibrant hues, and the clear, cool waters of the Frio provide a beautiful reflection of the changing leaves. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and camping while soaking in the autumn scenery. Mid-October to November is the best time to visit.
4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Texas Panhandle is another excellent spot for fall foliage. The canyon walls, painted in layers of red, yellow, and brown, are complemented by the autumnal hues of the cottonwoods and sumac trees. This unique combination creates a breathtaking fall landscape. The park’s hiking trails offer plenty of opportunities to experience the foliage up close.
5. Davy Crockett National Forest
Davy Crockett National Forest, located in East Texas, is home to towering hardwoods and pines that put on a colorful display in the fall. The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is a popular spot to enjoy the changing leaves, with several trails that wind through the forest. This area is ideal for those looking for a peaceful, nature-filled retreat during the fall season, typically peaking in late October.
6. Caddo Lake State Park
Caddo Lake State Park, in the Piney Woods of East Texas, offers a unique fall foliage experience. Known for its Spanish moss-draped cypress trees, Caddo Lake’s wetlands take on a different kind of beauty in autumn. The golden hues of the cypress trees reflecting on the lake create a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. Visitors can explore the area by kayak, canoe, or hiking the park’s trails.
7. Texas Hill Country (Highways 16 & 337)
Driving through Texas Hill Country in the fall is an experience in itself. Highways 16 and 337 are some of the most scenic routes to take during this time of year. As you wind through the rolling hills, you’ll pass through small towns and see patches of vibrant fall colors from oak, cypress, and mesquite trees. The Hill Country’s unique combination of natural beauty and charming rural life makes it a great place for a fall road trip.
8. Tyler State Park
Tyler State Park in East Texas offers a beautiful array of fall colors, with its oak and maple trees turning bright shades of red and orange. The 64-acre spring-fed lake provides a peaceful setting to take in the beauty of autumn, with hiking, biking, and camping opportunities for those who want to stay and enjoy the park’s serene environment. The best time to visit is late October to mid-November.
While Texas may not have the extensive fall foliage similar to that in the Northeast region of the country, its diverse landscapes offer a wide range of opportunities to enjoy the season’s vibrant colors. From Hill Country’s winding roads to the striking maples in Lost Maples State Natural Area, these destinations provide plenty of photo opportunities and reasons to get outdoors and experience the beauty of a Texas autumn.
