Now that the fall season has officially begun, there’s no better time to take a drive and enjoy Alabama’s beautiful foliage. We’ve listed a color trail below that includes some of the Yellowhammer State’s best places to experience beautiful fall colors. From parks to preserves, you’ll want to visit them all.
Because this color trail has a driving distance of 381 miles and a drive time of 7 hours and 23 minutes, it’s the perfect activity for a fall day trip. So, gather up your family and/or friends and let’s go.
Your adventure will begin in Huntsville at Monte Sano State Park. Monte Sano State Park, which covers 2,140 acres, is situated atop of Monte Sano Mountain. This state park offers some of Alabama's most breathtaking views, especially as the leaves begin changing colors in the fall.
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Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne
Little River Wildlife Management Area, 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Following a 1.5-hour drive, you'll arrive at Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne. Little River Canyon National Preserve, one of Alabama's top outdoor attractions, is located atop of Lookout Mountain and covers more than 15,000 acres. It's a wonderful place to visit during fall, especially when the leaves begin showing off their colors.
You'll then travel southeast for a couple of hours to Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham.
Covering nearly 10,000 acres, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama's largest state park. It's also one of the state's most beautiful parks, especially during the fall season.
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve - Pinson
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, 3906 Turkey Creek Rd, Pinson, AL 35126, USA
Following a short drive north, you'll arrive in Pinson at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, which covers nearly 500 acres, is considered one of Alabama's most beautiful outdoor spots. Even though the preserve is open year-round, the best time to visit is during the fall season because of its colorful foliage.
Palisades Park - Oneonta
Palisades Park, 1225 Palisades Pkwy, Oneonta, AL 35121, USA
You'll then travel northeast to Palisades Park in Oneonta. Palisades Park, which is one of Blount County's hidden gems, was established in 1973 and covers approximately 100 acres. It offers a magnificent view that lets you see for miles and miles. Because of how beautiful Palisades Park is this time of year, it definitely belongs on your bucket list.
Freedom Hills Overlook - Cherokee
Freedom hills overlook, Natchez Trace Pkwy, Cherokee, AL 35616, USA
Following a 2-hour drive to Freedom Hills Overlook, your adventure will come to an end. Freedom Hills Overlook, which offers one of Alabama's best views, is located on the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost #317. Also, at 800 feet above sea level, it's the highest point along the parkway in Alabama.
Where are some of your favorite places in Alabama to experience the state’s beautiful fall colors? Let us know in the comments below.
