We love waterfalls and fall foliage, right? Who is to say we can’t have both at the same time? This waterfall in Kansas is always beautiful when it’s active, but it’ll be especially stunning once it’s framed in beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold. Plan to come a day after recent rains and you’ll be treated! Cowley Lake Falls, also called Cowley State Falls, is an amazing introduction to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sunflower State’s waterfalls.

Do you recognize this cascade?
Carl Parsons/Google
Cowley State Fishing Lake is a stunning spot no matter what, but this fall it's bound to be even better.
The Lake sits in Ark City, which has plenty of bluegill, channel cat, bass, and sunfish.
Shawn Watson/Google
...but we're not here for the fish, are we?
Around the waterfall, there are plenty of great views of all the trees around the lake, and even more if you walk around.
Carl Parsons/Google
It's worth the effort 150% - we promise!

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There's a perfect vantage point where you can watch the water without getting wet, and see all of the foliage surrounding it at the same time.
Adam/Google
Sure, you'll have to hike to get to it... but again: TOTALLY worth it!
If you've got the time, it's a short walk from the road to the waterfall, where you can look at all of the fall colors you love and listen to the waterfall's rush.
Carl Parsons/Google
It's calming for the soul.
If you've got waterproof shoes or your splashing boots, taking a walk with your toes in the water is always a fun fall activity.
Carl Parsons/Google
The sun isn't beating down on you here, and the water's sounds are oh so relaxing.
As always, the best time to visit is after there's been a little rain in the area, but not so much that it's flooded or muddy.
Carl Parsons/Google
Wear good shoes and pack water to drink - and don't forget the sunblock.

 

For more information about Cowley State Fishing Lake or fishing here in general, check out the Cowley State Fishing Lake official website. Also, check out this wonderful video to see just what to expect at this amazing Kansas waterfall:

If you prefer to be in the car while you sight-see your fall foliage, check out this scenic autumn drive in Kansas perfect for viewing all the best changing leaves. Need somewhere to stay? Check out all the awesome fall foliage spots our friends at Airbnb have!

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More to Explore

Cowley Lake Falls

Tori Jane | August 02, 2023
  1. How big is Cowley state waterfall in Kansas?

More formally known as Cowley Lake Waterfall in Arkansas City, Kansas, this gorgeous cascade is an impressive 25 feet tall! Interestingly, this waterfall in Kansas has been called one of the most beautiful in the United States by various sources at various times. It’s amazingly beautiful – a true hidden gem that nobody expects from the Sunflower State.  

  1. Where can I see the best fall foliage in Kansas?

What’s better than fall foliage in Kansas? Not a whole lot. There are a large number of awesome places that are perfect for viewing fall colors in Kansas, like:  

  • Eisenhower State Park – Colors here range from brilliant gold to fiery red, and somehow this park tends to fly under the radar for non-locals.  
  • Bartlett Arboretum – This amazing little refuge holds annual autumn viewing events, and we strongly recommend you do at least one!  
  • Central Riverside Park – This Wichita staple is famous among Kansans for its awe-invoking fall colors.  
  • The Gypsum Hills – This part of the Sunflower State is intensely beautiful year-round, but during autumn, it takes on a very special beauty.  

Learn more about each of these places to see fall foliage in Kansas!   

  1. What is it like in Kansas in the fall?

Autumn is a magical time; the transitional seasons really do seem to be the most beautiful, especially here. A few things to keep in mind about Kansas in the fall include:  

  • The average daily high drops from about 86 degrees to about 49 degrees.  
  • The average daily low drops from about 68 degrees to about 33 degrees – just above freezing!  
  • Overall, autumn in Kansas is fairly mild and tends to have many sunny days.  
  • The first freeze does not typically occur until October.  

Learn more about Kansas in the fall.   

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