Here Are The Best Times And Places To View Fall Foliage In Iowa

Fall in Iowa means many things. And while it's tough to see such a beautiful summer fade into fall, one of the perks of autumn here in Iowa is the beautiful show we get to witness as the leaves change from green to yellow, orange, and red. If you're curious about the fall foliage prediction map for Iowa, you've come to the right place. There are certain places in Iowa that are ideal for fall foliage viewing. It can be difficult to time your trip just right, though. Luckily, with the help of our friends at Smoky Mountains, we've put together a reliable road map for enjoying this year's fall foliage in Iowa to the fullest!

According to this prediction map, the leaves should start to put on their show right around the middle of October. Foliage varies depending on what region of Iowa you're from, though. Northern Iowa -- especially the northeast corner -- generally "peaks" first.

In fact, by the end of October, the northeastern section of the state will be wrapping things up as the leaves start to fall and the bright colors fade a bit. Those traveling through the southern and western parts of the state will see the foliage at its peak during this time.

While taking a trip to see the leaves in the most scenic parts of the state is fun, it isn't necessary to travel in order to appreciate autumn in Iowa. Some trees, like the Ginkgo, seem to drop their leaves all at once.

Others change colors slowly and hang on to their leaves much longer.

Even the dropped leaves serve an important function for the trees by providing insulation from the cold and moisture retention in the spring.

Here are a few of the most popular places to go for a drive in Iowa during the fall:

Loess Hills Trail Road leading into Missouri Valley, Iowa. There's nowhere more beautiful than these Iowa hills!

Ledges State Park in Boone is another fan favorite among Iowa leaf peepers.

The Effigy Mounds National Monument north of Marquette along the Mississippi River is even more intriguing in the autumn months.

Scenic drives, like around Wisconsin Bridge from Eagle Point Park lookout in Dubuque, are sure to take your breath away!

And we'd be remiss not to mention Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor -- it's one of the most fabulous places for fall foliage in all of Iowa!

This Fall Foliage Prediction Map from Smoky Mountains is an interactive tool that will help you understand when and where to see the most dramatic autumn colors. You can access the map above and drag the date marker along the bottom of your screen to see the colors on the map change in your corner of the Hawkeye State!

Have you studied the fall foliage prediction map for Iowa in past years? Did their predictions ring true? Do you have a favorite fall drive where you can see the best foliage Iowa has to offer? Share all things fall in the comments below!