11 of the Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Missouri

Missouri is beautiful all year long. However, autumn just might be the most enchanting of the four seasons, especially with the landscape painted in shades of red, orange, and gold. Fall is also the perfect chance to enjoy the crisp air, the sound of the leaves crunching beneath our feet, and just being outside.

Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Missouri in the fall that will make your autumn even better.

1. Elephant Rocks State Park - Belleview

Elephant Rocks State Park offers plenty to do all year, but it's particularly pretty in the fall in Missouri. Embark on one of the hiking trails, bring a picnic along, or watch your kiddos on the playground after a bit of leaf peeping.

2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park - Camdenton

Brimming with natural wonders from a stunning blue spring to a natural bridge, Ha Ha Tonka State Park promises numerous ways to admire the fall foliage. Go on a hike. Kayak on the water, and stop by the castle ruins. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the perfect fall day trip in Missouri.

3. Taum Sauk Mountain - Arcadia Township

Can you think of a better place to check out the foliage in Missouri this fall than from the highest point in the state? Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is home to the highest point in Missouri, which towers 1,772 feet above sea level, and you can drink in the views from an easy-to-reach lookout tower. Taum Sauk Mountain boasts some of the best scenic views in Missouri.

4. Alley Spring - Eminence

As the seventh-largest spring in Missouri, Alley Spring beckons visitors with its sheer natural beauty. During the autumn, it transforms into a scene that belongs on an old-fashioned postcard. The gorgeous Missouri hike that will take you to Alley Spring is almost as beautiful as the destination itself.

5. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park - Lampe

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers a stunning backdrop for a day outdoors, where you can have fun and admire the fall foliage. You'll find a variety of activities to enjoy at the park (which requires an admission fee), including hiking trails and horseback riding. This spot makes a perfect destination for a family-friendly day trip.

6. Tower Grove Park - St. Louis

A stroll through Tower Grove Park in the fall, ideally at the peak of the fall foliage, is the perfect autumn activity. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, giving you plenty of time to explore and admire the colorful grounds. Did you know that Tower Grove Park is one of Missouri's most unique parks?

7. Stone Hill Winery - Hermann

One of the oldest wineries in the United States, Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, is a must-visit any time of the year. Plan a tour and tasting at the winery that's absolutely breathtaking, painted in rustic colors. Take a peek at this charming Missouri winery. It's one of the most fun places to visit in the fall.

8. Mark Twain National Forest - Rolla

Stretching 1.5 million acres, Mark Twain National Forest offers something for all outdoor lovers—from scenic hikes to camping. Admire the fall foliage as you explore on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Did you know that Mark Twain National Forest is also home to Missouri's second-largest spring?

9. Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain - Walnut Shade

Get your adrenaline pumping on one of the zipline tours at Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, which promises both jaw-dropping views and breathtaking excitement. This epic autumn adventure in Missouri comes with a healthy dose of adrenaline.

10. Weston Bend State Park - Weston

State parks in the fall? Yes, please! We have plenty of state parks to visit, each of which offers its own scenic views of the fall foliage. Weston Bend State Park features a scenic overlook where you can stand back and drink in the autumn beauty. Get a glimpse of the fun that awaits at this Missouri state park.

11. Cuivre River State Park - Troy

Billed as one of Missouri's most rugged parks, Cuivre River State Park boasts absolutely gorgeous views of the fall foliage. The park features a series of hiking trails, horseback riding, and boating. Learn more on the official website of Cuivre River State Park.

What are your favorite destinations and best places to visit in Missouri in the fall? Please be sure to share them with us on our Nomination Page. Then check out the seven reasons Ha Ha Tonka State Park is an amazing fall destination in Missouri. If some autumn hiking in Missouri is on your agenda this fall, make sure you have the handy AllTrails+ app downloaded to your phone.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own autumn adventure in the Show Me State using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.