The Enchanting Crowder State Park In Missouri Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

Autumn's glorious days are oh-so-fleeting, which means we want to savor every colorful moment. All parts of fall - from those early glimpses of color to the few leaves left dangling from the trees - promise a simple beauty that makes fall a favorite for so many of us. When we want to soak up the golden moments of fall, no matter where in the season we are, we'll find the perfect adventure at this enchanting state park in Trenton, Missouri.

Whether you have an entire day or just an hour or two, you won't find a better way to soak up all of the beauty of autumn than at Crowder State Park.

Nested in the northern part of the state, the lesser-known state park in Missouri welcomes visitors daily from sunrise to sunset.

Stretched across 1,912 acres, the enchanting state park promises something - from hiking to boating - for adventurers of all ages and interests.

One of the best ways to drink in the beautiful views is by boat. Kayak, canoe, or boat (electric motors are allowed) around the 18-acre Crowder Lake.

For a unique lake adventure, you might want to try standup paddleboarding. While the park office offers rentals, you may want to bring your own watercraft. The off-season means there are no official office hours, so whether it's open when you visit might be the luck of the draw.

If you prefer the sound of the leaves crunching to the gentle swish of the water, follow one of the scenic hiking trails. However, there's a bit of a catch.

Of the four hiking trails that meander through the state park, two score a hard rating and two earn a moderate rating. At just 1.6 miles, the River Forks Trail leads through the woods.

The biggest challenge on this moderate hike is the inclines. For the beginning of the trail, you'll go uphill, followed by an easier downhill stroll.

Keep in mind that not all hikers tend to agree with a trail's rating. What one hiker might find moderately challenging, another might find easy. You really won't know for sure until you try for yourself.

If you're up for a challenge, the Tall Oaks Trail, which clocks in at just under three miles, earns a difficult rating for its elevation changes and water crossings.

You'll be well-rewarded, though, with sensational views of the lake and the trees.

Enjoying yourself too much to call it a day at sunset? Crowder State Park welcomes campers annually from March 1 through November 30.

Visit the official website of Crowder State Park for more information. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this

Missouri state park.

Have you been to this enchanting state park in Trenton, Missouri? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Did you know that Crowder State Park is among the least-visited state parks in Missouri? Add it to your must-visit list. When you're up for more outdoor adventures, how about following one of the best hiking trails in Missouri? Find them on AllTrails.