North Dakota is a well-kept open secret. Just ask anyone who lives here.... And during the fall, as with many places, something amazing happens: All the foliage in our beautiful little corner of the world comes alive with brilliant, vivid color. And, luckily for us, there are numerous wonderful places to witness it. Autumn is a unique, transitional, transformative time, and North Dakota gets a front-row seat to some awe-inspiring views of it all. Check out Pembina Gorge this year if you get a chance - it's one of the downright best places for fall colors in North Dakota, and it's well worth (at least!) a day trip.

With more than 2,800 amazing acres of jaw-droppingly beautiful wildlands, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a special respite from the noise of the real world.

It is, predictably, nestled right within the gorge itself, and in the fall, the whole area blazes to life. Or, perhaps, it blazes to sleep, as soon the branches will be bare and covered with snow.

Soon, the bitter cold of winter will arrive.

...but until then, the leaves have some changing to do, and should you arrive at the gorge at the right time, you'll see it for yourself.

It's an exquisite experience, and it's best had on foot.

Thankfully, there are several trails weaving throughout the reserve that are perfect for the occasion. Take your time. Wear good shoes. Pack plenty of water. And then, finally, enjoy.

The reds, golds, and oranges of the surrounding foliage put on an unforgettably brilliant show.

When they think about fall colors, folks probably imagine states like, say, New Hampshire or Vermont. But, as long as you know where to look, North Dakota is just fine for the season, too.

Of course, Pembina Gorge isn't the only amazing place to witness fall colors in North Dakota.

We happen to have numerous favorites; our state parks, our county and city parks, and lots of our amazing hiking and biking trails are all excellent options when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors.

Best of all, thanks to the relative "emptiness" that is North Dakota, should you show up during the week you might even have the entire place - or places, depending on where you end up - all to yourself.

North Dakota is, after all, probably the best state to live in if you're a big fan of peace and quiet (and no neighbors for miles).

There are a lot of things to love about this quirky, beautiful little state of ours...

...and its fall colors are probably near the top of the list.

Need to know more about this amazing natural wonder in North Dakota? Check out the ND Parks and Rec website for more details. Planning a road trip to the gorge and need to know what to pack? No worries - check out our epic road trip essentials packing list.

Where are your favorite places for fall foliage in North Dakota? Let us know.