The weather in Texas is notoriously unpredictable, which means -- across much of the state, anyway -- we never really know when that first cold front will arrive to mark the unofficial start of autumn. One thing that never changes, however, is the stunning fall foliage and a plethora of festive activities to enjoy during the harvest season. If you are looking for places to visit in the fall we have you covered. In no particular order, here are 12 of the most beautiful fall getaways in Texas.
1. Garner State Park (Concan)
If you're wondering about the best cities to visit in fall, Concan is definitely one of them. This slice of paradise on the Frio River is the most popular state park in Texas for overnight camping. While summer is the busiest season by far, autumn has its own unique reasons to visit -- namely, the unparalleled foliage. Trees line the riverbanks, showcasing their brilliant hues for all to see. Learn more about Garner State Park in our previous article.
2. Lost Maples State Natural Area (Vanderpool)
Easily the most iconic fall foliage destination in Texas, Lost Maples is a truly magical place. When fall arrives, the bigtooth maples erupt in a spectacular display of warm, yet eye-popping colors guaranteed to leave you awestruck. Ten miles of trails wind through the park, including one that ascends a 2,200-foot tall cliff and provides sweeping panoramas of the forest terrain.
3. Tyler State Park (Tyler)
Tyler might be a fairly large city, but its state park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day. While the spring-fed lake and 13 miles of trails are bucket-list-worthy year-round, the autumn colors add an extra special sense of wonderment. You can learn more about Tyler State Park in our previous article.
4. Lake Bob Sandlin State Park (Pittsburg)
Many people have never even heard of Pittsburg, Texas, but this tiny town is among the best leaf-peeping spots in the state. Towering trees that appear to tickle the clouds show off their most vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges come fall.
5. Daingerfield State Park (Daingerfield)
Pines, oaks, dogwoods, and more lush tree varieties define this lesser-known state park nestled deep in East Texas. Take an easy stroll around the 80-acre lake or challenge yourself on a 1.2-mile hike leading to the highest point in the park -- either way, you're in for some pretty incredible views. You can access more information about Daingerfield State Park in our feature article.
6. Davy Crockett National Forest (Ratcliff)
Nothing quite compares to the certain blissful solitude that only nature can provide, and there's plenty of it to be found in the Davy Crockett National Forest. During fall, the crisp air and brightly-colored leaves blanketing the forest floor make for a peaceful, breathtaking scene. You can access more information about Davy Crockett National Forest in our previous article.
7. Sam Houston National Forest (New Waverly)
Spanning over 160,000 acres, the Sam Houston National Forest is a vast wooded landscape that allows for near-endless exploration. Walk among the trees on the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail, which meanders through the trees. No matter which section of the trail you embark on, rest assured the scenery is simply unparalleled during autumn. Find more hiking trails in the area with AllTrails+.
8. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Not many people associate West Texas with colorful autumn blooms, but you'll find just that -- in abundance, actually -- at Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The short-and-sweet McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail is under a mile long and showcases the stunning foliage in all its glory. It just might be the best place to visit in Texas in October!
9. Martin Dies Jr. State Park (Jasper)
We have covered this underappreciated state park, but its beauty during the harvest season deserves a spotlight. Paddling the Angelina and Neches Rivers with striking hues in all directions is an experience whose splendor cannot be overstated.
10. Davey Dogwood Park (Palestine)
This 254-acre park is named after the Dogwood tree, which blooms in early spring. It's an amazing spectacle, but the equally gorgeous fall foliage deserves some recognition, too. The leaves usually hit their peak in November, and eight miles of trails allow for a peaceful stroll amidst the vivid colors.
11. Love Creek Orchards (Medina)
Hiding in the small Hill Country town of Medina, Love Creek Orchards is a quintessential autumn destination. Their bakery churns out some of the best apple pie in Texas, as well as apple ice cream (with real fruit chunks!) and a slew of other treats. Don't miss out on their pumpkin patch, which will be held on select dates in October. You can learn more about Love Creek Orchards in our previous article.
12. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden (Dallas)
Each fall, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden transforms into an enchanting pumpkin wonderland. Through November 1, more than 90,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash blanket almost every inch of the grounds. Guests can enjoy an array of festive activities like a hay bale maze, live music, cooking demonstrations, and -- of course -- an epic pumpkin patch. For more information about Autumn at the Arboretum read our feature article.
How many of these places to visit in the fall in Texas have you checked off your fall bucket list? Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Then, check out some of the best state parks where you can enjoy fall colors.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/texas/fall-foliage-state-parks-tx/
Check out more of America's best fall foliage destinations in this quick video:
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