
Must Hike Places For Fall Foliage This Weekend Across Iowa
It's time for one last hurrah on the trails; especially when it's the perfect time to catch all the vibrant colors of fall. This weekend I will once again be heading to one of my favorite places near Yellow River State Forest, but Iowa has so many amazing places to get amazing views as the leaves changes colors and begin to fall.
Taken from the trails at Effigy Mounds National Monument.
According to the Iowa DNR this weekend and through the 20th of October is peak color season across the state. Let me break down some of the best areas of Iowa I have already been through.
The overlook at White Water Canyon in Bernard, just outside of Cascade, Iowa.
Make sure to follow the links in this article to explore the photos and gather more information on each area before you head out for fall hiking.
Northeast Iowa
Fall color is progressing rapidly here, with most woody plants transitioning into rich reds, oranges, and yellows. The peak viewing period is expected from October 10-20. Northeast Iowa is home to some of the state's most scenic landscapes, including the Yellow River State Forest and the Effigy Mounds National Monument, where you can immerse yourself in hillsides covered in autumn foliage. The Driftless Area, with its rugged bluffs and river valleys, offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River surrounded by fall colors. White Water Canyon, the Mines of Spain, Pictured Rocks, Backbone State Park, the Maquoketa Caves, and Dubuque Arboretum are even closer to home and worth the exploration in any season. Obviously, this is the area of Iowa I've explored and spent the most time in.
A panoramic taken above a section of Dancehall Cave at Maquoketa Caves State Park.

North-Central and Northwest Iowa
In this region, maples are glowing with red and orange, while hackberry, walnut, elm, and cottonwood are turning yellow. Native vines are also changing color, and some trees are already starting to shed their leaves. Peak color is anticipated by mid-October. Explore the fall beauty at Pilot Knob State Park and Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy miles of trails winding through vibrant woodlands and rolling hills.
Drone footage from Pilot Knob State Park.
Central Iowa
The fall season is just beginning here, with maples showing hints of red and orange, and other species like walnuts and cottonwoods turning yellow. Roadside sumacs and woodbine are scarlet, adding brilliant pops of color. Peak viewing should occur between October 19-20. Central Iowa’s Ledges State Park and Big Creek State Park provide ideal spots for hiking and taking in the landscape of cliffs, ravines, and wooded areas as they transform into their fall glory. East Central Iowa offers up Pinicon Ridge Park as well as Lake McBride, and Palisades-Kepler.
A beautiful section of Palisades-Kepler State Park.
Southeast Iowa
It’s still early in the season in Southeast Iowa, but yellows and browns are starting to show across the forests, while maples in towns display a range of hues. Virginia creeper and poison ivy add a splash of red. Peak fall color will likely occur around October 20. For a peaceful fall escape, head to Shimek State Forest, where you’ll find quiet woodland trails perfect for soaking in the changing leaves, or Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, known for its rolling terrain and scenic river views. You can also check out Columbus Junction for some swinging bridge fun. My vote is always for the Eden Valley Refuge or Wild Cat Den State Park.
Taken on the trails at Eden Valley.
South-Central Iowa
In this area, fall colors are off to a slow start. Shagbark hickory, sumac, and five-leaf ivy are turning ruby-red, while swamp white oak is beginning to yellow. Drought stress is visible on many trees, but dogwoods are showing deep purples. Expect peak colors around October 19. Stephens State Forest is the largest forest in the area, with multiple units offering hiking, horseback riding, and camping amidst the fall colors. Make sure to check out the Midwest's tallest observation tower for a killer shot at Cordova Park!
The view from the observation tower at Cordova Park.
Southwest Iowa
Hickories and cottonwoods in Southwest Iowa are nearing full yellow, while white ash is turning purple, and some oaks are beginning to change. The peak color display is expected in early to mid-October. The Loess Hills State Forest is a must-visit, featuring the unique terrain of the Loess Hills, which offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside blanketed in autumn colors. Make sure to check out the Desoto National Wildlife Refuge while you're in the area.
The Loess Hills will be amazing to explore for fall foliage!
Each region’s forests provide a stunning backdrop for fall exploration, offering trails and views that showcase Iowa’s rich natural beauty as it transforms with the season. Curious where to get started, here's a list of the best forest in the state; take a look and then take a hike! Check out photos to where I'm headed this weekend below:
Photos: Northeast Iowa's Yellow River State Forest
Gallery Credit: Tom Ehlers
Photos: Effigy Mounds National Monument - Harpers Ferry
Gallery Credit: Tom Ehlers
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