Maplewood State Park
The 2018 Minnesota Fall Color Update is brought to you by Explore Minnesota and the Department of Natural Resources. This update will be sent out each Thursday afternoon during the fall color season. Before you travel, be sure to check the Fall Color Finder for the most current updates.
This week's cool temperatures seem to have accelerated the change in colors. Parks recommended for good fall color this week are Scenic, Maplewood and Minneopa state parks.
Peak fall color typically arrives in the northern one-third of the state in mid-September to early October. The central third of the state is most colorful between late September and early October. Southern Minnesota trees reach the height of their fall color late September to mid-October. One exception is the North Shore of Lake Superior, where peak fall color arrives about a week later than inland areas due to the warming effect of the lake.
The Hike MN Sweepstakes is underway now through Oct. 21, with an array of prizes available including Minnesota getaways and gift cards for Mall of America and Minnesota State Parks. For information on hiking in Minnesota and to learn about 10 must-see fall hikes, visit Hike MN.
As a result of teaming up on this year’s fall color updates, some of you may get two copies of this e-newsletter—one from Explore Minnesota and one from Minnesota State Parks and Trails. Feel free to unsubscribe from one or the other if you only wish to receive it once.
[Southern] [Minneapolis-St. Paul Area] [Central] [Northwest] [Northeast]
Northeast Minnesota
Fall color is developing rapidly in the northeast region of the state. This weekend, consider a trip to Scenic, Bear Head Lake and Cascade River state parks.
Scenic State Park - Bigfork, north of Grand Rapids
The red maples are at their peak. The birch and aspen are still mostly green, but nearly all of the trees show a bit of fall color change. The understory shrubs such as dogwood, sumac and blackberry have turned bright shades of red. This week's cool temperatures should result in peak fall color in the next week or so. All trails at Scenic are in great shape for hiking. Rent a canoe, kayak or rowboat and explore Coon and Sandwick Lakes, or do some fishing from the wheelchair accessible fishing pier. Kids' Discovery Kits, Birding Kits and Fishing Kits can be checked out at the park office.
McCarthy Beach State Park - Side Lake, north of Chisholm
Beautiful fall color has spread throughout the park. Many of the maples and aspen have turned bright shades of red, orange and yellow. Park staff recommend biking or walking the Ski Trail Road. Hiking around Pickerel Lake is another great way to view the vibrant fall leaves. Consider renting a boat, canoe or kayak to paddle the Sturgeon River channels which connect the chain of lakes within the park. There are total of seven lakes with trout, walleye, bass, northern pike and panfish within the park.
Bear Head Lake State Park - Ely
Significant changes in the forest canopy continue to be seen daily. Experience the brilliant tunnel of color as you drive on Bear Head Park Road which is decorated with neon peach, red and gold maple foliage and bright yellow paper birch and aspen leaves. The ash are lightening the canopy with beautiful shades of yellow. The hazel in the understory is turning a light yellow and the blackberry bushes are crimson. The Norberg Lake Loop is a wonderful 3.5 mile loop starting at the Trail Center. It offers beautiful overlooks of Norberg and Bear Head lakes. Fishing, GPS and Birding kits are available to check out free of charge at the park office.
Cascade River State Park - Grand Marais
The maple ridges are approaching peak fall color, and the birch, moose maple and fruit trees are adding lots of yellow to the mix. A hike to Lookout Mountain offers great views. The 1/2 mile loop along the river that travels past a series of waterfalls is very popular with visitors who have less time to hike but want to see the beautiful Cascade River. The migration is in full swing with many species passing through the park. Pink salmon have been spotted in the mouth of the river. And don't miss Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour taking place Sept. 28 through Oct. 7 at studios in Grand Marais and surrounding communities.
Banning State Park - Sandstone
Bright red, coral and orange leaves are taking over the maples, with lovely yellow and orange leaves appearing in the other tree species. The Quarry Loop Trail is an excellent choice for fall color seekers. The self-guided trail along the Kettle River Rapids and old quarry buildings is a wonderful and easy 1.7 mile hike. Be sure to check out Banning's two waterfalls. Bikers will find access to the paved Willard Munger State Trail just 5 miles from the park.
Northwest Minnesota
The fall transformation is well underway in the northwest region of the state with stunning maples now visible at Itasca State Park, lovely tamaracks at Big Bog State Park, and beautiful prairie grasses at Buffalo River State Park.
Big Bog Recreation Area - Waskish
The tamarack trees along the boardwalk are starting to turn bright shades of orange. The mile-long boardwalk will give you an opportunity to also see unique and sometimes rare plants and animals. Be sure to climb the 1937 fire tower for a spectacular view of the fall color along the Upper Red Lake shoreline and the Big Bog. Boat and canoe access with multiple docks are available on the Tamarac River. Consider renting one of the camper cabins.
Lake Bemidji State Park - Bemidji
A golden glow is advancing through the park, with increasing amounts of red and orange spreading through the trees. The maples along the park roads and along Rocky Point Trail are starting to pop. The bird feeders near the Visitor Center are busy as birds prepare for their seasonal migration. Consider viewing the fall colors from the water -- canoe, kayak and fishing boat rentals are available through early to mid-October.
Itasca State Park - north of Park Rapids
The red and sugar maples are approaching peak fall color, and many are filled with vibrant red, peach and orange-yellow leaves. The paper birch are quickly turning a deep gold. The ash are almost entirely yellow, and the balsam poplar, ironwoods and larger basswoods take on more yellow leaves each day. Adding to the beauty are the many understory shrubs filled with deep red, purple-red and golden leaves. The big bluestem is a spectacular purple hue. While autumn color can be seen throughout Itasca, recommended routes include a drive along the Main Park Drive and Wilderness Drive, and hikes along Brower, Ozawindib, Aiton Heights and Deer Park trails. Touring by boat, kayak or canoe is always good for viewing the fall transformation. The restaurant at Douglas Lodge is open through Oct. 7. On Saturday, Sept. 29, attend Itasca's Mysteries in History at 1 p.m., and don't miss the performance by Craig Willis at 7 p.m.
Detroit Lakes/Becker County
Fall colors in the Detroit Lakes are at roughly 30%, with blazing yellow, orange and red leaves taking over the maple trees. Lovely shades of yellow can be found in the ash, aspen and birch trees. Some burr oaks are displaying shades of amber with yellow highlights, and the red oaks show hints of red. The ditches are filled with deep red sumac and Virginia creeper. The Indian grass has golden seed heads that sway with the wind. Leaf colors in the Detroit Lakes area usually peak the first week in October. On Saturday, Sept. 29, enjoy the Tamarac Fall Festival at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge with guided tours, photo contest exhibits, wildlife puppet shows, a tree identification quiz, a ForesTree Challenge, children’s activities and crafts, and trolley rides to the event sites. Lunch will be available for purchase. The refuge is located 18 miles northeast of Detroit Lakes. Check out 3 recommended Fall Color Auto Tour Routes to plan your scenic drives and autumn hikes.
Buffalo River State Park - Moorhead
The big and little bluestem grasses are stunning this year. The prairies are filled with gold, rose and purple grasses, with some sections more than 6 feet tall. Adding to the beauty are the many late season wildflowers in full bloom. For the nicest views, check out the Bluestem Prairie on the south side of the park, as well as the River View and Hiking Club trails. The Picnic Area Trail will bring you to some great fishing spots on the Buffalo River.
Central Minnesota
Park staff report rapidly changing colors at a number of central Minnesota parks. Some of the most colorful parks this weekend should include Maplewood and Glendalough state parks.
Maplewood State Park - Pelican Rapids
The fall colors are advancing through the park with wonderful fall color expected by this weekend and continuing over the next 2 weeks. The sugar maples are displaying vibrant patches of orange and red, with some trees just about to peak. The sumacs are nearing peak shades of crimson red and vibrant orange. The ash trees are rapidly taking on shades of golden-yellow. The native prairie grasses are at their peak and displaying a varied palette of bright maroon, gold, purple, blue and bronze hues. The purple asters and yellow goldenrod add to the colorful landscape. Hike to Hallaway Hill for impressive views of the park's lakes, prairies and hardwood forests, or take a drive on the 4.5 mile park drive through the heart of Maplewood's forests and prairies. A fishing pier and two boat accesses are available in the park. On Sept. 29-30 & Oct. 6-7, celebrate Leaf Days at Maplewood State Park and enjoy hikes and wagon rides to view the beautiful leaves, apple juice making using an apple press, rope making, corn shelling and grinding, butter making, early settler toys & games, woodworking & nature craft projects, a digital scavenger hunt, and demonstrations. Food, clothing and maple syrup from the park's own trees will be available for purchase.
Glendalough State Park - Battle Lake
The ash and cottonwood trees are quickly turning shades of yellow, and the maples are taking on bright red and orange hues. Sweeping views of the rust and golden prairies are enhanced by patches of lovely red sumac. The Prairie Hill and Sunset Lake trails offer the nicest views. Watercraft and bike rentals are available until Oct. 21. A Fall Color Hike and Archery in the Park will be offered Saturday, Sept. 29.
Sibley State Park - north of Willmar
The big bluestem and Indian grasses are nearing peak shades of reddish-purple and gold. The ash and basswood have shed most of their bronze-colored leaves, but the golden hiking trails look and sound wonderful. Some of the burr oak and sugar maple trees are displaying red, rust and orange in their tree tops. The Pond View Trail is a favorite for taking in both the prairie and woodland colors. Hike the Mount Tom Trail then climb to the Mount Tom Lookout for a panoramic view of Sibley and beyond. The camper cabins at Sibley are available year round.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park - Onamia
While most of the trees remain green, the maples and oaks are in the process of turning various shades of red and orange. The paper birch and black ash are adding lots of yellow to the mix. Rent a canoe or kayak from the park office (or bring your own) and paddle the scenic Rum River for an opportunity to enjoy fall color from a different vantage point. Walk the Landmark Trail to visit two archaeological sites and learn about the area from interpretive signs along the way. This trail also takes you along Ogechie Lake where you can see the golden wild rice growing in the lake. Check out Archaeology Day on Saturday, Sept. 29 and enjoy a full day of demonstrations and activities highlighting archaeology and the rich heritage of the Mille Lacs area. Nearby, at the city of Isle, check out
The Olde-Tyme Fall Fest on Sept. 29.
Savanna Portage State Park - McGregor
The park is beginning to brighten as the green leaves turn light green, yellow and gold. The underbrush is very golden but starting to thin. Some trees, including the maples, are adding nice orange and coral colors to the mix. Travel the park roads or visit Loon Lake or Lake Shumway for the nicest fall color views. Also enjoy great fishing from the fishing pier.
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Fall color is becoming more visible in the trees, understory shrubs, grasses and wildflowers. Parks along the St. Croix River such as Wild River and Interstate state parks should offer the nicest fall color views this weekend.
Wild River State Park - Almelund, east of North Branch
There are a handful of colorful maples, but the rest have yet to change color. The ash and basswood, some birch and a few oaks are becoming more colorful. The sumac and other understory shrubs are beautiful shades of red and maroon but starting to fade and drop their leaves. The big bluestem and Indian grasses are tall and picturesque, with little bluestem displaying white tufts of seeds. Driving the park roads will provide nice views of the existing fall color in the trees, prairie grasses and flowers. Enjoy a sweeping view of the St. Croix River Valley from the Visitor Center deck. For high vistas and a hilly hike, try the Highland Hills Trail. Consider renting a canoe or kayak to view the fall colors from the river; shuttle service is offered on the weekends.
Interstate State Park - Taylors Falls
Park staff report that fall color change is at roughly 15 percent with small pockets of gold and orange leaves visible in the basswood, sumac and maples. The forecasted cool evening temperatures and sunny days should quickly coax more fall colors into the St. Croix River Valley. For the best views, hike along the pothole area, the River Trail and the Sandstone Bluffs Trail. On Saturday, Sept. 29, enjoy a Guided Glacial Pothole Tour at noon, and a Get Ready for Fall: Investigation Station at 2:30 p.m.
Fort Snelling State Park - St. Paul
While the trees remain mostly green you can enjoy a crisp walk under a golden cottonwood canopy on Pike Island and along the Minnesota River. The ash trees are turning yellow and may begin to lose their leaves on windy days. Park staff recommend hiking around Pike Island, renting a Nice Ride bike to tour the main park, or renting a canoe for a paddle on Snelling Lake.
Three Rivers Park District - Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Scott & Wright counties
Your best bets for some fall color this week are Lake Rebecca, Baker, and Elm Creek Park Reserves. Color has begun to develop over the past week, though there is still a ways to go until peak conditions at the Big Woods parks. Many of the ash, boxelder and elm have already turned their standard yellow – with many having already lost their leaves. There are a few maples, and maybe a basswood or two with some decent color. The oak dominated parks (Hyland & Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserves, and Eagle Lake Golf, Bryant Lake, and Silverwood parks) are just beginning their fall color changes, mostly in the understory. Plan ahead for Spring Lake Trailgate at Spring Lake Regional Park on Sept. 29. Visitors will enjoy miles of stunning fall trails and forests, and they can try rock climbing, slacklining and geocaching, learn about pollinators, sample apple cider and meet live raptors.
Lake Maria State Park - Monticello
A few of the maples are starting to turn orange and red, and the sumac is entirely red, orange and maroon. A drive to the Little Mary Lake Picnic Area is recommended for the best views. Anglers will enjoy canoe and kayak rental, as well as a fishing pier on Little Mary Lake.
Southern Minnesota
While park staff report minimal changes in the leaves, the prairie grasses are stunning. Frontenac, Big Stone Lake and Lake Shetek state parks should offer the strongest displays of prairie grasses this weekend. For some nice fall color views in the grasses and trees, consider a trip to Minneopa State Park.
Frontenac State Park - Frontenac, southeast of Red Wing
The prairie grasses are beautiful shades of gold and rust, with lovely bright yellow goldenrod and purple asters interspersed. The trees, however, remain mostly green. A hike through the prairie and along portions of the Hiking Club Trail will offer the nicest views of the bright red-orange sumac against the stunning prairies. Rent a canoe and paddle around the Pleasant Valley Lakelet for a different view of the fall colors within the park. Just north of the campground is In-Yan-Teopa Rock. Formed by glacial meltwater, this formation is believed to have religious significance to American Indians.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park - Preston
The maple canopies are starting to transform to a brilliant yellow. The Virginia creeper vines are turning a lovely crimson red, many wildflowers continue to bloom, and the prairie grasses are nearing peak shades of gold and red. The River Bottoms Trail across from Historic Forestville Village meanders through the prairies in the park. Maple Ridge Trail is a hiking club trail which travels through different areas of the park. Check out the tours of Historic Forestville offered each Saturday through the end of October, as well as the Mystery Cave tours offered each Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 21.
Minneopa State Park - Mankato
The walnut and ash trees are turning golden, and it won't be long until the rest of the trees follow suit. With recent rains, the waterfall is flowing nicely and is a beautiful backdrop for the fall colors. A stroll to the Seppmann Mill overlook is a popular way to check out the bison herd and fall colors. Check out the historic windmill at the end of Mill Road, and the WPA buildings and historic railings and bridge in the waterfall area.
Big Stone Lake State Park - Ortonville
The colors of the prairie grasses and wildflowers are very vibrant this year due to this summer's abundant rainfall. Take the prairie hike at the Meadowbrook Unit and be dwarfed by big bluestem, Indian grass and switchgrass. The Bonanza Area hillsides seem to glow in the morning and evening sun from the fiery red sumac.
Lake Shetek State Park - Slayton
The big bluestem and Indian grasses in the prairie are nearing peak shades of maroon, rust and gold. The sumac near the monument is a stunning burgundy. The trees remain in the beginning stages of fall color change. Bike the Casey Jones Trail or hike the Monument and Lake Side trails for views of the beautiful prairie grasses. And be sure to visit the Koch Cabin historic site, home to one of the area’s earliest pioneer settlers. The Shetek Monument, a memorial to the 14 settlers buried there, and other early Shetek settler cabin sites are marked with interpretive signs. Canoe, boat and kayak rentals are still available.
Don’t miss the spectacular fall color show! Plan ahead with a customized travel planner from our Explore Minnesota Travel Counselors at 888-VISITMN (888-847-4866), or request your planner at Contact a Travel Counselor. Before you go, be sure to check out these 10 spectacular fall color routes in Minnesota, and plan a stop at an apple orchard or pumpkin patch along the way!
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