Fall Color Update - Week 2 🍂

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Map of the state of Minnesota in different shades of green and yellow to show fall color changes.

Click on the map for a complete fall color report from around the state.

Fall Color Prediction: Prepare for the Unexpected

Peak fall color will be more unpredictable this year due to the severe drought that has affected much of the state. Leaf peepers will have to wait and see what lies ahead, and prepare to be surprised by unexpected patches of bright color. "If you see pockets of beautiful, vibrant color, that's going to be the bonus this year. The main thing is to go outside — it's good for our physical and mental health," recommends Val Cervenka, Forest Health Program Coordinator and official MN DNR fall color predictor.

Scroll down for trip ideas, hidden gems and insider tips to enjoy fall outdoors!

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Two State Parks... and a Scenic Drive

Dry creek with rocks exposed, trees in the background in greens and yellows, all crowned with a mostly cloudy sky and a ray of sunshine

Fall 2021 at Lake Bronson State Park. PHOTO: Cassandra Rondorf, taken 9/11/21

Signs of fall are evident throughout Old Mill State Park. Stop in to see a steam-powered flour mill that operated from the late 1800s until 1937. Pack a lunch and enjoy the 360 degree view of fall in the picnic area or take a hike along the Agassiz trail (Hiking Club trail), watching the colors change between the woodlands and the prairie.

Travel about 30 miles (48 km) north to visit Lake Bronson State Park (photo above) and get a bird's-eye view of aspen parkland habitat from the largest observation tower in our state park system. History buffs can't miss the 1930s-era Works Progress Administration buildings and historic sites throughout the park. Oaks, aspens, and other trees are slowly changing from green to the traditional mix of fall colors, although more muted due to the drought.

When it’s time to leave, consider taking the Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway, named for the northern lights which frequently appear in this northern location. Or go south via the 414-mile (666 km) King of Trails Scenic Byway on the western border of Minnesota.

Phone with map, Mississippi Headwaters in background. You, Avenza Maps and never getting lost. Just Add Nature. Avenza Maps App on iOS and Android

Superior Beach Time

A person sitting on a pebble beach looking towards the water. A large rock with bright orange spots in the foreground. Fall color trees in background

Iona’s Beach SNA (Scientific and Natural Area) protects one of the largest and least disturbed Lake Superior beaches in Lake County. The highlights? A beautiful view of Lake Superior, a colorful beach made up of pink rhyolite rocks, and a shoreline bordered by aspen and birch that are already turning yellow this fall!

Get there in style: Walk, ride or roll (on your wheelchair or skates!) on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, a paved trail for non-motorized use. The trail features breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior and connects communities and attractions along the North Shore. The longest completed segment of the trail stretches almost 18 miles (29 km) from Gooseberry Falls State Park to Beaver Bay.

The Charm of Southwestern Minnesota

Woman standing by trail with prairie grass and creek in background

"Southwestern Minnesota has so much charm. One minute you can see for miles and miles and the next you are in rolling bluffs. Definitely a weekend well spent."

Destination: Split Rock Creek State Park

Taken: 9/11/21

Credit and Quote: Kaytee Schulz

Share your favorite state park, trail and rec area autumnal pics and stories. Tag us on Instagram @mnstateparksandtrails and use #YourMNFallFavorites for a chance to be featured in the weekly Fall Color Update and our social channels.