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

Fall in Central Minnesota

While most of the northern third of the state is past peak for fall colors, central Minnesota offers great places to view fall colors. Cool overnight temperatures have spurred color change in more of the state, and blustery days have brought a colorful carpet of leaves to the ground in some locations. 

This week, we compiled a list of destinations in west central Minnesota. The gently rolling topography of central Minnesota was created by glaciers retreating 10,000 years ago, and the many lakes in the area make this a popular tourist destination. Lakeshores are a great place to view migrating birds, and many species are crossing Minnesota in mid-October. For a dose of bird migration data, check BirdCast. 

If you're on a fall colors adventure on Saturday, an annular eclipse will occur roughly between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. During an annular eclipse, the sun never goes dark. At maximum eclipse, you can see a dramatic ring of fire around the dark sphere of the moon. Four state parks -- Afton, Forestville-Mystery Cave, Minneopa and Wild River -- will offer naturalist events that include safe solar glasses to view the eclipse.

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Birding and Lakes

Bird watchers have long known that Minnesota state parks offer a treasure trove of opportunities for bird sightings. Bird checklists are available for each Minnesota state park.

Lac Qui Parle State Park has a clear bird connection. The name Lac Qui Parle is a French translation of the name the Dakota gave to the lake which meant “a lake that speaks.” The Dakota referred to the thousands of loud Canada geese, ducks and other waterfowl that stop at the park on their migratory journey south each fall. For a look at geese, eagles and pelicans, go to the lake overlook off Chippewa County Road 32. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out binoculars from Big Stone Lake State Park for a view of migrating waterfowl and songbirds. You’ll be among the thousands of people who have watched the skies over this lake. Did you think Itasca State Park offered Minnesota’s only headwaters? Big Stone Lake is the headwaters of the Minnesota River. Big Stone Lake State Park is split into distinct units and is a nature lover’s paradise, located near the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge.

A view of colors around Lac qui Parle. PHOTO: Terri Dinesen, taken 10/5/23. Above, photo of Big Stone Lake State Park, taken by Mark Denson on 10/11/23.

To complete your journey through the area, head east to the Glacial Lakes State Trail. Visitors can walk, bike or roll on 22 miles of paved trail from Willmar to the Kandiyohi/Stearns County line.* A parallel grass treadway is open to horse riders on a 10-mile segment from Willmar to New London. 

The trail cuts across the border between Minnesota's western tallgrass prairie and eastern deciduous forest. Though much of the area has been cultivated, there are still remnants of virgin prairie, wetlands and scattered woodlots along the trail. Stop on your way to watch for birds and other wildlife.

The Glacial Lake State Trail connects to Sibley State Park via three miles of paved shoulder along County Road 148. 

*Visitors should note that a segment of the state trail near Hawick, Minn. is closed due to a road construction project. 

Glacial Lakes State Park

Enjoy fishing, paddling or birding at Signalness (Mountain) Lake. PHOTO: Lucas Olson, 10/8/23.

From forest to prairie to a crystal clear spring-fed lake, this park offers a variety of scenery.

Many species of prairie and woodland birds make their home at Glacial Lakes State Park. Take the Prairie-Woodland Interpretive Trail or visit marshland areas to see a variety of bird and mammal life. Squirrels, deer, beaver, wood ducks, raccoons, pileated woodpeckers and occasionally coyotes can be seen. Watch for waterfowl and wildlife at the beach, with a view of the spring-fed waters of Signalness (Mountain) Lake.

True to its name, Glacial Lakes State Park features evidence of glaciers from a very distant chapter of state history. The 10- to 19-mile-wide band of glacial hills shows the path of glacial ice advancement, shearing hills and bluffs down to the bedrock, and leaving rocks, gravel and dirt. Today, prairie grasses add a sprinkle of color to fall landscape, like those along Mardy’s Trail.

Cedar Waxwing

Commonly found throughout Minnesota, the cedar waxwing is on the birding checklist for 73 of 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas. 

PHOTO: Connie Cox

Look for cedar waxwings in wooded areas of all kinds, and at orchards or gardens where they will find fruit and berries. These birds are known for their high-pitched, trilling calls that they use for communication. They are social birds and often vocalize while perched in flocks. If you see one cedar waxwing, there are likely more nearby, as they travel in flocks year round. Cedar waxwings are a favorite of birders because of their distinctive appearance, graceful and acrobatic flight patterns, and sociable nature. 

While some populations migrate to the southeastern United States in the winter, not all will migrate. It's less common to see cedar waxwings in Minnesota in winter, but they are common in spring, summer and fall. 

Who's watching who?

There have been many reports of deer sightings at Wild River State Park. In this photo, the deer are watching as closely as the photographer. 

PHOTO: Jenna Martin, taken 10/7/23 at Wild River State Park.

Share your favorite Minnesota state park, trail and recreation area fall photos and stories. Upload your photo to our website for a chance to be featured in the weekly Fall Color Update and our social media channels.