I had been hoping to find some fall color on this trip, but quickly learned that while Great River Bluffs is known for phenomenal fall color, peak season doesn’t come around until mid to late October. That didn’t stop me from exploring the park to find the best places to view fall colors later this autumn and I’m excited to share with you what I discovered.

The first hike I went on was the King’s Bluff Trail, a three-mile out-and-back trail that led me through rolling hills and farmlands all the way to the Mississippi River. Along the way I saw a few deer as well as eagles soaring above and even a little caterpillar on a leaf. I stopped for a while at the overlook and did a quick sketch of the river valley which overlooks into Wisconsin. Only a handful of trees were just starting to turn, but I could tell it will be exploding with color in just a few weeks.

The next trail I took led me to the North and South Overlooks, each a quick tenth of a mile hike and each boasting of spectacular views. These overlooks are located within the picnicking grounds and are a perfect place to visit for all ages and abilities. Some of the trees along these paths were the first to turn, littering the trail with their bright colored leaves.

My final hike was my favorite one. The less-than-one-mile out-and-back trail to Orchard Overlook was quick and so rewarding. This viewpoint offers an almost 360-degree view of the rolling hills of the historic Mississippi River Valley. Eagles were soaring above and below me from this vantage point and there was plenty of space and seating to stop and rest awhile. A great place for a family hike. Similar to my other stops from the day, only some of the trees were just starting to change color, but that didn’t stop my imagination. For my final sketch of the day, I imagined what I think this view will look like in just a few short weeks when the trees are overcome with brilliant fall color. I can’t wait to come back to this spot later this fall and see if what I drew becomes reality.

I love sketching and exploring Minnesota state parks and trails. Painting helps me observe and savor the beauty around me in a way that forces me to slow down and appreciate it more. I encourage everyone to try it out, even if they don’t believe they have the ability. I encourage you too, even if you say you can’t draw. Why not give it a try? Even just painting the colors you see, one single leaf on the ground, or the blue sky above you can help you appreciate the natural spaces you find yourself in. In a world that seems to keep us going faster and faster, it’s nice to slow down for a bit and take your time to enjoy a Minnesota state park or rail.

That makes Glacial Lakes State Park in western Minnesota one of the most unique areas in the Midwest. The park contains a 10- to 19-mile-wide band of glacial hills that extend from Detroit Lakes to Willmar.

Feeling a tad stressed? Come to the park and drink in a beautiful fall view that’s certain to sooth. Should anyone doubt that an Ice Age took place, the sheared off hills and bluffs will dispel that thought. As you breathe deep and take in the view, think of the thousands of humans before you who saw the same beauty and felt the same peace.

This jewel of a park begs for exploration. Just before sunset, take the 2.5-mile hike to the park’s highest peak and absorb the low-light glowing colors of the prairie. A shorter 1.5-mile hike around Signalness Lake will bring wildlife into view -- woodland birds and migrating ducks. If you spend an afternoon here, rent a canoe, kayak or rowboat and paddle the 56-acre Signalness Lake. Note the amazing clarity of the water where you’ll spot fish and turtles.

Horse riders can bring their animals in for the 11 miles of horse trails through the prairie. Maybe you are an amateur astronomist. This park’s topography make it an excellent location for star gazing. Those with energy to burn might bike into nearby Starbucks -- enjoy a lunch at a restaurant or an ice cream cone from Shirley’s -- followed by a bike ride back to the park.

Along the way you won’t see maple trees cloaked in red at Glacial Hills State Park. But you will see big and little bluestem grass, Indian grass, coneflowers, and goldenrods -- stretched as far as your eyes can reach. Enjoy this unique, living memorial to the Ice Age.