Jay Cooke State Park; photo by Will Stenberg
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.
Recent cool temperatures and longer nighttime hours have accelerated the change in colors, with more fall color visible each day. Parks recommended for good fall color this week and weekend include Bear Head Lake, Jay Cooke and Lake Bemidji state parks.
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 at or nearing peak conditions in the northeast region of the state. This weekend, consider a trip to Bear Head Lake and Jay Cooke state parks.
Scenic State Park - Bigfork, north of Grand Rapids
The red maples are at their peak. Many of the birch and aspen remain 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 and orange. 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.
Bear Head Lake State Park - Ely
Beautiful fall color fills the trees and understory shrubs with significant changes occurring 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, as well as bright yellow paper birch and aspen leaves. The hazel in the understory is 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.
Tettegouche State Park - Silver Bay
The birch and aspen trees are turning vibrant shades of yellow along the Lake Superior shoreline. Inland, the sugar maples continue to turn bright orange and red. There may be an extended fall color season in the maple ridges due to many sections that remain entirely green. Take the trail into Tettegouche Camp from the Lax Lake Road parking area and enjoy a stroll through tunnels of peaking maples interspersed with golden trees. The Baptism River waterfalls are impressive. Three programs will be offered at Tettegouche on Saturday, Oct. 6. Take part in a Photographic Scavenger Hunt beginning at 9 a.m., Antlers and the Animals that Wear Them at 11 a.m., and a Guided Hike to the Cascades at 1 p.m. And just to the north, check out the Art Along the Lake Fall Studio Tour offered through Oct. 7.
Jay Cooke State Park - Carlton
Park staff estimate fall color change at 75 percent and progressing rapidly. Peak fall color is projected to occur early next week with excellent fall color this weekend. Shades of bright yellow are taking over the ash, basswood and aspen trees. The maple colors are varied, ranging from entirely green to stunning shades of red and orange. Red highlights in the sumac and dogwood fill the understory. Stop by the Swinging Bridge to see the autumn colors along the river, or head out to the Oldenburg Point overlooks for panoramic views of the park. With Highway 210 open through the park, take time for the 8-mile drive from Thomson to Highway 23. Fall color reflection on the Fond Du Lac reservoir is beautiful in the morning. Check out the Discovery Table near the Swinging Bridge on Saturday, Oct. 6, and discover some fun nature facts.
Father Hennepin State Park - Isle, southeast edge of Lake Mille Lacs
The ash trees are bright yellow and some of the maples are already stunning shades of red and orange. The oaks are rapidly turning rich reddish tones. Consider a picnic under the changing maple trees at the Lakeview Picnic Area on beautiful Lake Mille Lacs.
Northwest Minnesota
Stunning maples and near peak conditions can be found at Itasca and Lake Bemidji state parks, as well as in the Detroit Lakes area.
Lake Bronson State Park - Lake Bronson, northwest of Karlstad
Most of the trees and shrubs are at peak fall color yet recent winds have brought down some of the leaves. The Hiking Club Trail remains very pretty with most of the shrubs and prairie grasses holding onto the last of their autumn hues. Watch for waterfowl along the river and lake. Climb to the top of the historic WPA water tower for a bird's-eye-view of the colorful transformation. Lake Bronson State Park is a Geocaching Checkpoint, with GPS units to borrow for free. Please inquire at the park office to learn more.
Lake Bemidji State Park - Bemidji
A golden glow has spread through the park. The maples along the park road and Rocky Point Trail are at peak shades of red and yellow. The birch and aspen trees are lightening the forest with vivid yellow leaves. A stroll or drive through the campground, to the picnic area and down to the fishing pier offer the nicest views of the leaves. Consider viewing the fall colors from the water -- canoe, kayak and fishing boat rentals are available through early to mid-October. Two programs will be offered on Saturday, Oct. 6. At 2 p.m., check out Minnesota's Not-so-Evergreen Bog Walk, and at 7 p.m., enjoy an Animal Legends Campfire.
Itasca State Park - north of Park Rapids
The red and sugar maples are at their peak and exhibiting beautiful red, orange-yellow and peach colored leaves. The paper birch, ironwood and elm trees are a deep yellow-gold, the trembling aspen are bright yellow, and the big-tooth aspen are filled with vivid orange-red leaves. The oaks and tamaracks are rapidly changing color. Hike to the Aiton Heights Fire Tower to enjoy the spectacular range in color the maples, birch, basswood, elm and ironwood that are at their peak, and in the aspen, burr and red oak trees that are rapidly changing color. Also recommended are drives along Main Park and Wilderness roads, and hikes along Brower, Ozawindib and Deer Park trails. Touring by boat, kayak or canoe is always good for viewing the fall transformation. Now is the time to enjoy Itasca's lovely fall colors! The restaurant at Douglas Lodge is open through Oct. 7. Two programs will be offered on Saturday, Oct. 6. At 2 p.m., take part in the Aiton Heights Fire Tower Hike, then at 6:30 p.m., kick back and enjoy a performance by Menten and Nye.
Detroit Lakes/Becker County
Fall colors in the Detroit Lakes are at roughly 60% to 75% and nearing their peak -- this weekend will be ideal for taking in all of the spectacular fall color! The maples and red oaks have turned brilliant shades of orange and red. Lovely shades of yellow can be found in birch trees, and the tamarack are rapidly turning a vivid yellow-orange. The dogwoods in the understory are reddish purple, and the sumac remain deep red. Check out 3 recommended Fall Color Auto Tour Routes to plan your scenic drives and autumn hikes. And on Oct. 6, enjoy the performance Arrival from Sweden: The Music of Abba at the Historic Holmes Theatre.
Buffalo River State Park - Moorhead
The big and little bluestem grasses are at their peak and the prairies are filled with gold, rose and purple grasses, with some sections more than 6 feet tall. Most of the trees are also at peak, turning the landscape shades of yellow, orange and red. 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. And through Oct. 20, attend Theatre B Presents "Church & State" in nearby Moorhead.
Central Minnesota
Park staff report rapidly changing colors at a number of central Minnesota parks. Some of the most colorful parks this weekend should be Maplewood and Savanna Portage state parks.
Maplewood State Park - Pelican Rapids
The sugar maples are displaying beautiful scarlet, orange and yellow leaves, and will be at or near peak fall color by this weekend. Contributing to the colorful landscape are golden birch trees, maroon and gold oak trees, and vibrant maroon, gold, blue and bronze prairie grasses. 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 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.
Lake Carlos State Park - Carlos, north of Alexandria
The ash trees have started to turn yellow and some have begun dropping their leaves. The sumac is a beautiful deep red, and the prairie grasses are adding lots of gold and red to the mix. Take a walk around the Hidden Lake Trail for great views of the lake or travel the Prairie Pothole Trail for sweeping views of the prairie and wooded forest edges. Enjoy the rich colors of fall while learning about the history of the park during the Fall Festival this Saturday, Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sibley State Park - north of Willmar
The big bluestem and Indian grasses are at peak shades of reddish-purple and gold. The sugar maples are displaying red, rust and orange in their tree tops. The understory trees are yellow, bronze and maroon. The ash and basswood have shed most of their bronze-colored leaves, but the golden hiking trails look and sound wonderful. 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
The maples and aspen have really popped over the last couple of days, adding patches of bright red and yellow to the forest canopy. The paper birch, black ash and oak are contributing gold and rust 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. The main park drive is a great autumn tour. Stretch your legs by climbing the 100 foot observation tower and view fall color from above the tree line.
Savanna Portage State Park - McGregor
The park has taken on a brighter look and feel. The maples are nearing peak shades of red, orange and coral, and the ash, aspen and ironwood trees are taking on lots of yellow and gold leaves. The underbrush is very golden but starting to thin. Travel the park roads, hike Beaver Pond Trail, or visit Loon and Shumway lakes 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 and understory shrubs. Wild River State Park and the "Big Woods" parks within the Three Rivers Park District should offer the nicest fall color views this weekend.
Wild River State Park - Almelund, east of North Branch
While there are many colorful maples, some are just starting to turn. The ash and basswood, some birch and a few oaks are also taking on more color. There is a lot of color in the sumac and other understory shrubs which are displaying beautiful shades of maroon, red, orange and gold. 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. 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. Enjoy a Fall Color Walk at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6, and uncover the science behind the changing colors along this awe-inspiring walk under the canopy of leaves, through tall prairie grasses and along the scenic St. Croix River.
Interstate State Park - Taylors Falls
More fall color develops each day in the St. Croix River Valley. The basswood trees are very golden, and lovely orange, peach and red leaves can be found in the sumac, maples and oaks. For the best views, hike along the pothole area, the River Trail and the Sandstone Bluffs Trail. On Saturday, Oct. 6, 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
The ash trees are turning yellow and are very bright on sunny days. The cottonwood leaves are turning a light brown and starting to fall on blustery 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. On Friday and Saturday, Oct. 5-6, the Twin Cities Oktoberfest will be held at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. And don't miss the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Health & Fitness Expo held Oct. 5-6 at RiverCentre in downtown St. Paul.
Three Rivers Park District - Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Scott & Wright counties
While there has been a fairly significant change in fall color in many areas within the Three Rivers Park District, peak conditions are still a week or so away. Your best bet for good color this weekend are parks with “Big Woods” forests including Lake Rebecca, Baker, Carver, and Elm Creek park reserves, along with Kingswood Park. Many of the ash, hackberry and elm have turned quite yellow, there are a fair number of maples adding bright red and orange to the mix. The oak dominated parks are just beginning their fall color changes. These parks include Hyland and Murphy-Hanrehan park reserves, Eagle Lake and Bryant Lake regional parks, and Silverwood Park. On Saturday, Oct. 6, head to Gale Woods Farm in Minnetrista and Celebrate the Harvest. Watch as border collies and their handlers showcase their skills in the Star of the North Sheepherding Trial, and see which 1,000+ pound pumpkins top the scales at the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off. Experience sheep shearing, walk a llama, meet working animals, check out professional chef demos, try your hand at a wool craft and explore the farm and gardens on a wagon ride. Food concessions available.
Lake Maria State Park - Monticello
The maples are turning orange and red, and the sumac is entirely orange, red 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
For nice views of colorful trees, shrubs and grasses, consider a trip to Nerstrand and Whitewater state parks.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park - Nerstrand, south of Northfield
Fall color is progressing rapidly in this "Big Woods" park which is known for its spectacular fall color. Many maples are bright shades of yellow, orange and red, and the oaks are turning gold and orange. Take a walk through the prairie to see the reddish-purple big bluestem grasses, highlighted by blooming asters. A drive towards the group camp on the County 29 gravel road will reveal a tunnel of fall color. And be sure to check out the Hidden Falls waterfall. Birding kits are available at the park office.
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. Most trees are turning yellow, but there are pockets of maples and oaks that adding vivid red and orange to the mix. 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. And Frontenac's numerous bluff top overlooks are great for viewing fall color on a larger scale. The campground is beginning to pop with orange maples. A Nature Hike will be offered at 10 a.m. each Saturday from Oct. 6-20. Learn about the environment from a local naturalist while taking photos of the fall colors.
Whitewater State Park -Altura, north of St. Charles
While the walnut, ash and cottonwoods are mostly bare, the maples and oaks are beginning to display nice shades of red, orange and gold. Hike the Valley Trail for the best fall color. Also hike from Chimney Rock to Inspiration Point for some great overlook views. Enjoy a nice fall hike in the beautiful Whitewater Valley, learn about the subtle changes that are occurring in the park and even do a little geocaching during the Colors, Caches and Changes Hike at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6.
Minneopa State Park - Mankato
The walnut and ash trees are very golden, and the maples and oaks are taking on lots of yellow, orange and red leaves. With recent rains, the waterfall is flowing nicely and it is a beautiful backdrop for all of 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.
Lake Shetek State Park - Slayton
The big bluestem and Indian grasses in the prairie are at peak shades of maroon, rust and gold. The sumac near the monument at the entrance to the park is a stunning burgundy. Some of the Amur maples are vibrant red. For the best views of prairie grasses, hike the Casey Jones and Smith Lake trails. Also recommended are Loon Island, the Beach House, Webster Island, Oak Woods Campground, and the Lake Side, Monument and Bluebird trails. 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.
Lac Qui Parle State Park -Watson, northwest of Montevideo
The prairie grasses are nearing peak displays of gold and purple. The ash trees are turning nice shades of yellow, and the sumac is a rich red. The best views of the trees along the lake shore and tall prairies grasses are from the park office overlook. Take part in the Arts Meander Upper Minnesota River Art Crawl at studios throughout the area on Oct. 5-7.
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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