A Natural Show
From the end of September through the middle of November, Mother Nature puts on an incredible display of color across Missouri. Leaf peepers travel throughout the Show-Me State to see trees transition from deep green to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, copper and red. Before you hit the road for a fall trip, check out a few tips on how to make the most of your autumn adventure.
Where To Go
Fall color begins in the northern part of the state and gradually moves southward with peak color occurring in mid to late October. The Missouri Department of Conservation has a helpful fall color tracker that makes it easy to check the status of each region in the state.
Generally speaking, trees that are most exposed to direct sunlight during the fall produce more vibrant leaves. That’s one reason brilliantly colored foliage appears along the slopes of mountains and hills.
Visit one of the many fall festivals throughout the state to round out your adventure. And no road trip would be complete without some Missouri-made snacks to enjoy along the way.
Northwest Missouri
- Watkins Mill State Park: Fish for bass, catfish and crappie while surrounded by the beauty of fall.
- Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area: A quick trip from Kansas City, this conservation area is home to fields, forests, ponds and a scenic section of Burr Oak Creek.
- Weston Red Barn Farm: Enjoy hayrides, pumpkin and apple picking, a country store and of course, beautiful fall colors.
Northeast Missouri
- Hannibal: Take in stunning views of the Mississippi River from Lover’s Leap before exploring Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum.
- St. Louis Citygarden: Sculptures, fountains and gorgeous fall hues come together in an urban park with the world-famous Gateway Arch as a backdrop.
- Klondike Park: Colorful foliage shines against the bright white stone at this repurposed silica sand quarry.
Central Missouri
- Missouri River Valley, Rocheport: Enjoy the scenery along the Katy Trail, and sip a Missouri varietal at one of the vineyards in the region.
- Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area: Admire the Missouri River from the dramatic bluffs just outside Columbia.
- Lake of the Ozarks: One of Missouri’s most popular lakes is also home to some of the best fall color in the state.
Southeast Missouri
- Eminence: Start your southeast Missouri adventure in Eminence, a small town located near the banks of the Jacks Fork River.
- Mark Twain National Forest: Immerse yourself in fall color on a drive through this national forest.
- Ozark National Scenic Riverways: Enjoy acres of pristine landscape lining the banks of the Current and Jacks Fork rivers during a fall float trip.
Southwest Missouri
- River of Life Farm: Sip coffee at your cozy cabin above rolling Ozark forests and the North Fork River.
- Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Explore the tree-lined trails and streams at this 10,000-acre “unspoiled Ozark paradise.”
- Route 66: You’ll find plenty of color on display as you cruise down the “Mother Road” through southwest Missouri.
If you’re heading out to see fall color in Missouri, share your adventures with us on Facebook, X and Instagram.