We love some good Indiana fall foliage.
And according to the Farmers’ Almanac, peak fall foliage dates for 2024 are October 5-21 in northern Indiana and October 12-28 in southern Indiana, making this a great time to plan a scenic weekend road trip. To help you make the most of the fall season, we’ve rounded up six of the best spots to experience Indiana’s breathtaking fall foliage.
Related Article: Fall Fun Bucket List Ideas in Indianapolis
Here are the 6 best places to see fall foliage in Indiana:
1. Clifty Falls State Park
Location: Madison, IN
Located on Route 56 just west of Madison, Indiana, this gorgeous state park sits atop the hills overlooking the Ohio River. Explore the park and soak in the stunning fall colors, waterfalls, cliffs, and deep gorges. There are also plenty of trails for hiking, making it a great spot for both walkers and photographers.
2. Turkey Run State Park
Location: Marshall, IN
Turkey Run State Park is stunning all year, but there’s something extra special about it in the fall. The trails take you through some pretty stunning scenery, and you can even cross the suspension bridge over Sugar Creek for an even better view. You’ll feel like you’re walking in the footsteps of the Miami Indians, surrounded by all that history and natural beauty.
Related Article: 6 Best Indiana State Parks to Visit with your Kids
3. Spring Mill State Park
Location: Mitchell, IN
If you’ve never been to Spring Mill, fall is the perfect time to check it out. The park is famous for its oak trees and rolling hills, which look stunning as the leaves change. You can also explore a restored pioneer village that takes you back to the 1800s, and don’t miss the guided tours through the Twin Caves. While you’re there, visit the Virgil I. Grissom Memorial, which honors astronaut Virgil “Gus” Grissom, a Mitchell native and space pioneer.
4. Brown County State Park
Location: Nashville, IN
No list of Indiana fall foliage spots would be complete without Brown County State Park. Covering 16,000 acres, it’s Indiana’s largest state park. You can hike, take scenic drives, or even go on a guided horseback ride to experience the fall colors up close. Afterward, you can explore the charming shops in downtown Nashville, Indiana, and grab a bite to eat.
Tip: For the best panoramic views, drive up to the West Lookout Tower at sunrise. The mist lifting over the hills and valleys makes for a spectacular sight.
5. Parke County
Location: Parke County
Known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” Parke County is like stepping into a postcard, especially in the fall. The area boasts 31 covered bridges, and each one has its own story. It’s the kind of place where you just want to take a slow, scenic drive. Keep in mind, though, that the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival (October 11-20, 2024) draws big crowds, so plan accordingly!
6. Hoosier National Forest – Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower
Location: Near Bloomington, IN
If you’re looking for a unique fall experience, check out the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower in Hoosier National Forest. Built-in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this 133-step tower offers an incredible panoramic view of the treetops in full autumn color. Originally used as a fire lookout until the 1970s, the tower now serves as one of the best spots to enjoy Indiana’s fall beauty. Pro tip: go in the morning or on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowds!
[…] Top 5 Fall Foliage Destinations in Indiana […]
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