photo courtesy of Clifty Falls State Park

According to the Farmers’ Almanac, Indiana’s peak fall foliage dates for 2018 are Oct. 5-21 for the northern half of the state and Oct. 12-28 for points south, making this a great time to plan a scenic weekend road trip.

Here are our Top 5 Favorite Spots to witness fall in all its glory:

Clifty Falls State Park

Located on Route 56 just west of Madison, Indiana, this gorgeous state park sits atop the hills overlooking the Ohio River. Enjoy a scenic winding drive thru the park while taking in picturesque waterfalls, cliffs, and steep gorges, all bathed in the beauty of fall. There are also a number of well-established trails to explore by foot. This is a great park for photo enthusiasts.

Turkey Run State Park

Nestled along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, Turkey Run State Park is glorious year-round, but especially in the fall. Walk in the footsteps of the Miami Indians along breathtaking trails that wind through sandstone cliffs and gorges. Get a sweeping view of the aged forests that line Sugar Creek from the park’s Suspension Bridge.

photo courtesy of Turkey Run State Park

Spring Mill State Park

Set against a backdrop of stately oaks and rolling scenic hills outside Mitchell, Indiana, Spring Mill State Park offers scenic vistas bustling with activity. Explore the restored pioneer village that will transport you to the 1800s. Head underground on a guided tour through Twin Caves. While in the area, be sure to visit the Virgil I. Grissom Memorial – a tribute to astronaut Virgil I. “Guss” Grissom, a native of Mitchell, who was a pioneer in the United States space program.

photo courtesy of Spring Mill State Park

Brown County State Park

Of course, no Indiana fall foliage list would be complete without Brown County State Park. At 16,000 acres, this is Indiana’s largest state park, offering ample hiking trails, scenic drives as well as guided horseback rides that get you up close and personal with the splendor of fall. Nearby, downtown Nashville, Indiana, is a great place to explore quaint shops and grab a bite to eat.

photo courtesy of Brown County State Park

Parke County

With a whopping 31 covered bridges, Parke County has earned the title of “Covered Bridge Capital of the World”! And there is no better time to drive through this scenic destination than fall. Each bridge has a story to tell – learn more here before setting out on your journey. (Note, the very popular Covered Bridge Festival runs from 10/12 through 10/21 and the area will be more crowded than usual during this time.) While in the area, be sure to check out the area’s Amish Country, as well as the historic Bridgeton Mill where you can purchase stone ground products, Amish products, snacks, souvenirs and ice cream.

photo courtesy of Parke County