Where to See Fall Foliage in Texas
When most people think of the Lone Star State, they picture hot summer days, sprawling ranches, and desert landscapes. But every fall season, Texas puts on a dazzling show of autumn colors that rivals many northern states—if you know where (and when) to look. Thanks to the state’s diverse landscapes, from wooded areas in northeast Texas to rugged terrain out west, nature lovers can enjoy gorgeous fall colors without ever leaving home. The best way to soak it all in? A Texas road trip.
Below are some of the best places to see beautiful fall foliage across Texas State Parks, national parks, and hidden gems. We’ll cover when the leaves change, the best time to visit, and why these destinations deserve a spot on your autumn bucket list. If you are looking for even more fun check out our 10 Best Fall Festivals in Texas.
Table of Contents
Garner State Park – Uvalde
Located along the Frio River in Garner State Park is a popular destination year-round, but during the fall months it becomes one of the best places to experience beautiful scenery. The Uvalde bigtooth maples here are famous for their vibrant hues of red, gold, and orange. Hike up Old Baldy for a scenic overlook of colorful trees, limestone bluffs, and winding waterways. With miles of trails, picnic tables, and cozy cabin rentals, it’s a great spot for a fall weekend getaway. The best time to visit is late October through early November, when cooler weather helps spark the color change.
Lost Maples State Natural Area – Vanderpool
No list of the best fall foliage in Texas would be complete without Lost Maples State Natural Area. Known for its stands of red maple trees, this hidden gem offers some of the best fall color in the Lone Star State. The East Trail takes you past rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and streams lined with deciduous trees. The park’s namesake maples put on their show in late October and peak color usually lasts into early November. Just remember—Lost Maples is no secret. Parking lots fill up quickly, so arrive early to avoid traffic congestion.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park – West Texas
For dramatic, colorful trees set against rugged mountains, Guadalupe Mountains National Park delivers. The McKittrick Canyon trail is one of the best fall foliage hikes in the state, showcasing vibrant hues from red maple trees and oak woodlands. The onset of fall colors here typically starts in late October, with peak fall foliage in early November. Cooler weather makes this a perfect time of year for mountain biking, hiking, or a scenic drive through the park’s diverse landscapes. It’s a great place for nature lovers seeking both beautiful colors and challenging trails.
Daingerfield State Park – Northeast Texas
In northeast Texas, Daingerfield State Park is known for its wooded areas filled with sweetgums, maples, and oaks that burst into autumn colors. The lake reflects the beautiful fall foliage, making it a perfect place for photography. This park is a great spot for a day trip or a weekend in a cozy cabin. The best fall color here usually arrives in early November, though weather conditions can push the peak time into late November.
Tyler State Park – East Texas
Another East Texas gem, Tyler State Park is a popular destination for families during the fall season. Expect vibrant hues from oak, maple, and sweetgum trees, along with trails winding around the lake. With picnic tables, easy hike options, and colorful trees, it’s a great way to enjoy crisp air and cooler weather. The park is especially beautiful in early November, making it one of the best fall foliage spots in the region.
Lake Bob Sandlin State Park – Pittsburg
Lake Bob Sandlin State Park offers a mix of wooded areas, lakeside views, and some of the oldest bald cypress trees in Texas. In recent years, it has become a go-to for travelers looking for a less-crowded alternative to Lost Maples. Autumn colors peak in early November, and the combination of red maple trees and golden cypress reflections on the water creates beautiful scenery. This is also a perfect time for fishing, boating, or just enjoying the crisp air along the shoreline.
Guadalupe River State Park – Spring Branch
Just north of San Antonio, Guadalupe River State Park is a great place for an easy day trip during the fall months. Deciduous trees along the river provide vibrant hues, and limestone bluffs make for a scenic backdrop. The beautiful fall colors usually arrive in late October and can last into late November, depending on cold fronts and other weather conditions. The park’s trails are also great for mountain biking, giving outdoor enthusiasts a colorful ride.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park – Amarillo
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Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and miles of trails. While the canyon is stunning year-round, the fall season brings bursts of yellow cottonwoods and other colorful trees along the canyon floor. The onset of fall colors usually begins in late September, with peak color in early October. Cooler weather makes it a great time for hiking or camping without the scorching heat of the warmer months.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden – North Texas
Not every fall foliage destination in Texas requires a road trip. For those in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a botanical garden filled with deciduous trees that put on a gorgeous fall colors show. It’s a great spot for nature lovers who want a day trip without leaving the city. Expect beautiful fall foliage in late October through early December.
Downtown Austin & Beyond
If you’re based in downtown Austin, you don’t have to travel far to see colorful trees. The city’s parks, trails, and riverside areas are lined with deciduous trees that change throughout the fall months. Pair your foliage sightseeing with some live music, and you’ve got the perfect time in the capital city. From there, a scenic drive into the Texas Hill Country reveals more of the best fall foliage in the Lone Star State, especially around Medina Lake and other hidden gems.
Tips for Chasing Texas Fall Colors
- Best Time: The best fall color usually appears from late October to early December, depending on location and weather conditions.
- Peak Color: Expect peak time to vary—Lost Maples and Garner peak earlier, while northeast Texas parks often peak in early to late November.
- Weather Matters: A strong cold front can speed up color change, while warmer months can delay it.
- Avoid Crowds: Some parks have limited parking lots—arrive early or visit on weekdays to avoid traffic congestion.
- Stay Cozy: Book a cozy cabin in advance for the perfect place to enjoy crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.
Final Thoughts
Texas may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of vibrant hues and gorgeous fall colors, but it should be. From the uvalde bigtooth maples along the Frio River to the towering red maple trees of McKittrick Canyon, the Lone Star State offers some of the best fall foliage in the country. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip, a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country, or a longer road trip to national parks, the beautiful scenery and colorful trees make fall the perfect time to explore.
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