Each year outdoor enthusiasts, like myself, look forward to the changing of the leaves. Arkansas is absolutely gorgeous in the fall and if you want to view fall foliage in Arkansas, read on to discover the best places and times to witness this magnificent natural wonder.
With two and a half million acres of protected, national forests, Arkansas is one of the most beautiful places in the country to view fall foliage. Tourists come from all around to behold the splendor of the Ozark, Ouachita and St. Francis National Forests in fall. These parks are also among the most popular places to view fall foliage in Arkansas.
View Fall Foliage in Arkansas – The OzarkMountain Region
The Ozark Mountain region of Arkansas is located in the northern most part of the state. The color changes begin here around the end of September. The peak for this region occurs around late October, making this the optimal time to view fall foliage in Arkansas in the Ozark Mountain Region.
The black gum trees in this area are striking at their peak, with the leaves turning a deep, brilliant red. This is the best place to view fall foliage in Arkansas. The beauties of the mountain forests are unrivaled in the fall season.
View Fall Foliage in Arkansas – Arkansas RiverValley
The Arkansas River Valley is located in central part of the state. The color changes begin here around early October, following the changes of the Ozark Mountain Region by about a week. The peak for this region occurs around early November, making this the best time to view fall foliage in Arkansas in the Arkansas River Valley.
View Fall Foliage in Arkansas – Delta Region
The Delta region of Arkansas is located in the extreme eastern part of the state. The color changes begin here around early to mid October. The peak for this region occurs in early to mid November, making this the optimal time to view fall foliage in Arkansas in the Delta Region.
View Fall Foliage in Arkansas – Gulf Coastal Plain
The Gulf Coastal Plain of Arkansas is located in the southern most part of the state. The color change begins here in early to mid October. The peak for this area occurs around early to mid November, making this the best time to view fall foliage in Arkansas in the Delta Region.
Tips for Planning a Trip to View Fall Foliage in Arkansas
The fall months are amongst the most popular travel months in the state because everyone wants to view fall foliage in Arkansas. As such, it is recommended by the Parks department that you make travel reservations as early as possible to view fall foliage in Arkansas.
Obtain a state map to plan your driving tours to view fall foliage in Arkansas or contact the Arkansas Department of Parks for help planning your trip to view fall foliage in Arkansas. Try to align your trip with the peak color times as outlined above. You may even want to travel throughout the state as each region hits its peak.
Whatever your plans, visiting the natural state in the fall is a wonder and you won’t be disappointed with the beauty you find here. From breathtaking mountain vistas to the magnificent hardwood forests of our National Parks, the beauty of Arkansas is sure to move you. View fall foliage in Arkansas this year for a relaxing family getaway.
Sources:
http://www.arkansas.com/calendar/fall_foliage_pg1.aspx
