Across the nation, fall means football, hot coffee, pumpkins, and of course, gorgeous Autumn leaves. If you live on the East coast, you might travel to the Appalachians, which are known for brilliant red and orange leaves this time of year. The trees in the Northeast and Midwest also put on stunning displays. But what about Texas?
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It's a common misconception that trees change color due to a drop in temperature, but actually, it's from the shorter days. Less daylight leads to a decline in chlorophyll, the substance that feeds the leaves and makes them green. Texas may not get as much of the cool weather as other parts of the country, but the daylight does wan in the fall.
The Lone Star State may not be known for fall foliage, but that doesn't mean you can't find it here. You just need to know where to look. Here are 10 places you can visit if you want to see gorgeous fall foliage in Texas.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Just 18 miles North of the Texas Hill Country wine and peach destination of Fredericksburg sits a pink granite dome that is just as magical as its name suggests. Enchanted Rock has drawn visitors for over 12,000 years scientists believe, evidenced by the bedrock mortars left by prehistoric residents of the area. In the Fall, the trees surrounding the granite batholith turn beautiful shades of red, rust and yellow. A hike up the Summit Trail is easier during the cool months, and affords a beautiful view of the surrounding scenery.
Cooper Lake State Park
Outside the hustle and bustle of Dallas near Sulfur Springs, you'll find the peaceful tranquility of Cooper Lakes State Park. A favorite spot for fishing, Cooper Lakes offers beautiful scenery and idyllic cabins for a refreshing Fall retreat amid the changing leaves.
Caprock Canyons State Park
You'll find more than just bison at Caprock Canyons State Park. The park boasts all kinds of wildlife, like pronghorn antelope, Mexican free tailed bats and even golden eagles (rare though they are). In addition to all that, every year in the Fall the cottonwood trees that fill the park turn a bright yellow color, changing the landscape of the park from orange and green to golden, so there's plenty of fascinating sights for visitors to see.
Lost Maples State Natural Area
The Lost Maples State Natural Area is a beautiful place in Bandera County Northwest of San Antonio where you can see Uvalde bigtooth maple trees. Ten miles of trails weave their way through the park among the trees which turn shades of crimson and terra-cotta during the Autumn months.
Lake Bob Sandlin State Park
At Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, you'll find redbud, oak, pine, dogwood, hickory and maple trees that are known for turning vibrant colors in Autumn. While you're enjoying the view, take in some fishing or birding, both of which are popular pastimes at the park.
READ MORE: 7 Best Places to Get the Most out of Autumn in Texas
Davis Mountains State Park
tpwd.texas.gov
The foothills of the Davis Mountains are one of the most scenic destinations in all of the Texas. In Autumn, the changing oak foliage lights up the desert landscape.
Dangerfield State Park
Facebook/Daingerfield State Parks - Texas Parks and Wildlife
When fall rolls around, the maples, sweetgum and oak at Daingerfield State Park blaze hues of red, orange and yellow. This is a great place to observe wildlife and relax along the water.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
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Palo Duro Canyon is a gorgeous desert experience during the fall monhs. With the cooler weather and trees changing hues to match the red canyon walls, this park is a feast for the eyes.
Garner State Park
Garner State Park
Garner State Park is one of the most beautiful places in Texas year round, but is extra beautiful during the autumn. Come fall, the trees turn rich hues of orange and yellow.
Winnsboro Autumn Trails
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From Sept. 30 through Oct. 28, Winnsboro celebrates the autumn foliage with a variety of activities. Find out more here.
