Iowa's towns are filled with tree-lined streets that turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the autumn. And while that makes for a beautiful scene that looks good on a postcard, it's not the only way to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall.
If you really want to kick through piles of leaves drifting into the treeline or gaze out on a stretch of color so vibrant it almost shines, take a hike at Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry, Iowa for some of the best color in the state.
There are a host of trails at this National Monument, meaning you can definitely spend the entire day here.
For a medium length (1.7-mile) hike with a mix of wide vistas and woody glens, take the Eagle Rock, Fire Point, and Little Bear Loop trail starting from near the visitors center and heading north.
Along with the beautiful colors, you will pass some of the 200 ancient mounds that give this park its name.
If you embark on this trail and just can’t bear to turn around, keep going to the Twin View and Third Scenic View for a total of a 3.5-mile hike.
On the southern side of the monument, you can hike the Marching Bear Group and Founder’s Pond Overlook for more beautiful scenery.
Now, if you are a veteran at chasing fall colors, you know that timing is everything.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources recommends heading out to view the colors in Northeast Iowa from the end of September through the second week of October.
Pros at this will also already know that different species of trees boast different colored leaves and hang onto their leaves for varying durations. For example, walnut leaves will turn yellow and drop before most other trees, while white oaks can turn reddish brown and will hang onto their leaves sometimes until spring.
Make this fall one to remember as you immerse yourself in the sights and crisp scent of autumn at Effigy Mounds National Monument. Learn more at the National Park Service website here.
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