Here is your guide on where to see bright yellows, deep reds and purples, and bronze and orange fall colors in Illinois.
WINNEBAGO COUNTY FOREST PRESERVE
The Winnebago County Forest Preserve is by far my favorite underrated park in the Rockford area. This park offers hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, or simply bird watching. With many interesting areas to explore and a breathtaking fall views in fall, this park has something for everyone,
MORTON ARBORETUM
If you want to see beautiful fall colors, then you should visit the Morton Arboretum in October. There are 16 miles of trails where you can see the fiery orange, warm gold, and vivid crimson-colored leaves. With a variety of fun activities for people of all ages, it is an excellent family destination. If you want a good scare, I recommend the Fright in the Forest hike.
CAP SAUERS HOLDING NATURE PRESERVE
The Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve is the largest in northeastern Illinois. Walking on the gravel trails and footpaths in this sprawling preserve is probably the closest you’ll get to Illinois’s wilderness. This is one of my favorite fall hiking destinations.
PALOS TRAIL SYSTEM
Experience the beauty of fall, while navigating Palos’ unmarked trails. There are many interesting sights within this system of trails. True adventure seekers may want to dive deeper into the forests and take in the majestic fall beauty.
ILLINOIS GREAT RIVER ROAD
This is an excellent choice for a weekend trip or an extended fall journey. The Great River Road offers a panoramic view of fall colors in Illinois. From your car, you can enjoy the glorious fall sights that the great river provides.
GARDEN OF THE GODS
The Garden of the Gods offers epic fall colors from the towering rock formations, you will see stunning views of the changing leaves. The best time to visit is the early morning, when the magnificent fall views are at their best.
WHITE PINES FOREST STATE PARK
Located in the heart of the Rock River Valley, White Pines Forest State Park is perfect for family getaways. The peaceful woods, hiking trails, top-notch food, and services make this park one of my favorite places. While you are here, you must try their delicious chicken casserole.
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK
With its spectacular canyons, this is an excellent place to view amazing fall colors. At the well-known waterfalls, the greens of summer have been replaced by the autumn yellows. This creates a backdrop of warm, earthy tones. Oaks, hickories, and other native trees line the bluffs, creating a striking view that complements the rock formation.
SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST
Shawnee National Forest, in Harrisburg, is another excellent place to view fall colors. Red oak, hickories, and sassafras form a yellow and orange tapestry, while the white oak has a deep red hue in fall. This makes it a perfect time to hike on the trails.