The 10 Best Places to See Fall Leaves In and Around NWA
The mornings are brisk, the weather is cooler, and the leaves are soon to be changing colors! Northwest Arkansas and the Ozarks make for some beautiful views this time of year.
We’ve put together a list of spots that’ll have your Instagram feed looking like a pumpkin spice latte commercial faster than you can say “sweater weather.”
Remember—the changing colors happen really quickly, so be ready to hop in your car!
Whitaker Point Trail/Hawksbill Crag
Address: Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Co Rd 406, Kingston, AR 72742
The alternate name for this trail comes from the beak-shaped bluff overlooking the Buffalo National River. From the “billtop” you get an unobstructed view of an incredible, wide open valley and Whitaker Creek.
The well-known spot is quite a bit of a hike and an hour-long drive. It’s worth it though, as you can enjoy the beautiful forest scenery on the way and breathe in the stunning views from atop the sandstone rock head. The trail also features many beautiful waterfalls.
Photographers love this place and it’s a popular destination for couples.
War Eagle Mill
Address: 11045 War Eagle Rd, Rogers
The entire drive from Downtown Rogers out to War Eagle Mill is a treat. If you plan your visit right, you can catch the War Eagle Craft Fair from October 17th – 20th.
We highly recommend picking up some cornbread from the cafe. Another spot near that direction is the Monte Ne Inn. If you’ve never been, trust us, you’re missing out!
Hobbs State Park Conservation Area
Address: 20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756
Located near War Eagle Mill, we can’t make this list without mentioning the largest state park in Arkansas.
Hobbs is one of those barely touched natural gems with over 12,000 acres of land.
You could spend a whole week here and never run out of things to do or trails to hike. Enjoy them on foot, on pedals, or on hoofs. It’s even ADA accessible, meaning even those with disabilities can make the most of it. Tired? Rest in one of their many campsites.
The visitors center is also well maintained offering many interactive activities, programs, history lessons, and exhibits.
Lake Atalanta
Address: Lake Atlanta, Rogers, AR 72756
If you’re in the northern part of NWA and don’t want to make a long drive, consider Lake Atalanta. It has a nice hiking trail which includes a loop around the lake, a nice creek, and a playground for the kiddos.
Once you’re done taking in the outdoors, swing by Downtown Rogers for some holiday shopping and grab a bite to eat!
Kings River Overlook Trail
Address: Wma 19, Huntsville, AR 72740
Wanting to plan a family trip? Well, this back trail suits all your hiking needs both for people and dogs alike! The trail is great for the beginner and veteran trekker.
If you’re more of a river watcher than a river wader, this trail won’t leave you disappointed. As the name suggests, you get a top-down view of the river that cuts through the orange forest. You can also check out Eagle Nest Falls nearby!
Note that this is a foot-only trail. So, make sure you bring comfortable shoes, an ample water supply, and a boat-load of snacks!
Pig Trail Scenic Byway
Address: US Highway 23
Take a ride on your steel hog or just take the family car and enjoy the scenic Pig Trail.
Unfortunately, the amazing scenery, vibrant treeline, and winding roads do not (normally) feature any pigs along the way. Sorry, folks!
In fact, the name has its roots in football, as fans from Little Rock would historically used this trail to attend Razorbacks games.
Don’t think you’ll be satisfied with the Boston Mountains, the brilliant leaf tunnels of the Ozark National Forest, or the Mulberry River along this drive? Well, there are other trails nearby. This includes the Ozark Highlands Trail and Mount Magazine where you can also go to appreciate the autumn season.
Arkansas Grand Canyon
Address: Arkansas Grand Canyon, AR 7, Jasper, AR 72641
Up for a drive? This may not be THE Grand Canyon, but the Arkansas Grand Canyon still offers a pretty amazing view.
Artist Point Saddle Canyon
Address: US Highway 23
Artist Point is a popular viewpoint with a telescope on-site. Just check out some of these photos on Instagram!
White Rock Mountain
Address: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, 214 Bowles Gap Rd, Winslow, AR 72959
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several National Forest hiking trail systems including the 2 mile Rim Trail loop around the top of the mountain, the 17 mile Shores Lake loop trail, and the renowned Ozark Highlands Trail.
All roads leading to White Rock will include some amount of gravel, but some things are worth the road less traveled.
Devil’s Den State Park
Address: 11333 AR-74, West Fork, AR 72774
Located in Lee Creek Valley, this park is home to some of the most popular Arkansas mountain bike and hiking trails. They range from easy difficulty to challenging but equally beautiful routes. You can also go horseback riding!
Thanks to the efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps, visitors can enjoy the stone dam, Lake Devil, and the various well kept trails around the park. These include Yellow Rock Trail, Old Road Trail, and Butterfield Hiking Trail.
You can even stay in one of their cabins and campsites if you really want time to take it all in and fully experience the fiery colors of fall as you traverse Devil’s Den.
