Fall is here, and if you’re like me, there is nothing better than the crisp air, warm drinks, and the beautiful colors that this season brings. One of my favorite things to do this season is to find places that have an abundance of fall foliage and take it all in. Especially this year, when COVID has taken away a lot of activities, spending time outdoors to enjoy the scenery is a safe activity for everyone!
It’s time to start making plans, because the fall foliage color peak week is almost here!
The fall colors peak here in the Cedar Rapids area this year between October 12-16, according to the DNR. I have put together a list of places in the area that you can drive to and hike around in order to find serenity and peace from the best reds, yellows, and oranges.
Looking for a drive? Here are some areas in Cedar Rapids that are known to have amazing scenic views; especially in the fall!
Sometimes it’s best to just hop in the car and drive around town to take in the views. Here’s a route that will take you through the prettiest parts of the city!
- East Post Road
- 1st Street NW and Ellis Boulevard
- River Run Road
- Edgewood Road between Blairs Ferry Road and 16th Avenue
- Highway 965 between Cedar Rapids and North Liberty
One of the best parts about living in Cedar Rapids is the abundance of trails the city offers!
Cedar Rapids is home to many in-town trail systems that are surrounded by trees, which makes it seem like you’re not even in the city! These trails are especially scenic during the fall season.
- Sac and Fox Trail
- Indian Creek Nature Center
- Wikiup Hills
- Cedar Valley Nature Trail
- Prairie Park Fishery
- Boyson Park
Looking to get out for a day trip and take a hike?
Here are some scenic parks that are within an hour and a half of the Cedar Rapids area that are perfect for a fall day trip!
- Waterloo – George Wyth State Park
- Mount Vernon – Palisades-Kepler State Park
- North Liberty – Sugar Bottom Trails
- Madrid – Ledges State Park
- Linn County – Pinicon Ridge
- Dundee – Backbone State Park
Get out and enjoy the cooler air and the vivid colors that the season of fall brings!
Let us know your favorite places to see the foliage, and let us know what we missed.
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