Where and when fall foliage will peak in Indiana
Get out your sweaters. Cue up Taylor Swift (Midnights releases Oct. 21!). Grab your seasonal pumpkin items.
That’s right, fall is almost here and with that comes one of Indiana’s pride and joys — fall foliage season.
Here’s where to see leaves of every color (well, red, orange and yellow, mostly) in the Hoosier State this year:
When does fall start?
The season begins on the Fall Equinox, which happens Sept. 22, 2022.
When will the leaves’ colors start to change?
According to the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Map, foliage in most of Indiana will be “near peak” by Oct. 24 and at full “peak” by Oct. 31 — how appropriate!
The map, released annually, shows how fall colors will change on a week-by-week basis and while no tool can be 100% accurate, strives to provide foliage hopefuls with a guide for when to see autumn colors.
For the northern part of the state, that schedule is accelerated by about a week, at “near peak” by Oct. 17 and full peak by Oct. 24. The state will be "past peak" by Nov. 7, according to the map.
Plan your autumn excursions accordingly.
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Indiana state parks to boast fall colors
Of course, you may be able to see fall foliage right in your own backyard. But if you're wanting to get out and explore Indiana's parks, here are some options with autumn colors galore.
Brown County State Park
Brown County is ready for you to come see fall foliage. The state park in Nashville is so well-known for its autumnal colors that it has a whole section on its website dedicated to it.
There’s a variety of different trails within the park that provide an excellent place to experience fall. And for those who want to see from the highest points in the park, the Seven Vistas will provide a stellar view (and perfect Instagram photos).
Brown County State Park's address is 1801 Indiana 46 East in Nashville.
Turkey Run State Park
Located in Marshall, this state park boasts both gorgeous fall colors as well as waterfalls. Plus, it even has a turkey in the name — completely made for autumnal vibes.
The park's address is 8121 Park Road in Marshall.
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Indiana Dunes
While you may not associate Lake Michigan with fall, Indiana Dunes, both state and national park sides, have plenty to offer in the colder months (that doesn’t involve swimming in freezing water.) Hike along the trails and observe the wildlife that comes out during colder weather.
For more, visit www.indianadunes.com. The address for the national park is 1215 N. State Road 49 in Porter; and the address for the state park is 1600 N. 25 East in Chesterton.
Fort Harrison State Park
For Central Indiana residents who don’t want to venture too far from home to be in nature, Fort Harrison State Park is for you. The park boasts gorgeous trees and bountiful hiking trails — all within Marion County.
The park's address is 6000 N. Post Road in Indianapolis.
Clifty Falls State Park
This state park in Jefferson County boasts glorious waterfalls in addition to tons of trees with foliage galore. Visit to hike or camp, though campground reservations must be made in advance. And as a bonus, for wannabe archaeologists, Clifty Creek's bed contains years of history through fossil remnants.
The park's address is 2221 Clifty Drive in Madison.
Hoosier National Forest
Of course, what better place to see leaves than a forest full of trees? Hoosier National Forest, located in south central Indiana, is familiar with leaf enthusiasts and recommends several hikes, drives and camping destinations for quintessential fall vibes, including climbing the Hickory Ridge Tower, hiking Hemlock Cliffs or camping at Hardin Ridge Recreation Area near Monroe Lake.
Getting schooled
University of Notre Dame
The iconic Golden Dome shot framed by leaves is a classic fall view on campus. And for what it’s worth, the campus is (probably) totally Taylor Swift approved.
If you’re wanting to get off campus, nearby Potato Creek State Park is sure to have fall views galore.
IU Bloomington
Down in Monroe County, the leaves peak a little later than up north but are just as gorgeous in the fall. Head down to Bloomington to stroll amongst the leaves and visit one of the town’s many local restaurants or coffee shops. What could be better?
Recently Bloomington was ranked the No. 1 city in the Midwest to view fall foliage Rocket Homes and researchers at BestPlaces.net. According to the study, the best day to see fall colors in Bloomington is Oct. 20.
Purdue University
Boilermakers, rejoice — a trip to Lafayette in the fall months will certainly include some fall views. The campus’ varied trees — from oaks to maples and more — will surely give all the fall colors we’ve been waiting for.
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Why do leaves change color in the fall?
Leaves change colors when overnight temperatures get cooler and days get shorter, the Brown County website said. Chlorophyll, which is the chemical that gives many trees their green pigment, absorbs sunlight, but as days shorten, chlorophyll production stops and trees begin to stop. This allows other colors, like orange, red, or yellow, to shine through.
When will the leaves fall?
Leaves usually start to turn brown and leave trees bare and sticklike. But why do the autumn leaves fall “like pieces into place,” to quote Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well?”
The trees shed leaves in the fall so that the tree can retain water before chilling winter winds blow through and decimate its sources for hydration, according to Brown County State Park's FAQ. It’s natural self-preservation — just like cutting yourself off after too many sad songs.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana fall leaves: When, where colorful foliage will peak statewide
