2025 Iowa leaf-peeping guide: When & where to see fall colors

Fall—it’s the most colorful time of the year. Plan the perfect Iowa leaf-peeping adventure with our guide to the best places and times to see fall foliage. 

There is no wrong time to enjoy Iowa’s natural beauty (except, perhaps, during an extreme weather event), but the Hawkeye State is especially stunning from September to November when the fall colors are at their peak. In Iowa, leaf peeping is a popular seasonal activity that’s affordable, family friendly, and fun. However, seeing Iowa’s fall foliage at its finest—and most colorful—requires a bit of planning.

Keep reading to discover the best dates and places to go leaf peeping in Iowa. We also share some practical tips to help you make the most of your experience.

When to go leaf peeping in Iowa

The Iowa leaf-peeping season typically begins in October—though you can see some color change as early as September in certain parts of the state—and runs through early November. Fall colors usually peak in early October in the northeast part of the state and toward the end of October in central and southern Iowa.

When planning your Iowa leaf-peeping adventure, you can use SmokyMountains.com’s fall foliage map to get a more precise idea of when the fall colors will be at their peak throughout the state. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources also releases its own fall color report, usually in early October. When the 2025 report is released, it can be used as a resource for trip planning too.

If your schedule is flexible, consider leaf peeping during the week when crowds will be smaller.

Where to go leaf peeping in Iowa

There are plenty of places to go leaf peeping in Iowa. Here are some of the best options.

High Trestle Trail

High Trestle Trail is one of Iowa’s top biking and walking trails—regardless of the time of year—but it’s especially scenic during leaf-peeping season. The 25-mile trail runs through five towns and offers panoramic views of the Des Moines River Valley from a 13-story bridge near Madrid.

If you want to turn your High Trestle Trail experience into an overnight or multi-day voyage and pack in some additional leaf peeping, consider booking a campsite at Swede Point Park. The park, nestled in the woods along the Des Moines River about two miles away from High Trestle Trail, is home to 128 acres of habitat and multiple hiking trails. (Swede Point Park typically closes in mid-October, so be sure to check availability online before planning your trip.)

Cost: High Trestle Trail is free to use, but there is a fee for camping in Swede Point Park.

Upper Iowa River

Grab a kayak or canoe to see Iowa’s fall foliage from a different perspective. The Upper Iowa River meanders through limestone palisades, forested bluffs, and woodlands, providing plenty of opportunities for leaf peeping. The river actually begins in Minnesota but spans multiple counties in Iowa, with several access points throughout the state, including in Decorah, Bluffton, and Kendallville. In addition to fall foliage, you may also get to see some waterfalls (depending on what part of the river you explore) and plenty of wildlife, such as turtles, eagles, ducks, and deer.

Cost: Free

Driftless Area Scenic Byway

If you prefer to take in the fall foliage from the comfort of your vehicle, the Driftless Area Scenic Byway—arguably the most scenic byway in the Hawkeye State—should be at the top of your leaf-peeping list. This byway stretches 144 miles through Northeast Iowa. The Driftless Area got its name because it’s the only part of Iowa that was untouched by the glaciers that passed over the rest of the state.

From bluffs and hills to rivers, valleys, and hardwood forests, you’ll see it all while traversing this byway. Some of the best spots to stop and enjoy the views along the byway include Mount Hosmer City Park in Lansing, Larkin’s Overlook and Paint Creek Overlook, both in Harpers Ferry, and Palisades Park in Decorah.

Another great pit stop for leaf peeping in the Driftless Area is Yellow River State Forest in Harpers Ferry. There are more than 50 miles of trails in the forest, which was named one of Outside magazine’s top 50 hiking spots.

Cost: Free

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Combine your leaf-peeping adventure with a history lesson by exploring the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. The nearly 5,000 mile trail follows Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s historic route from Pennsylvania to Oregon, passing through 16 states, including Iowa. The trail is dotted with state parks, nature centers, and wildlife refugees, all of which are perfect for leaf peeping.

Cost: Free

Hitchcock Nature Center 

For some of the best views in Iowa, head to the Hitchcock Nature Center—a nature preserve in Loess Hills along the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail—and climb to the top of the 45-foot-tall observation tower. From the tower, you get a bird’s-eye view of the hills and plenty of fall foliage. There is more to the nature center than its tower though, including almost 1,500 acres of prairie, savanna, and woodlands.

With so much to explore, you may want to consider booking one of the park’s campsites or cabins to extend your stay.

Cost: $5 per vehicle to enter Hitchcock Nature Center; additional camping fees may apply

Glacial Trail Scenic Byway

Another option for leaf peepers who would rather see Iowa’s fall colors from their car is the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. Unlike the Driftless Area Scenic Byway, this 36-mile loop drive through Northwest Iowa features gorgeous natural landscapes carved by glaciers. This byway is a bit off the beaten path, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of forested valleys, rolling hills, and the Little Sioux River.

Cost: Free

U.S. Route 6 

We can’t highlight scenic drives in Iowa without mentioning U.S. Route 6. Stretching more than 3,000 miles across 14 states, including Iowa, U.S. Route 6 is the longest continuous highway in the country. The Iowa portion of U.S. Route 6 is about 320 miles in length and offers incredible views of the state. There are also plenty of places to make pit stops along the way, including many mom-and-pop shops, lodging options, and unique attractions, such as the iconic, 16-foot White Rose Friendly Gas Station Man.

Cost: Free

Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park’s well-developed trail system offers scenic views of Iowa’s fall foliage. Winding through wooded areas, the trails, such as the popular Wildcat Den Trail, lead to stunning natural formations, including “Steamboat Rock” and “Devil’s Punch Bowl.”

According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and many park visitors, summer and fall are the best times to enjoy the park because the colors of the seasons illuminate its attractions.

“I think fall must be the BEST time in the park! Gorgeous foliage,” one visitor wrote on Tripadvisor, with another adding, “Beautiful in the fall with the changing leaves.”

Cost: Free

Pinicon Ridge Park

Pinicon Ridge Park, a 966-acre park along the Wapsipinicon River, is a hilly, heavily wooded environment that’s perfect for leaf peeping. The park features multiple hiking trails that meander through the woods, but for the best fall foliage views, head up to the observation tower. The tower is open from April through October, and at 1,028 feet above sea level, it offers scenic views of the Wapsipinicon River Valley and surrounding countryside.

Cost: Free

Palisades-Kepler State Park 

Palisades-Kepler State Park is one of Iowa’s premier outdoor destinations. Located outside of Cedar Rapids on the banks of the Cedar River, this 840-acre park is home to five miles of hiking trails that meander through diverse forest habitats, which are perfect for leaf peepers to explore. The park also features deep ravines, scenic overlooks, river bluffs, diverse wildlife, and a campground that’s open from April 1 to November 15.

Cost: Park admission is free, but there is a fee to use the campground.

Iowa Arboretum & Gardens

What better place to do some leaf peeping than one that’s devoted to trees? The Iowa Arboretum & Gardens features a wide array of trees and diverse landscaping that put Iowa’s fall colors on full display. The Prairie and Woodland trails have walking paths that wind beneath a canopy of mature trees and scenic overlooks to enjoy during your hike. Additionally, the grounds and trails are pet friendly, and Treehouse Village, part of the arboretum and gardens, has a wooden play structure for children.

Cost: $12 for adults, with discounted pricing available for children and groups

Unique Iowa leaf-peeping adventures

For an extra-memorable leaf-peeping experience, consider one of the following adventures.

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad

Hop aboard the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad for some fall foliage fun. The company offers several train excursions, including its classic option, the Fraser Train, which takes riders through the forested Des Moines River Valley. The Wolf Picnic Train—a popular ride for families—has a large observation platform that offers unmatched views of the river valley.

Cost: Pricing varies based on excursion, day of the week, and cabin class.

Scenic City Empress 

If you prefer boats over trains, book a ride on the Scenic City Empress. This double-decker pontoon boat takes passengers on public cruises down the Iowa River from June to mid-October. During the 90-minute cruise, you’ll get to see waterfalls, wildlife, limestone bluffs, and of course, tons of colorful fall foliage. The boat’s lower level is enclosed and air conditioned, while the upper level is open air and offers unobstructed views of the beautiful scenery.

Cost: $10 per person, with discounted pricing available for children and veterans

Horseback Riding Through Shimeck State Forest 

Saddle up and explore Shimeck State Forest’s scenic trails on horseback. Westercamps, a family run business in Farmington, offers a two-and-a-half hour guided trail ride through the park’s forested area, with refreshments provided halfway through the ride.

Shimeck State Forest is massive—more than 9,100 acres—and you could easily turn your horseback riding trip into an overnight or multi-day getaway. View fall foliage by exploring the oak-hickory and bottomland hardwood timber forests, and set up camp at one of the park’s several campgrounds.

Cost: $35 per person

Other Iowa leaf-peeping tips

To ensure you make the most of your Iowa leaf-peeping adventure, take note of the following tips.

Safety First

Leaf peeping is a relatively safe activity, but you should still be cautious, especially if you’re hiking. Dress in layers to adjust to changing weather conditions, wear comfortable shoes with good traction so you don’t slip on wet leaves or rocks, stay on marked trails, and be sure to let someone know when and where you’re hiking and when you expect to return. Don’t forget to pack bug spray, water, snacks, and a first aid kit.

If you’re leaf peeping from your car, make sure to keep an eye on the road as you take in the scenery. Use overlooks and designated pit stop areas to view the foliage without putting yourself or other drivers at risk.

Enhance Your Experience

If your schedule allows, add more fun fall activities to your leaf-peeping journey, such as a trip to a pumpkin patch or brewery. If you’re leaf peeping in a state park, consider staying a few nights at the park’s campground (if there is one). If you’re driving along one of the routes mentioned above, such as U.S. Route 6, book a hotel in one of the towns you pass through and explore the shops and restaurants downtown.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Related: The 8 most underrated state parks in Iowa