Outdoors
Whether you want to explore the foliage by car, on foot or even by boat, there’s a way to experience the season that fits every adventure style. From scenic drives and mountain hikes to peaceful paddles on quiet rivers, the Ozarks are the perfect place to soak up the beauty of fall.
The brilliance of fall in the Ozarks comes from its diverse mix of trees. Sugar maples bring vibrant red and orange hues while hickories and sweetgums glow golden yellow. Beech, ash and dogwood trees add deeper tones of rust and burgundy. The evergreens provide a familiar backdrop that makes the color changes pop even more. The result is a rolling canvas of color that stretches across every hill and valley.
Scenic Drives Through Color
One of the best ways to take in the fall show is from behind the wheel. The Scenic 7 Byway winds through the heart of the Ozarks, passing through Jasper and up toward Harrison. With switchbacks, ridgelines and sweeping overlooks, this stretch offers some of the most dramatic foliage views in the state. Stop for lunch at the Cliff House Inn overlooking the "Grand Canyon of the Ozarks" or grab pie and coffee at the historic Ozark Café.
For a more immersive route, try the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway along Highway 21. This drive cuts through Newton County and into the Buffalo National River area where hardwoods line the roads and light up in peak season. For a full loop, combine Hwy 43, 74, 7, 16 and 21 for a day-long adventure filled with leaf-seeing stops, short hikes and breathtaking photo ops.
Hikes with a View
If you prefer to experience autumn on foot, the Ozarks deliver. Whitaker Point Trail (Hawksbill Crag) is one of the most iconic hikes in the state. The moderate 3-mile roundtrip trail leads to a jaw-dropping overlook that feels like the edge of the world, especially when framed by fall color.
In Searcy County, the Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area offers a pair of loop trails with stunning views, unique rock formations and even a seasonal waterfall. Or head to Sam’s Throne for a mix of hiking and rock climbing with sweeping views over Big Creek Valley. For a riverside stroll, the Buffalo River Trail provides easy access to vibrant woods and wide-open skies.
Foliage from the Water
Some of the best fall views are from below, gliding quietly down a river in a canoe or kayak. The Buffalo National River offers a truly immersive autumn experience with steep bluffs rising above the water and trees mirrored in every bend. Early morning floats often come with a layer of mist making it feel like you’ve paddled straight into a painting.
In Baxter County, Norfork Lake and Bull Shoals Lake offer calm water for boating or fishing surrounded by forested hills that shine with fall color. Whether you're exploring a quiet cove from a pontoon or casting a line from a bass boat, the combination of crisp air and vibrant foliage is hard to beat.
Make It a Weekend
Fall in the Ozarks isn’t just about the views. It’s about the experience. Pitch a tent at or book a full-hookup RV site to make the most of your time. Evenings are perfect for campfires, stargazing or cozying up in a rented cabin after a day of exploration.
Spend your afternoons wandering through towns like Jasper or Mountain View where you’ll find artisan shops, fall festivals, antique stores and family-run cafes serving up comfort food and homemade pie. Watch for elk grazing in Boxley Valley especially during the cool early morning hours of rut season or take a break from the trails and soar through the foliage on the Buffalo River Canopy Tour zipline.
Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure or quality time with loved ones, fall in the Ozarks delivers. It’s more than just pretty leaves. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the season and let the natural beauty of Arkansas wrap around you like a well-worn flannel.
