There’s nothing more delightful than walking below a covering of stunning fall foliage. When autumn in Michigan arrives, vibrant colors seem to overwhelm landscapes with gorgeous natural decor. If you’re hoping to explore some of the Great Lakes State’s most fantastic fall scenes, check out these nine parks.
1. Tahquamenon Falls State Park (Paradise)
No matter when you choose to visit, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a natural wonderland. You’ll walk through forested pathways overflowing with red and orange foliage before reaching the stunning waters of the falls themselves. There’s a reason this spot often tops lists of Michigan’s most beautiful places, and it’s simply magical in the fall.
2. Nichols Arboretum (Ann Arbor)
Nichols Arboretum is so much more than a park — it’s an entire section of Ann Arbor that sits peacefully on the Huron River, and you’ll be charmed by its fall colors. Stroll through a path that’s dotted with crisp leaves, check out rushing riverfront views, and marvel at wildlife as you make your way through the area. You could spend hours exploring and never see all the arboretum has to offer.
3. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (Ontonagon)
Head northward to the far reaches of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for an absolutely breathtaking natural excursion at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Whether you head out for a day trip, take a multiple-day excursion down one of the park’s trails, or simply stop for a picnic, you’ll be mesmerized by the way this spot blooms with color each autumn.
4. Leelanau State Park (Northport)
With more than 1,500 acres of gorgeous land to explore, there’s no telling what you’ll discover during your journey to Leelanau State Park. Whether you stop for a few nights of camping amongst the natural beauty or simply take a stroll through the peninsular park, you’ll be amazed by the brilliant colors that make this spot so stunning during the fall months.
5. Lookout Park (St. Joseph)
This quaint park in Southwest Michigan is the perfect place to unwind on a crisp fall day. Throw on a sweater, grab a good book, and sit alongside the waterfront below a lovely tree that’s overflowing with fall foliage. As you gaze out onto Lake Michigan, you’ll be in love with the beauty of the Great Lakes State.
6. Fitzgerald Park (Grand Ledge)
This fantastic park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until dusk, so there’s plenty of time to explore all it has to offer. When autumn arrives, be sure to explore Fitzgerald Park’s three miles of nature trails and visit a series of on-site ancient rock formations known as the "Ledges." With magnificent fall colors and a lovely flowing river, this is one destination that you’ll automatically love.
7. Lake St. Clair Metropark (Harrison Charter Township)
Situated along the banks of Lake St. Clair, this metro park is truly one-of-a-kind. Perhaps you’ve visited its on-site waterpark during warmer months, but it’s extra-special during fall. With all sorts of special events happening throughout the season, including a series of campfire outings and Halloween celebrations, there’s no shortage of fun — or natural beauty — to be had here.
8. Ludington State Park (Ludington)
There’s more to Ludington State Park than a series of gorgeous dunes and a beautiful beach that comes to life in the summer. This pristine locale is also home to some of Michigan’s most wonderful fall scenery and a campground where you can get up close and personal with the nature that makes our state so fantastic. Don’t forget your camera — there’s so much to see here.
9. Belle Isle (Detroit)
Detroit’s famous island park is a blast to visit year round, with a free-to-visit aquarium, marvelous views of the Motor City skyline, and plenty of natural splendor to explore. In the fall, though, there’s a particular magic to be found at Belle Isle — and you’ll feel as though you’ve walked into an autumn wonderland as soon as you arrive.
Did we leave any of your favorite Michigan parks off our list? Where are your go-to spots throughout the state when you’re hoping to see all sorts of fall colors? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below.
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