Autumn in Indiana is a wonderful, special time filled with magic (and sweater weather). As the days get shorter and chillier and the nights get longer, the forests also undergo changes of their own, namely in the form of vivid color. Hoosiers are lucky; our state is one of those that comes absolutely alive during the fall, with awesome color being just about everywhere you turn. Take, for example, the Scarlet Oak Woods; this beautiful little preserve is named for the amazing colors it turns at this time of year, and a short, easy hike right through it is wonderful for the soul. If you’re looking for an excellent fall foliage hike in Indiana, you’ve found one for sure. It’s one of my favorites, and I think you’ll feel the same way.

Nestled between both the Morgan-Monroe State Forest and the Mt. Gilead Friends Retreat is the Scarlet Oak Woods, a place of magic nobody seems to know about but the locals.
Ellen Paris/AllTrails
There are lots of things to do and see while in Bloomington, and this little trek often goes unnoticed in favor of other more popular ones at this time of year.
For most of the year, the reserve is brilliantly emerald with plenty of birds and wildlife frolicking around, making an excellent backdrop for a morning hike.
Ryan Stohler/Google Local
It's open year-round, and although summer and spring are indeed gorgeous, I personally think autumn is when Scarlet Oak Woods really shines.
After all, the area is literally named after the color the trees turn in the fall, making it an absolutely excellent idea by default.
Matthew Bubenzer/AllTrails
First, it's green. Then, it's gold. Soon, it's scarlet... and eventually, the leaves will quietly drift down to the earth, where they'll decompose and feed the next round of foliage come spring.

Related Stories

The Enchanting Cataract Falls In Indiana Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

The Enchanting Cataract Falls In Indiana Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

 The Under-The-Radar Destination In Indiana With The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage In The State

The Under-The-Radar Destination In Indiana With The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage In The State

 This Little-Known Scenic Spot In Indiana That Comes Alive With Color Come Fall

This Little-Known Scenic Spot In Indiana That Comes Alive With Color Come Fall
Mornings are chilly out here, especially come October, and I definitely recommend dressing warm enough to be comfortable but not TOO warm just yet.
Sycamore Land Trust/Facebook
After all, the weather's still nice. It's not hot, and it's not too cold, but summer is definitely behind us and that's worth considering.
Originally, the reserve was 66 acres in size.
Jasper Kozacek/Google Local
In 2016, though, its size was doubled thanks to gifts and donations by a small group of philanthropists. We are forever grateful - this little place is pure, natural magic, and it ought to be preserved and protected at all costs.
Come early enough in the morning, especially during the week, and you might just get it all to yourself.
Benjamin Myers/Google Local

For more photos, plus a handy map, be sure to visit the official trail listing on AllTrails (and if you’d like to take your hiking up a notch, consider trying AllTrails+ – I have no idea how I ever hiked without it). What are your favorite hike in Indiana for leaf peeping? Let me know in the comments; you might see your favorite place featured someday!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Indiana

Featured Addresses
Scarlet Oak Woods, 6590 N Viking Ridge Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408, USA