The Charming Small Town In Texas That's Perfect For A Fall Day Trip
By Katie Lawrence|Published October 13, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When it comes to fallday trips in Texas, I can’t imagine a more perfect setting than Vanderpool. Home to a state park known for its jaw-dropping fall foliage, a winery that’s just steps away from a pristine river, and an apple orchard where you can get a slice of homemade apple pie, this charming small town belongs at the top of your autumn bucket list.
Arguably one of the smallest towns in Texas, Vanderpool is an unincorporated community in the Hill Country region with a population of roughly 22.
During the fall season, however, people flock here from all over the state to experience the breathtaking autumn foliage at Lost Maples State Natural Area.
This unique state park is brimming with Uvalde bigtooth maples that erupt in a brilliant display of color around mid-October.
(I'd be remiss not to mention, however, that the park is gorgeous - and absolutely worth visiting - year-round.) In addition to the flourishing trees, you'll also see dramatic canyon walls, beautiful wildflowers, and the pristine Sabinal River.
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Five trails meander through the park, ranging from less than a mile to over seven miles in length.
Lost Maples State Natural Area, 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, USA
All of the trails showcase the fall leaves, so don't feel like you have to embark on the most strenuous hike to reap the greatest reward. See AllTrails for a full list of trails in the park - and don't forget to sign up for AllTrails+ for special perks such as offline map access.
How about a little wine tasting after your hike? Lost Maples Winery is just two miles from the state park and features award-winning wines in a gorgeous setting.
No matter what type of wine you prefer, rest assured everyone finds their perfect sip here. Prepare for a full-bodied, robust drinking experience that will solidify Lost Maples as your new favorite vineyard.
Lost Maples Winery, 34986 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, USA
Indulge in apple pie, strudels, turnovers, cookies, and their signature item, apple ice cream.
Please note: Lost Maples Winery is currently closed for renovations but plans to reopen very soon. Keep an eye on their website for the most up-to-date information.
Have you ever visited Vanderpool in the fall? What are your favorite fall day trips in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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