Fall is finally here in Dallas, which means you’ll be able to enjoy one of the best (free!) things to do in the area: Leaf peeping. Despite the warmer-than-average seasonal temperatures, Dallas sits at the perfect spot in the state to still get a taste of the golden fall foliage while keeping the temperature milder and more temperate than the other northern states. This means you can stay cool and comfortable as you go and see the fall colors in and around Dallas, Texas.
Looking for the best spots to leaf peep? Read on for our comprehensive list of local favorite spots and hidden gems in the Dallas area.
1. Flag Pole Hill
Flag Pole Hill is an extensive park located in the heart of Dallas. It’s been a community fixture for nearly a century and spans over 100 acres of pure natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy any one of the easy-to-access walking trails and lose themselves in the shimmering golden forests. The best part? There’s no wrong way to enjoy the space as you wander and leaf peep! Cozy up with your favorite drink and a good book, or hike the trails with your friends and loved ones. You can also pre-plan a fall-themed photo shoot and think ahead for your holiday cards.
2. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Located conveniently in next-door Plano, the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve offers over 200 acres of trails, biomes, and fall colors to savor. Whether you’re a biker, runner, or avid leaf peeper, you’ll enjoy the diversity and range that this special spot has to offer. Climb up to the observatory tower or relax under any one of the pavilions on-site. You won’t regret taking a slow day to yourself in this seasonal respite!
3. Tyler State Park
Feel like taking a drive? Tyler State Park is just a short hour’s drive away, located between Lindale and Kilgore. Visitors can enjoy a 64-acre natural lake, looming trees fully decked in fall colors, and an endless range of things to do. Geocaching, bird watching, and mountain biking are just a few ways to spend your time, as well as camping and fishing.
If you’re the more rural-loving type, Tyler State Park is the place to be to see some of the most vibrant foliage. Adult ticket prices are just $6 per day, and children 12 and under are free. This makes Tyler State Park one of the best, low-cost places to camp or visit for day-use in the Dallas area–where you’ll enjoy some of the most breathtaking fall sights to see.
4. Katy Trail
Feel like going uptown? The Katy Trail is paved, clean, safe, and absolutely dazzling–putting you up close to some of the deepest and autumn-inspired hues in the surrounding arbory. You can explore the trail on your own or keep your eye out for any one of their many community events, including holiday or seasonal shindigs, celebrations, or runs.
Your Leaf Peeping Checklist
While we agree that there isn’t a “wrong” way to leaf peep, we do recommend making it as cozy as possible so you can truly savor the seasonal sights! Bundle up however you like best, and grab your favorite drink from your local Dallas coffeeshop. Our favorite spots include Hola of Dallas or Weekend Coffee, which isn’t just for the weekend!
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