Fall Foliage in North Texas: When and Where to See the Colors
Cooler fall temperatures have finally made their way to North Texas, and colorful fall leaves may be soon to follow. The wait for the fall foliage has been longer than usual this year, with the overnight low temperature dipping into the 50s for the first time on Sunday, marking the latest such occurrence in recorded history.
Brett Johnson, a conservation manager with Dallas Park and Recreation, said he starts keeping an eye out for color changes once the overnight low starts dipping into the 50s. This year’s delayed arrival of cooler temperatures has pushed back the expected peak of the fall colors, with some predictions suggesting that the region won’t reach its peak until mid-November.
The delayed start to the fall season has been attributed to the warmer-than-usual temperatures that persisted in the region until recently. However, with the cooler temperatures now in place, the conditions are ripe for the fall foliage to flourish. Johnson recommends keeping an eye out for the color changes in the coming weeks, as the fall colors are expected to be particularly vibrant this year.
For those looking to take in the fall foliage, there are several locations in North Texas that are known for their vibrant colors. From parks and preserves to golf courses and overlooks, there are plenty of options for residents and visitors to enjoy the fall season.
Top Spots for Fall Foliage in North Texas
If you’re looking for the best places to see the fall colors in North Texas, here are some of the top spots to consider. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or simply taking in the views, there’s something for everyone in the region.
Cedar Hill State Park
To the southwest of downtown Dallas, Cedar Hill State Park runs along part of Joe Pool Lake. The park, maintained by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and has a $7 entrance fee for adults and children over 12. Cedar Hill State Park is located at 1570 West FM 1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104.
Cedar Ridge Preserve
Just across Belt Line Road, Cedar Ridge Preserve can also have vibrant fall color. It’s operated by the Dallas Audubon Society and is free to the public, though donations are encouraged. The preserve is open from 6:30 a.m. to dusk, Tuesday through Saturday. Cedar Ridge Preserve is located at 7171 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75249.
White Rock Lake
At over 1,000 acres, White Rock Lake has lots of places to park and take in the scenery. The hiking and biking trail is over nine miles long, allowing for an excellent leaf peeping stroll. The parks are all free to the public, open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are multiple points to access White Rock Lake, with the walking trails starting at 2121 Winsted Dr, Dallas, TX 75214.
Dallas Arboretum
Also located on the shores of the lake, the Dallas Arboretum regularly updates its floral displays to match the seasons. It also hosts holiday displays, including an autumnal pumpkin village and a 12 Days of Christmas exhibit. The arboretum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission varies slightly based on the day and age of visitors, but is around $20. The Dallas Arboretum is located at 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218.
Keeton Park Golf Course
If you’re looking to take in the fall foliage while hitting balls, Keeton Park is another one of Johnson’s top spots to see bold leaf color. Located on the eastern edge of South Dallas, course rates vary from $18-28. It’s open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Keeton Park Golf Course is located at 2323 N Jim Miller Rd, Dallas, TX 75227.
Scyene Overlook
The Scyene Overlook, part of a collection of overlooks near the Keeton Park Golf Course, gives residents a better vantage point to take in the colors of the Great Trinity Forest. Pictures shared online by other visitors show a view of downtown Dallas framed by the foliage. The Scyene Overlook trail begins at 7400 Scyene Road, Dallas, TX 75201.
Related
Conclusion
The fall foliage in North Texas is a sight to behold, with vibrant colors and scenic views that attract visitors from all over. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or simply taking in the views, there are plenty of options to choose from in the region. With the cooler temperatures now in place, the conditions are ripe for the fall foliage to flourish, making it the perfect time to get out and enjoy the colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see the fall foliage in North Texas?
The best time to see the fall foliage in North Texas is typically in late October to mid-November, when the temperatures are cooler and the leaves are changing colors.
Where are the best places to see the fall foliage in North Texas?
Some of the best places to see the fall foliage in North Texas include Cedar Hill State Park, Cedar Ridge Preserve, White Rock Lake, Dallas Arboretum, Keeton Park Golf Course, and Scyene Overlook.
How much does it cost to visit these locations?
The cost to visit these locations varies, with some places like Cedar Hill State Park and Dallas Arboretum charging an entrance fee, while others like White Rock Lake and Scyene Overlook are free to the public.
What activities can I do while enjoying the fall foliage in North Texas?
There are plenty of activities to enjoy while taking in the fall foliage in North Texas, including hiking, biking, golfing, and simply taking in the views. Many of the locations also offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and other amenities to make for a fun and enjoyable day out.
