🍁 When Do Indiana Leaves Hit Peak Color?
Fall foliage season in Indiana is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of thing — but when it’s on, it’s stunning. Generally, the best time to see fall colors in Indiana is early to mid-October in the north and mid to late October in the southern part of the state.
Thanks to Indiana’s mix of maple, oak, hickory, and tulip trees, the color palette ranges from deep reds to golden yellows and burnt orange. If you’re looking to plan a fall road trip, here’s your guide to the most brilliant leaf-peeping destinations across Indiana in 2025.
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🌄 Brown County State Park: The Crown Jewel of Fall Color
Brown County State Park – Nashville, Indiana
Known as the “Little Smokies” of the Midwest, this is the spot to see Indiana’s fall leaves. With scenic overlooks, hilly hiking trails, and historic stone walls, Brown County State Park turns into a fall postcard every October.
Best views: Try Hesitation Point or the fire tower for panoramic leaf views.
Tip: Go on a weekday to avoid weekend traffic jams through Nashville.
Bonus: Nashville itself is full of cute shops, apple treats, and cabin rentals.
Learn more in our deep dive article on Brown County
🏞 Indiana Dunes National Park: Beach + Forest + Color
Indiana Dunes National Park – Lake Michigan Shoreline
Yes, you can leaf-peep near the beach. The Indiana Dunes blend sand dunes, lake views, and fall forest trails for a totally unique autumn experience.
Top trails: Cowles Bog Trail and the wooded paths around Chellberg Farm are fall favorites.
What to Expect: Golden oak and maple trees contrast beautifully with the lake’s deep blue.
Learn more in our deep dive article on Indiana Dunes National Park
🍂 Southern Indiana Gems: Hills, Forests, and Waterfalls
Hoosier National Forest – Hickory Ridge & More
Southern Indiana’s rolling hills turn fiery orange by mid to late October. Drive or hike to Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower for epic treetop views.
Clifty Falls State Park – Madison, Indiana
See waterfalls framed by vibrant leaves. Clifty’s gorge trails and canyon views make it a must-visit during fall.
Spring Mill State Park – Mitchell, Indiana
Explore fall foliage along cave trails and limestone buildings. The historic Pioneer Village adds charm to the leaf show.
🍂 Foliage Finds in Central & Northern Indiana
Potter’s Bridge Park – Noblesville
A historic white covered bridge surrounded by autumn color? Yes, please. Stroll the riverside trail for peaceful fall vibes just north of Indy.
Turkey Run State Park – Marshall
Walk through sandstone canyons and along Sugar Creek, where yellow and red leaves reflect off the water. It’s like Indiana’s version of a storybook forest.
College Campus Color Tours
Some of Indiana’s prettiest fall displays happen on college campuses.
Notre Dame in South Bend: Ivy-covered walls and golden leaves.
Indiana University in Bloomington: Crimson foliage and limestone architecture pair perfectly.
🚗 Scenic Drives to Catch Peak Color
State Road 46 (Nashville to Bloomington): Arguably Indiana’s most iconic fall drive — rolling hills, switchbacks, and nonstop foliage.
Ohio River Scenic Byway (Southern Indiana): Hug the river and enjoy small towns like Madison and Newburgh along the way.
Parke County’s Covered Bridge Route: Visit during the Covered Bridge Festival in October and catch red barns, golden trees, and Indiana charm.
📸 Tips for Your Fall Foliage Road Trip
Time of Day: Early morning or golden hour (just before sunset) gives the best light for photos.
Dress in Layers: Mornings can be frosty, afternoons warm. Fall weather is a rollercoaster.
Foliage Reports: Bookmark Indiana DNR’s fall color updates to time your trip.
Less Crowded Than New England: Indiana offers gorgeous scenery without the traffic jams or overpriced lodging.
🔍 Quick Q&A: Where to See Fall Colors in Indiana?
What’s the best place for fall foliage in Indiana?
Brown County State Park takes the crown — it’s the most visited state park in Indiana during fall for good reason.
When do fall leaves peak in Indiana?
Northern Indiana hits peak color around early October; southern Indiana typically peaks mid to late October.
Where can I take a scenic fall drive?
Try Highway 46 from Nashville to Bloomington or the Ohio River Scenic Byway for small-town charm and big fall color.
🍁 Plan Your Indiana Fall Adventure
Don’t sleep on fall in the Hoosier State, from waterfalls and ridges to campus walks and scenic drives, Indiana has leaf-peeping magic everywhere. Skip the crowds in Vermont and soak up underrated fall views right here at home.
📸 Share your best foliage pics using #GetIndiana or tag your favorite hidden fall spot in the comments!
