The Arkansas Delta offers a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant seasonal color changes of autumn. Characterized by flat landscapes, slow-moving rivers, and a mix of hardwood forests, this region provides stunning displays of fall foliage. Here’s a guide to making the most of your leaf-peeping adventure in the Arkansas Delta.
When to Visit
- Peak Season: The best time to catch the fall foliage in the Arkansas Delta is typically from mid-October through early November. However, the exact timing can vary slightly depending on the weather conditions during the preceding summer and early fall.
- Temperature Influence: Cooler nights and sunny days in October help trigger the transformation of leaves. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts to track the cooler temperatures that signal peak color.
- Look for Water: In dry fall seasons like this one, the best fall colors are often found near consistent water sources such as lakes and major rivers.
Best Spots for Viewing
- Crowley’s Ridge Parkway: This National Scenic Byway runs along Crowley’s Ridge, a geological formation rising above the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The route is known for its beautiful canopy of sugar maples, oaks, and sweetgum trees, offering a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows. Start in Helena-West Helena and travel north toward Jonesboro for a leisurely drive filled with vibrant colors.
- Village Creek State Park: Located along the unique topography of Crowley’s Ridge in eastern Arkansas, this park offers a beautiful display of fall colors. The park’s hardwood forest, featuring species like maple, hickory, and oak, turns vivid shades of red, orange, and gold during the peak season from mid-October to early November. The park’s rolling hills and tranquil lakes create picturesque reflections of the foliage, making it a popular spot for hiking, horseback riding, and photography during the autumn months
- St. Francis National Forest: Located between the Mississippi and St. Francis rivers, this forest is one of the smallest and most picturesque national forests in the U.S. It offers a variety of trails that meander through hardwood stands, providing up-close views of fall colors. Try the Bear Creek Lake Loop for a scenic hike or take a drive along Forest Road 1900.
- State Park viewing locations in the Delta: Crowley’s Ridge, Lake Frierson, Lake Poinsett, Village Creek, Mississippi River, Louisiana Purchase, Delta Heritage Trail, Cane Creek, and Lake Chicot state parks.
Riverside Views
- Mississippi River State Park: This park offers access to the St. Francis National Forest, but its lakeside locations like Bear Creek Lake and Storm Creek Lake are perfect for enjoying reflections of the fall colors in the water. The park’s visitor center offers maps and guidance on the best hiking routes to maximize your fall foliage experience.
- Helena-West Helena’s River Park: For those who prefer a shorter excursion, Helena’s River Park features a boardwalk along the Mississippi River. The towering cottonwoods and oaks lining the riverbanks turn brilliant shades of gold and rust, creating a striking contrast against the blue of the river.
Unique Delta Flora
- Bottomland Hardwoods: The Delta is rich in bottomland hardwood forests, with species like bald cypress, water tupelo, and swamp chestnut oak. These trees turn various shades of yellow, rust, and brown. A canoe or kayak trip through the cypress swamps near Marianna or along the Cache River can provide an immersive view of the colors from the water.
- Agricultural Landscapes: As the Delta is known for its farmland, the harvested fields and changing tree lines create a picturesque backdrop. The sight of golden fields set against patches of fall foliage is quintessential Delta scenery.
Photography Tips
- Early Morning Light: The best light for capturing the colors is usually in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is softer and casts a warm glow over the leaves.
- Water Reflections: Make use of the Delta’s rivers and lakes to capture reflections of the autumn colors. The still waters of lakes like Storm Creek Lake create beautiful mirrored images of the changing leaves.
- Contrast with Architecture: Small towns like Helena-West Helena, Wynne, Lake Village, and Marianna have historic buildings and quaint downtowns that offer charming contrasts against the fall colors. Capture old riverfront buildings or churches framed by vibrant trees.
Travel Tips
- Check the Leaf Tracker: Websites like Explore Fall often provide leaf trackers or updates on the best places to see fall colors.
- Layer Up: Temperatures can vary widely in the fall, with chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. Dressing in layers ensures you can stay comfortable while exploring the trails or driving through scenic routes.
- Support Local Businesses: The Arkansas Delta is home to many small towns with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. A stop at a local diner or bakery can enhance your trip and support the regional economy.
With its mix of hardwood forests, peaceful rivers, and charming small towns, the Arkansas Delta offers a beautiful setting for witnessing the seasonal transition to autumn. Whether you’re driving along scenic byways or exploring trails on foot, the region’s fall colors provide a serene and vibrant backdrop for outdoor exploration.
(All photos courtesy of the Department of Arkansas Parks, Heritage and Tourism except where noted. All photos from previous years.)
