As cooler temperatures arrive and the leaves begin to change, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is encouraging Iowans to get outside and enjoy all that autumn has to offer.
Fall provides a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, whether that means taking a hike, visiting a local apple orchard, attending a fall festival or simply enjoying the changing colors. Spending time in nature can also help reduce stress and encourage people to stay active.
The Iowa DNR and its partners have several resources available to help families plan their fall adventures. The Iowa State Park Passport allows visitors to discover parks, track their visits and earn prizes. Travel Iowa’s Fall Activity Bingo highlights seasonal attractions, festivals and scenic drives, while MyCountyParks.com features family-friendly programs at county parks across the state.
Families looking for hands-on activities can also find nature activities through Project Learning Tree. The DNR’s Iowa’s Accessible Outdoors program highlights locations around the state offering accessible trails, fishing piers, playgrounds, picnic areas, scenic overlooks and overnight accommodations.
Fall Colors Coming Soon
The Iowa DNR will begin sending its weekly fall color reports on September 30. The reports will highlight where residents and visitors can find the best fall colors, along with ideas for enjoying the season outdoors.
Peak fall color typically arrives at different times across the state. Northern Iowa generally reaches peak color around the weekend closest to October 10. Central Iowa usually peaks during the first through third weeks of October, while southern Iowa typically sees peak colors during the second through fourth weeks.
Fall can be enjoyed from hiking and biking trails, on Iowa’s waterways or simply from the road during a scenic drive.
Upcoming Fall Events
The DNR is also offering several opportunities for Iowans to learn more about Iowa’s natural resources.
A Geology Rock Stars Family Camp will be held September 19-20 at Rockford Fossil & Prairie Park. Families will have the chance to search for fossils, hike trails and participate in activities including fire building and outdoor cooking. The weekend includes meals, rustic cabin lodging and fossil kits for children ages 6-14.
Iowa’s Statewide Volunteer Day will take place September 26. More than 20 state parks and forests are expected to host volunteer projects, including litter cleanup, trail maintenance and painting. No previous experience is required.
Two Fall Forestry Field Days are also scheduled in October. The Shimek State Forest event will be held October 6, followed by the Yellow River State Forest event on October 8. The programs are designed to provide information about forests, woodland management and stewardship.
With cooler weather and colorful scenery just around the corner, the Iowa DNR says fall is a great time to get outside, explore a new part of the state and make memories with family and friends.
Source: Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR), Fall Outdoor Recreation and Activities information.
Photo Source: Iowa Department of Natural Resources, unless otherwise credited.
