Fall is finally, truly here! After the year that we’ve had, I think most of us are super excited for the changing of the seasons and the idea of turning over a new “leaf” for the remainder of the year. Now that the weather is changing, the leaves are beginning to turn as well, putting on quite a show with their vivid golds and reds. Just a short drive from San Antonio, in the Hill Country, is one of the best places to go on a little road trip to go do some “leaf peeping” (yeah, we kind of hate that phrase too, but, it’s 2020 and so we’re allowed to use stupid phrases). And fall in Texas is a perfect time to get outdoors with your pup!

First up a quick science lesson on why and how leaves change colors:

The shortened days and the change in the temperatures that come in autumn signal trees to stop their food-making process. When this happens, the chlorophyll in the leaves begins to break down, making the green pigments disappear, thus, leaving behind the yellows, reds and oranges.

Now, onto the good stuff: Where should you and your pooch go to see the best fall foliage in our area?

Lost Maples State Park

37221 F.M. 187 | Vanderpool, TX 78885

If you’re looking for fall leaves in Texas, Lost Maples is your go-to spot…in fact, its fall leaves are what make this state park, located about an hour and a half from San Antonio, in Vanderpool, Texas a favorite among native Texans and visitors alike. Home to Bigtooth Maple trees, this state park features over 10 miles of hiking trails, including a loop that takes you along the top of a 2,200-foot cliff. This park is very popular in the fall so be sure to reserve your day pass online before loading up Rover and making the trek.

Palmetto State Park

78 Park Road 11 S | Gonzales, Texas

Exit at Buc-ee’s, stop for a pleasant potty break for both the humans (in the famously clean bathrooms) and the dogs (ample grassy areas with poop bags available) off of I10, heading east and you’ll find your way to Palmetto State Park, located in Gonzales, Texas. Yes, this state park is named after a tropical tree that doesn’t have autumnal foliage, but the park features plenty of other types that often have fall leaves which make it perfect for fall in Texas. Just a short drive from San Antonio, Palmetto State Park is a fun and easy day trip for all.

Ranch Road 337

From Medina to Camp Wood

While this road trip doesn’t really have a destination, it is instead all about the journey. It also includes scenery that is often referred to as the most beautiful stretch of road in all of Texas. With looming limestone cliffs, this two lane road features tons of showy trees, with Garner State Park as part of the background.

Inks Lake State Park

3630 Park Road 4 West | Burnet, TX 78611

About two hours from San Antonio is Inks Lake State Park, located in scenic Burnet, Texas. Common trees here are Ashe juniper, mesquite, cedar elm, live oak, post oak, Texas persimmon and willow. Large pecan trees tower over the Pecan Flats area. You should be able to see some nice color in this park–perfect for a picnic with your pooch.

Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Road 6026 | Johnson City, TX 78636 (Cypress Mill, Texas 78636 for iPhone Maps)

It doesn’t get much more beautiful, (or more “Texas”) than Pedernales Falls State Park, located near Johnson City. Easy hiking and, depending on recent rainfall, stunning pools of water and waterfalls, make this a popular park to visit any time of the year. During the fall, the leaves put on a show throughout the park and make for perfect Instagram-worthy shots of you and your pets.

Most state parks require advanced reservations for day use, so please refer to their website to check availability. Also, respect the rules and regulations of each location, following mask rules and, as always, picking up after your pet. There’s nothing worse than picking up a brown leaf to admire it more closely, only to realize that it’s not a “brown leaf” at all (true story)!