Where to See Fall Colors in Minnesota: Top 5 Spots Near Alexandria
When travelers ask where to see fall colors in Minnesota, Alexandria is often overlooked in favor of the North Shore. But this region of central Minnesota is home to rolling hills, pristine lakes, and hardwood forests that glow with autumn color. Peak season here typically runs from late September through mid-October, when the maple, oak, and aspen trees burst into brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows (Minnesota DNR Fall Color Finder).
Here are the top five places to experience the season around Alexandria.
Inspiration Peak
One of the highest points in central Minnesota, Inspiration Peak rises 400 feet above the surrounding countryside. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of patchwork forests lit up with fall color. On a clear day, visibility stretches for miles, making it a favorite destination for hikers and photographers in autumn.
Brophy Park
Located just outside Alexandria, Brophy Park is managed by Douglas County Parks and offers peaceful trails and picnic areas. In the fall, its maple and oak trees create a colorful canopy of red, orange, and gold. With both open spaces and lakeside views, the park is a scenic and family-friendly destination during the autumn season.
The Central Lakes Trail stretches 55 miles between Fergus Falls and Osakis, passing directly through Alexandria. The paved trail follows an abandoned railroad line and winds through wetlands, woodlands, and prairies. In the fall, the route becomes a corridor of color, making it a popular option for biking or long walks while surrounded by vibrant foliage.
Lake Carlos State Park is one of Minnesota’s most beloved parks, and autumn highlights its best features. Hardwood forests ring the shoreline, with fiery colors reflecting on the lake’s surface. The park’s miles of hiking trails offer varied terrain, from lakeside walks to wooded hills, all rich with seasonal beauty. Wildlife activity is high in fall, making it an ideal time for birdwatching and nature walks.
The Alexandria Chain of Lakes is the crown jewel for fall color in the region. Exploring by boat or kayak allows visitors to glide past shorelines lined with glowing trees, their colors mirrored in the water. Staying on the lake puts you in the heart of the season’s best scenery.
For a perfect fall getaway, book a stay at Lake Darling Resort. The resort offers modern lakeside cabins, direct access to the Chain of Lakes, and panoramic views of Minnesota’s autumn beauty. It’s the ideal basecamp for exploring all the region has to offer.
Planning Tips for Your Fall Visit
Timing: Peak colors in central Minnesota usually occur from late September through mid-October (Explore Minnesota Fall Travel Guide).
Ways to explore: Combine hiking, biking, and boating to see fall color from multiple perspectives.
Trip essentials: Dress in layers for crisp mornings and warmer afternoons.
Color updates: Check the Minnesota DNR Fall Color Map before heading out.
