Best time to travel to Branson, MO

Fall Foliage in Branson, MO

For four to six weeks every year, Branson becomes the epicenter of Ozark's fall foliage observation

Best time: mid-September–November

Fall Foliage
Fall Foliage
Fall Foliage

Branson and its vicinity are known as Ozark Mountain Country. Many people visit southwest Missouri precisely to admire gorgeous trees that grow in the region: sumac, Virginia creeper, black gum, and many common oaks and maples.

Best time to see fall colors in Branson

The golden season around Branson lasts from mid-September to November. During the peak time in mid-October, maples, oaks, and hickories start to change their palette. This period completely transforms the views of the city. It explodes with crimson, gold, and orange colors.

Best places to view fall colors in and around Branson

Autumn landscapes are best viewed from the many vantage points scattered throughout the city, in particular, Highway 165 Scenic Overlook, which is part of a 22 mi (35 km) spectacular road. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area covers about 1,534 ac (620.8 ha) and is suitable for a long nature walk. In this park, you will also find Dewey Bald, a 0.8 mi ( 1.3 km) hiking trail that features an observation tower. Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo Dam are perfect spots for an autumn picnic and contemplation. From all locations, you can see the abundance of famous Ozark trees. For the bravest, there are several locations around Branson where you can enjoy fall colors while riding the Runaway Mountain Coaster or a zip line. For adrenaline-boosting attractions, visit Walnut Shade, Shepherd's Adventure Park, or Wolfe Mountain.

Practical info

What types of trees can be seen during fall foliage in Branson?

During the fall foliage season in Branson, visitors can marvel at a mix of Ozark trees that include black gum, sumac, oaks, Virginia creeper, and maples. The explosion of crimson, gold, and orange colors creates a distinct and breathtaking view that captivates many visitors each year. Show more

When is the best time to visit Branson to see fall colors?

The best time to visit Branson for its fall colors is typically from mid-September to November, with the peak time being mid-October. During this time, the leaves of hickory, maple, and oak trees begin to change, resulting in stunning hues of gold, crimson, and orange that make Branson a colorful sight to behold. Show more

Where is the best place to view fall colors in Branson?

Exploring Branson during the fall foliage season offers visitors a chance to enjoy stunning views from different perspectives. The Highway 165 Scenic Overlook, part of a 22-mile road, provides a spectacular view, while the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area is perfect for long walks. Atop Dewey Bald observation tower, stunning vistas of Ozark trees abound. For a relaxing picnic experience, visitors can opt for Table Rock Lake or Lake Taneycomo Dam. Thrill-seekers can get an adrenaline boost while enjoying the striking fall foliage view from attractions like the Runaway Mountain Coaster, the zip lines at Shepherd's Adventure Park or the Wolfe Mountain. Show more

What trails or hiking locations are available to see fall foliage in Branson?

Taking a hike on the various trails around Branson during the fall foliage offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning Ozark trees. The Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, Henning State Forest, and Dewey Bald observation tower offer unique vantage points to experience the fall foliage. Visitors can hike White River Valley Trail System, a 10-mile trail network with fantastic spots along the White River. Show more

Can you see fall foliage while enjoying attractions in Branson?

Visitors to Branson and thrill-seekers can enjoy the area's fantastic fall foliage while engaging in various adrenaline-boosting activities. Some of the attractions that provide picturesque views of the changing trees include the Runaway Mountain Coaster, one of Branson's most popular attractions, zip lines at Walnut Shade, Shepherd's Adventure Park, or Wolfe Mountain. For a spectacular top-down view of the Ozark trees around Branson, visitors can ride the Ferris wheel, the second-largest in the United States. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin