The Least-Crowded Towns In Indiana To Catch Fall Foliage
Indiana is a great state to view fall foliage in the Midwest. With its many apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and farm land that transforms into corn mazes during autumn, the Hoosier State provides unforgettable fall getaways. Although Brown County is the state’s go-to destination for fall foliage due to its thousands of acres of beautiful forests, there are far less crowded towns in Indiana ready to be explored in the autumn. From water views in the northern town of Bristol to the southwestern town of Jasper that boasts scenic views on a local train ride, Indiana provides charming towns where you can escape the hustle and bustle of typical tourist crowds.
Madison
Bordering the state of Kentucky along the banks of the Ohio River is the historic town of Madison. The picturesque town provides a unique fall setting with its beautiful 19th-century architecture, river views, and hill tops that are ablaze with crimson, gold, and red from mid to late October.
To experience the true beauty of autumn in Madison, a trip to Clifty Falls State Park is a must. Throughout October, you can enjoy bird viewing tours, Halloween storytime, and even Clifty Falls of Fear Haunted House, for those looking for a more thrilling experience. If you want to enjoy a more tranquil experience, a riverboat cruise along the Ohio River and a stroll through the town’s historic district offer beautiful views of fall foliage.
Angola
Surrounded by 101 lakes in Northeast Indiana, Angola is the perfect place for water and fall foliage enthusiasts. From late September to early October, the charming town comes alive when autumn colors burst through its forests of maple, oak, and history. Pokagon State Park offers beautiful views of rolling meadows, and nature lovers enjoy scenic bike rides and hikes along the park’s trails.
Since the town is nestled among hundreds of lakes, travelers can choose which lake to explore. Many visitors enjoy boating and fishing on Lake James, as well as relaxing at nearby Fox Lake. If you want to take in the tranquility of the area, be sure to rent a cabin with a lake view for a cozy fall getaway.
Chesterton
Chesterton is a charming town in Northwest Indiana, located near Indiana Dunes National Park. From late September to early October, you can view the park’s beautiful black oak forests, sand dunes, and the Lake Michigan shoreline saturated in autumn colors. A less crowded spot for outdoor enthusiasts is Chubb Lake, which offers a serene setting for fishing and fall foliage viewing in Indiana.
If you visit the town on a Saturday from May to October, a trip to Chesteron’s European Market is a must. From artisan pastries and local food vendors, to rare books and live music performances, the Market provides a fun community experience for visitors.
Wabash
Nestled along the Wabash River is the small town of Wabash. The town’s scenic riverside setting comes alive with fall colors in mid-October. Throughout the month of October, Wabash boasts several autumn events, including a Halloween Cocktail Trolley Tour and the Wabash County Chili for Charity Cook-off. The Chili Cook-off takes place at Paradise Spring Historical Park, which offers reenactments of the town during the early 1800s. Autumn is also a great time to explore the park and view the incredible autumn colors. While you are in town, visit David Doud's Countyline Orchard to pick delicious Indiana apples.
Rockville
Located in the heart of Parke County, which is known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” is the quaint town of Rockville. In mid-October, vibrant fall foliage enhances the town’s charm and the scenic covered bridges. A trip to this central Indiana town must include a tour of the area’s covered bridges and a visit to Rockville Lake Park. The park is a great place for fishing and camping, and boasts exciting events in October, such as a Halloween costume contest and a unique Monster Cart decorating contest.
Rockville also hosts a Covered Bridge Festival in mid-October that offers local foods, artisanal crafts, and scenic views of beautiful autumn colors. If you are looking for a traditional fall experience, Hobson Adventure Farm provides an exciting corn maze and pumpkin patch in September and October.
Winona Lake
Built around a picturesque lake, the small town of Winona Lake offers serene fall views in a tranquil environment. From late September to early October, Winona Lake provides incredible autumn hues along the lake. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to soak in the vibrant fall foliage, or simply take a stroll around Winona Lake. For exciting outdoor adventures, Winona Lake Trails is a must. In fact, the town boasts that the trail system is one of the best mountain biking and hiking trails in Northern Indiana.
Jasper
Jasper is a beautiful southwestern Indiana town that transforms into an autumn paradise in October. The picturesque town showcases its vibrant autumn hues on the banks of the Patoka River, where you can stroll along the Jasper Riverwalk. The quaint town also boasts walking trails, a pond, and a tree fort in the Parklands of Jasper.
Visitors enjoy a unique autumn experience in Jasper by taking a relaxing ride on the Spirit of Jasper Train. When you hop on board the locomotive Fall Foliage Ride and Dine in October, you can enjoy a delicious meal and scenic views of the Patoka River, towering woodlands, and scenic wetlands.
From Northern Indiana’s beautiful lakes to Southern Indiana’s incredible forests that have vibrant autumn hues in October, there are many charming towns in Indiana that provide a tranquil atmosphere during the fall. These small Indiana towns offer a chance to witness the beauty of fall foliage while escaping the typical tourist crowds. With each town’s unique charm and fall festivals, these eight towns provide the perfect autumn getaway.
