
Appreciating the blazing colors of fall foliage is a traditional part of autumn, and you can get your best "leaf peeping" in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area from mid- to late-September to the first or second week of October, depending on the weather. Nature's display is in full effect at various parks, some historic streets, and other locations that are just around the corner from Minneapolis homes for sale, and they're well worth a visit.
The following are some of the best places to go leaf peeping around the Twin Cities:
- Summit Avenue – Start at 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul MN 55102
Summit Avenue, a historic street that's reportedly the longest avenue of Victorian homes in the country, boasts beautifully colorful mature trees and vines. Located near St. Paul homes for sale, a 4.5-mile stretch makes the perfect short drive for leaf peeping, or you can choose to park on Summit or a side street and walk all or part of the way. In addition to the fall foliage, you'll get to see over 300 historic homes, including the James J. Hill House, a five-story stone mansion.
- Minnehaha Falls Regional Park – 4801 S. Minnehaha Dr., Minneapolis MN 55417
Home to a spectacular 53-foot waterfall that descends into a gorge, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park has plenty of trees that provide a colorful backdrop in the fall. Take the trail down the gorge, or make your way down using a staircase to get a great view of foliage as well as the waterfall. Or bring a picnic and relax at one of the tables or pavilions available in the area above the gorge.
- Fort Snelling State Park – 101 Snelling Lake Rd., St. Paul, MN 55111
Hiking, biking, or walking on the extensive trails at Fort Snelling State Park gives you the chance to see fall foliage at its finest. Rolling hills provide the terrain for leaf peeping and add to the park's natural beauty. If you'd rather see its natural beauty reflected in the water, canoe or swim on Snelling Lake within the park.
- Indian Mounds Park – 15 Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul MN 55102
Indian Mounds Park has many trees that display colors in the fall, and one of the best ways to see them is by taking a leisurely stroll on a one-mile "tree trek." The route starts at Earl Street and Mounds Boulevard and boasts 28 unique trees. A map is available on the park's website to help identify different types of trees as well as their locations. In addition, the park is of great historical interest since it's home to six ancient American Indian burial mounds.
- Tour from Harriett Island – Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd., St. Paul MN 55107
Use a canoe or kayak to go leaf peeping from Harriett Island, and you'll be on the Mississippi River and see the glorious colors reflected on the water. If you'd rather see them without expending as much effort, take a 90-minute narrated riverboat cruise that takes you on the Mississippi and works its way past St. Paul High Bridge, Pike Island, and the mouth of the Minnesota River.
Call today to find out more about the beauty and appeal of the Minneapolis-St. Paul MN. The area's many lakes, parks, and other natural areas make it an ideal place