The leaves are starting to show hints of yellows, oranges and reds as Fall foliage gears up in Cape Girardeau! Below you’ll find some of the prime spots in Cape Girardeau where you can best enjoy Nature’s colorful show.  This handy map clues you in on when leaves reach their peak; it looks like the week of October 21 is the prime time to enjoy fall colors in Cape Girardeau!

Cape Rock Park is perched atop a bluff and has incredible views of the tree-lined Mighty Mississippi. Being up a little higher, you have access to sweeping views with lots of color from this spot. 

Trail of Tears State Park (and the lovely route there) will knock your socks off with its fall scenery, from Lake Boutin to the overlook at the Mississippi River and the hiking trails through hilly terrain, often ending up on rocky bluffs along the river. 

Bollinger Mill State Historic Site is a pretty, 30 minute drive from Cape Girardeau. Bring a picnic to this pre-Civil War era mill and relax alongside the Whitewater River under trees vibrant with Fall finery. 

Capaha Park is “bar none, the prettiest place in city for Fall colors; especially the wonderful walk around the lagoon, it’s gorgeous,” says Chuck Martin, Executive Director of the Missouri Travel Council. Capaha Park’s rose garden is another must see spot while you’re here. 

Sit under the oldest Champion Beech Tree in the state of Missouri at the Old Bridge Overlook Park and admire the golden leaves and bright blue sky while you take in views of the river. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation keeps excellent track of the changing leaves throughout the state, focusing in on different regions. Stay tuned to their Fall Colors page for updates on Fall foliage in Southeast Missouri!

Where are your favorite places to watch the leaves change colors?  Tag your Fall pictures with #VisitCape and share the adventure!