Celebrate the crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy creekside vibes with this round-up of the best fall activities near The Ozarker Lodge. From scenic drives through the Ozark Mountains to pumpkin patches, fall festivals, and hiking spots with peak foliage views—there’s no better place to soak in autumn than Branson, Missouri.

1. Go Leaf-Peeping on Scenic Drives

Discover the Ozarks in all their fiery hues on these standout fall routes:

• Highway 165 Scenic Overlook loop: Just minutes from downtown, this 22-mile drive rewards you with sweeping views of Table Rock Lake and the surrounding ridges painted in autumn brilliance.
• Downtown Branson → Forsyth → Rockaway Beach loop: A charming combo of small-town nostalgia and vibrant foliage, ideal for casual drives.
• Bull Shoals Lake / Peel Ferry / Mark Twain National Forest drive: Ideal for those ready to venture a bit farther, this route immerses you in the best of woodland beauty.

2. Hike into a Tapestry of Color

• Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area: Trails wind through 1,500+ acres of fall brilliance, and the observation tower offers panoramic viewpoints perfect for family photos.
• Table Rock Lakeshore Trail & Lakeside Forest Wilderness: These scenic walking paths near Table Rock and Lake Taneycomo are peaceful, beautiful, and well-loved by locals.

3. Celebrate at Fall Festivals & Pumpkin Spots

• Silver Dollar City Harvest Festival: Expect pumpkin masterpieces, heritage crafts, evening light displays—Pumpkins in the City brings thousands of glowing gourds to life.
• Shepherd of the Hills PumpkinFest (September 20 to October 26): Hayrides, decorate-your-own pumpkins, and harvest fun make this a family favorite.
• Ozarks-wide free fall festivals: From craft fairs and live music to pumpkin patches and cozy gatherings, these local events are a perfect, budget-friendly way to embrace autumn.

4. Savor Seasonal Treats & Orchard Visits

• McKenna Family Farm: When the trees drop their bounty, this farm brings out pumpkins, mazes, and games—great for kids and nostalgia seekers alike.
• Local bakeries and wineries: Enjoy fresh apple cider donuts, warm pies, or even a glass of wine with autumn views. Bear Creek Winery and others add seasonal charm without straying from the family-friendly vibe.

5. Ride the Rails Through Color

Climb aboard the Branson Scenic Railway for a 40-mile, rail‑car tour of Ozark foliage—complete with tunnels, trestles, and cabin‑cozy views that make this one of the most memorable ways to leaf‑peek in Branson.

Why The Ozarker Makes the Perfect Home Base

Creekside comfort: After a day of leaf-peeping or festival fun, unwind with the lodge’s warm, nostalgic charm and community spaces. Central location: You're just minutes from scenic overlooks, festival venues, and family‑favorite farms—all perfect for short drives and big memories. Evening magic at your doorstep: Picture fireside storytelling, cocoa and s’mores by the creek, and shared laughter under the stars—authentic fall memories in the heart of the Ozarks. Tip for Timing the Color Peak foliage typically hits mid‑October, when maples, oaks, hickories, and ashes burst into color—so it’s the perfect window to catch fall in full bloom.