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When Fall Leaves Will Peak In North Alabama And Where Best To See Them

Interactive map shows when leaves will peak across United States

By Kelly Kerr, Publisher Macaroni KID Owens Cross Roads - Scottsboro, AL September 5, 2024

Wondering when the color of fall leaves will peak in 2024 around Owens Cross Roads - Scottsboro  area and where best to see them?

David Angotti can tell you. He is a statistical expert and the co-founder of the site SmokyMountains.com. His love for weather, travel, technology, and the autumn season led him to begin developing a nationwide fall leaf map in 2013 after one Smoky Mountains visitor too many inquired with him when the leaves would be at their fall best.

What started as a fun side-project quickly became the most respected nationwide fall leaf map and one of the best fall resources in the country. Now, tens of millions of people use his map each year to plan everything from photography trips to weddings. But the most common users are simply people wondering when the leaves will peak near them, just like you're wondering when leaves will be at their best fall color in Northern Alabama!

While not an exact science, the predictive map uses a complex algorithm that carefully analyzes several million data points and outputs approximately 50,000 predictive data pieces to determine when leaves will peak in each part of the country.

Check out the map below to see when the leaves will peak near Scottsboro or another part of the country. Simply move the slider along the bottom to see when leaves are expected to reach peak color in the US

Where to go leaf peeping in Owens Cross Roads - Scottsboro, AL

While at Macaroni KID Owens Cross Roads - Scottsboro we don't use scientific data to determine the best place to go to see fall leaves, we think we have pretty good intel!

Here are my family's top five places from Owens Cross Roads out to Scottsboro to go leaf-peeping:


 Elena Photo via Canva

Madison County Nature Trail

5000 Nature Trail Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35803

The Madison County Nature Trail is a beautiful family-friendly spot on top of Green Mountain. The trail surrounds Sky Lake so there are picturesque views from all around. It truly provides the perfect setting for nature lovers of all ages — whatever the season.  It's only a 1.5-mile trail and there are many great spots to stop along the way.  We went with our 6, 4 & almost 2-year-old and the kids did well! ( However, We stopped - A LOT) 

There is a beautiful covered bridge, a chapel, an outdoor classroom, picnic tables and restrooms

Spring features the park’s beautiful azaleas and dogwoods, while summer exhibits colorful wildflowers blooming beneath the forest’s deep green canopy. In fall, amidst the crisp mountain air, trees display a glorious collage of color. Winter contrasts with its stark beauty and the quiet rustle of leaves along the forest’s floor.

 Children under 16 years of age or seniors over 60 can fish Monday through Friday. A $3.00 fishing fee is charged.


 Ikostudio via Canva

Hays Natures Preserve

7153 Hwy 431 S Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

This is one of our family's favorite spots. They have a natural playground with giant swings, forts, bridges, pulleys, a dig site, and so much more. I think of the lost boys living there whenever we go. This place will be beautiful with the colorful falling leaves and the entire play area is covered under large, protective trees.  Follow the road around a little ways back and you will come to a parking lot. This is one of the entrances to the Flint River Greenway - which is a beautiful, paved 1.8 mile stretch. It's great for a family bike ride,  or a run with a stroller!


 Gratisography from Pexels

Russell Cave National Monument

3729 C. Rd. 98 Bridgeport, AL 35740

For hundreds of generations, the cave provided shelter for prehistoric peoples of the southeast.

Today, visitors can learn about the national significance of this archeological site and enjoy the quiet setting of this National Park Service Unit.

 Open daily 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Free


 Ikostudio via Canva

Monte Sano State Park

5105 Nolan Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801

Monte Sano, Spanish for “Mountain of Health.”  Bring your kids and family for some healthy fun in the crisp air of the mountain.  Monte Sano boasts gorgeous views, campgrounds, a Japanese garden, a playground, and a wedding chapel! Plan a day with a picnic to make the most out of the entrance fees!

  • Adult Fee Ages 12+ $5.00
  • Ages 4-11 $2.00
  • Seniors 62+ $2.00
  • Active Military $2.00
  • Kids 3 and under are free 

 Laura Reed from Pexels

Jackson County Park 

2302 County Park Road, Scottsboro, AL 35769

This is a beautiful spot by the water to enjoy the season's beauty.  Playground, picnic tables, Campgrounds and rental facilities as well as boat rentals and a marina. they also have an incredible BBQ restaurant onsite.


OR

Scottsboro Municipal Park

Scottsboro, AL 35769

Enjoy a nice family walk on a paved path along the water. Exhaust the kiddos, get some exercise and enjoy the crisp cool fall air and the beautiful views of the mountains around Lake Guntersville. 


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