Buffalo River State Park

Leaf color: 50-75%

Flower color: past peak

Grass color: 75-100%

Details:

Where to go: The Old Grade and Wide Sky Trails offer an elevated vantage point to view the changing leaves along the river corridor below. Head along the old park drive that begins at the northeast side of the picnic grounds parking lot. For a shorter walk, take a left at the crest of the hill and follow the Old Grade Trail as is loops along the northern boundary of the picnic grounds. A longer trip can be made by taking a right at the crest of the hill and following the Wide Sky Trail along the former cutbank ridges of the Buffalo River. Loop back to the picnic grounds along the River View Trail and enjoy the sounds of crunching leaves beneath your feet and babbling water of the Buffalo River that skirts along the edge of the trail. Several benches are located along the River View Trail route, allowing opportunities to sit and take in all that fall has to offer.

What you'll see: Leaves in the park are getting fairly close to showing peak color, and the next week or so should offer the best viewing opportunities of the year. Ash, cottonwood, elm, and aspen are all displaying shades of yellow and tan. Sumac, wild grape, and plum are showing deep shades of red, gold, and purple. Each of these set against the deep green hues of bur oak leaves makes for a very nice view. Even the maple tree in the center island of the picnic grounds parking lot is now showing some impressive color. The prairie grasses are still putting on an excellent show as well, with Big and Little Bluestem showing shades of red, purple, and blue. Side Oats Grama and Buffalo Grass is abundant in areas of the park as well, and taking the time to observe the unique seed formations of each can be very rewarding. Also keep an eye out for the delicate formations of shattergrass and dropseed species that line the trails as you walk amongst the brilliant display that surrounds you.

Also of interest: Migrating songbirds are beginning to appear in the park, and a variety of species can be found. Deer have also been spotted along the river and in the wood edge meadows as well. Woodchucks, squirrels, chipmunks, and gophers are making their final preparations for the winter season and many can be seen busily scurrying throughout the park. Bald eagles, hawks, and turkey vultures can often be found along the river corridor, especially among the dead cottonwood trees adjacent to the river. The evenings offer the chance to hear hooting owls and howling coyotes.

Last updated: October 1, 2013 

Getting there 565 155th Street South Glyndon, MN 56547 From Moorhead, go 14 miles east on U. S. Highway 10 and follow the signs to the park.	Contact Phone: 218-498-2124 Email: buffaloriver.statepark@state.mn.us Best time to contact the park: Fall: Daily, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.	More information Park maps Summer Map  Campground Map  Park camping & lodging Park trails Park web site
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