There’s something about fall in Marion County. The air gets cooler, the leaves start showing off, and the lake becomes the perfect place to squeeze in one more adventure before winter.
Whether you're looking for a back-to-school escape, a weekend with friends, or one last excuse to sleep under the stars, fall is a pretty great time to Set Your Pace. Pack a sweater, grab the camera, and take the scenic route.
Fall turns Marion County into one big excuse to get outside.
Head toward Lake Red Rock, explore the trails around Cordova Park, or take the scenic route between our communities and see where the colors take you.
Want to make a day of it? Add the Cordova Observation Tower to your list and experience the natural spaces that make Marion County special. And don't forget the camera. The leaves won't stay this way forever.
Before you trade campfires for fireplaces, squeeze in one more camping trip.
Set up camp around Lake Red Rock, spend the day exploring, and end the night around a fire.
Prefer a few more amenities? Make it a weekend at a Marion County Conservation cabin. Modern cabins accommodate 2–12 guests, with open spaces and cozy firepits perfect for families, friends, or a fall weekend away.
Fall is the sweet spot: cool enough for a fire, warm enough to explore.
Fall is made for wandering. Start in Pleasantville with coffee and small-town shopping. Head to Knoxville for lunch, local shops, and a little racing history. Then make your way to Pella to explore the historic downtown, Dutch architecture, local businesses, and seasonal festivities.
And somewhere along the way, stop for a local wine tasting.
Good wine. Good company. Nowhere else to be.
If you're visiting Pella in the fall, check the calendar.
Oktoberfest by Spirit of Pella is a must.
Come for the food and drinks, stay for the music and festivities, and experience Pella at its most lively.
9 AM — Pleasantville
Coffee + small-town shopping.
10:30 AM — Lake Red Rock
Chase the fall colors and explore the trails.
Noon — Knoxville
Lunch + downtown exploring.
2 PM — Cordova Park
Take the Cordova Conservation Tour and soak up the scenery.
4 PM — Local Wine Tasting
Slow down and enjoy a glass while the leaves put on a show.
6 PM — Pella
Shop, explore, and experience Oktoberfest if you're visiting during the celebration.
Evening — Firepit Time
Head back to your campsite or cabin for one last fall night around the fire.
Morning — Slow Down
Sleep in, grab breakfast, and enjoy the crisp fall air.
10:30 AM — One Last Adventure
Take a final walk around Lake Red Rock or explore another trail.
Noon — Shop Local
Pick up a few fall finds or local treats before heading home.
Q: When is the best time to see fall colors?
A: The leaves change on their own timeline! In Marion County, you can typically expect fall colors to start showing up in mid-October, but peak color depends on the weather. Keep an eye on our social media pages for seasonal updates, then plan a drive, walk, or photo stop around Lake Red Rock to take in the changing scenery.
Q: What are some affordable ways to enjoy fall in Marion County?
A: You don't need a packed itinerary to make the most of fall! Take a scenic drive around Lake Red Rock, explore local parks and trails, or spend an afternoon browsing the shops and grabbing a bite in downtown Pella or Knoxville. Add a seasonal event or local attraction that catches your eye, and you've got the makings of a fall getaway without spending a fortune.
Q: Is there a PDF Version of this itinerary?
A: Download the PDF Itinerary here.
