Nothing beats a relaxed autumn afternoon checking out Iowa’s stunning fall foliage. We’ll see vivid colors popping up throughout the county in a couple of months. We’ve compiled a list of unforgettable places to see the best hues in Council Bluffs and throughout Pottawattamie County, so you can spend more time viewing than searching. Grab your camera and get ready to fall in love! Enjoy a relaxing stay in a Council Bluffs hotel and make the most of your autumn adventure.
Places in Council Bluffs
Fairmount Park
Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM
Fairmount Park is a fall lover's paradise! From hiking on the trails to seeing some of the best views of the west side of Council Bluffs and the Omaha skyline, this park is a must-see for fall colors.
Iowa School for the Deaf Nature Center Trail
Hours: Open 24/7
Talk a walk around Iowa School for the Deaf! Their nature trail is well maintained and takes you through their beautiful campus lined with colorful trees and prairie grasses.
Lake Manawa State Park
Hours: 4 AM- 10:30 PM
Experience fall at Lake Manawa State Park! Whether you take a drive around the lake, spend time hiking the trails, or set up for a picnic, you’ll get to enjoy all the sights and sounds of autumn. Admission is free for Iowa residents, with a $5 cost for out-of-state visitors.
Lewis & Clark Monument Scenic Overlook
Hours: 8 AM - 10 PM
See the Missouri River at the Lewis & Clark Monument Scenic Overlook as Lewis and Clark did back in 1804 at this beautiful monument! Located in the Loess Hills, the site gives visitors the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the river and metropolitan area.
Lincoln Monument
Hours: Open 24/7
The Lincoln Monument takes you up into the hills and allows you to see some spectacular views of the city! Watch as the fall colors mimic the beautiful hues of an Iowa sunset.
Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park
Hours: 5 AM - 10 PM
Fall in love with fall as you sit underneath the beautiful honey locust and river birch trees at Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park! Use the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge to access the fall foliage on the Omaha side of the river.
Vincent Bluff State Preserve
Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM
The Vincent Bluff State Preserve trail takes you on top of the Loess Hills and allows you to see the entirety of the Council Bluffs metro! The prairie grasses are a firey hue and the surrounding trees burst with colors this time of year.
Wabash Trace Nature Trail
Hours: 5:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Walk underneath the canopy as you explore the Wabash Trace Nature Trail! The majority of this crushed limestone trail is surrounded by beautiful native trees that won’t disappoint with their vibrant fall tones. Trail access is affordable at just $2 per day or $20 for an annual pass.
Places in Pottawattamie County
Arrowhead Park
Hours: 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Unwind at Arrowhead Park, just a short drive from Council Bluffs! Take in the stunning fall tones from a canoe, along the trails, out the front window of your cabin, or from the shoreline. Entry is just $3 per vehicle, making it an affordable and relaxing autumn escape.
Botna Bend Park
Hours: 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Discover the beauty of Botna Bend Park, where vibrant maple trees set the scene and a resident bison and elk herd make every visit unforgettable. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful fall day with nature’s giants—all for just $3 per vehicle.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM
Nestled in the Loess Hills, Hitchcock Nature Center is a true haven for nature lovers. Best known for its scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views, the park invites you to climb the HawkWatch tower for sweeping vistas and the chance to spot soaring bald eagles. Entry is just $5 per vehicle, giving you affordable access to one of the region’s most stunning outdoor escapes.
Olde Town Park
Hours: Open 24/7
Reconnect with nature at Olde Town Park, located along the scenic West Nishnabotna River Water Trail. Launch a canoe and drift among the vibrant fall foliage, or simply relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. Admission is just $3 per vehicle, making it an easy and affordable autumn outing.
Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail
Hours: Open 24/7
Venture further out into Pottawattamie County and check out the Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail! This four-mile paved path is great for taking the kiddos in the stroller to check out the views and enjoy the changing weather.
The Fun Doesn't Stop There!
Fall in Pottawattamie County is full of adventure and charm. From pumpkin patches and orchards to festive events and cozy seasonal attractions, there are endless ways to celebrate the season. Take in the beauty of the outdoors, savor the crisp autumn air, and discover all the activities that make fall unforgettable. Explore more in the blogs below!
