By Mary Sisk
Rock River Current
Get our mobile app
ROCKFORD — It’s officially fall and we’ve got a list of some of the most scenic spots to see the seasons change.
Before it gets too cold to appreciate Rockford’s fall scenery, it’s important to spend time outdoors, according to Renee Henert, communications coordinator for the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County.
“Fall is the perfect time to get out there because there’s less bugs and it’s cooler out,” Henert said. “So, you know, obviously you can spend more time outside. Just get out there before the snow starts to fall.”
More seasonal stories: ‘I dreamed of these doughnuts’: Edwards Apple Orchard is ‘an experience for fall favs
To encourage locals to get outdoors and admire the autumnal scene, here is a list of five spots in the greater Rockford area that are perfect to visit this fall.
1. Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
Address: 16999 Comly Road, Seward
Phone: 815-877-6100
Try Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve if you have small children, prefer to drive or want a relaxing walk.
The preserve has a drivable path to a high lookout and gorgeous exposed limestone cliffs.
“One of the unique things about Seward is that there are a lot of exposed cliffs,” Henert said. “In the fall, obviously, you see all the different colors as they’re changing, so it’s really just a great view.”
More seasonal news: Let’s get spooky: Pumpkin patch in Caledonia announces annual witches ball
2. Kishwaukee Gorge North Forest Preserve
Address: 4643 Blackhawk Road, Rockford
Phone: 815-877-6100
If you’re in the mood to hike, check out Kishwaukee Gorge North.
There are marked trails, a path to the Kishwaukee River and lots of trees surrounding the river.
“The beginning of the trails are very flat, easy terrain. You have a good mix of prairie and forest,” Henert said. “When you’re in the gorge, it’s just so pretty to see, kind of, look up and see how tall the trees are and how far you’ve gone.”
3. Hononegah Forest Preserve
Address: 80 Hononegah Road, Rockton
Phone: 815-877-6100
If seeing changing leaves on trees is a priority, check out the Hononegah Forest Preserve.
This forest preserve has a historic bridge and plenty of Maple and Oak trees to border the path and give you the perfect background for your latest Instagram post.
“The road that its on actually goes through a Maple grove,” Henert said. “Just driving down that road is like the prettiest and the best for pictures.”
There’s also a canoe launch.
4. Rockford Arboretum
Address: 1875 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Feel like a fall picnic?
The Rockford Arboretum is a property of the Rockford Park District that includes clear walkable pathways, various types of trees and lots of space to have a picnic.
It’s also a popular backdrop for fall photos when the leaves change.
5. Lockwood Park & Trailside Equestrian Centre
Address: 5201 Safford Road, Rockford
Phone: 815-987-8809
This recommendation comes from Rockford Park District’s public relations manager, Laura Gibbs-Green.
“One of my favorite, favorite, favorite things to do is to head to Lockwood Park,” she said on This Week in the Stateline. “Nothing says fall like being on a farm and seeing some pumpkins and some ponies … taking a wagon ride.”
“We have all of our animal friends that are out there, too. It’s super fun.”
Lockwood is best know for horseback riding and its children’s farm and petting zoo.
But if you’re not interested in horseback riding, you can still enjoy the scenic park and playgrounds nestled near colorful trees.
This article is by Mary Sisk. Email her at msisk@rockrivercurrent.com or follow her on Instagram at @maryrrcurrent