Can you believe fall is right around the corner and beautiful autumn colors will change the whole look of our state in a few weeks? Sure, you can take a drive and see the foliage, but another cool way to enjoy its beauty is taking a trip down the Illinois River in Tahlequah. The weather will be lovely, the air will be fresh, and the leaves will boast breathtaking hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Take a look at this popular summer activity that comes alive in a whole new way with fall colors.
The Illinois River is a 145-mile-long tributary of the Arkansas River that flows along SH-10 northeast of Tahlequah.
Thomas & Dianne Jones/Flickr
It’s very popular and crowded during the summer months, so we think one of the best times to enjoy its beauty is during the fall. The thick green foliage transitions to beautiful fall colors and the weather isn’t hot and muggy like it is during the summer.
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In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy its beauty is a trip down the river in a canoe or kayak. You can bring your own or rent one from several outfitters along the banks of the river.
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Along your journey, you’ll see bright and bold foliage that will take your breath away. Tahlequah is located in northeastern Oklahoma, which is an area of the state already known for its beauty, so you can imagine what it looks like during the fall.
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The best time to see the fall colors is during the month of October into November. If you take the trip too late (into December) the fall colors will have passed and the weather will be much colder.
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If you would like to enjoy this beautiful trip down one of the most scenic rivers in the state, check out Arrowhead-Thunderbird Resort or Elephant Rock for rentals.
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Watch this beautiful fly-over video of the Illinois River in the fall to get an idea of the beauty you’ll see on your trip:
Thomas & Dianne Jones/Flickr
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Have you taken a trip down the Illinois River during the fall months? If so, what did you think about it? For more information on rentals, visit Elephant Rock or Arrowhead-Thunderbird Resort.
Another great way to see the fall colors in Oklahoma is a drive along the Talimena Scenic Drive in southern Oklahoma. Click here to get all the details.
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