Palisades-Kepler State Park is Stunning in the Fall [PHOTOS]

If you've never been, you need to add Palisades-Kepler State Park to your fall bucket list!

There are plenty of gorgeous places here in Eastern Iowa, but my number one favorite has to be Palisades-Kepler State Park in Mount Vernon. I visited the park for the first time during my first year living in Iowa, and I've been going back ever since. Part of my love for Palisades is because being by the water reminds me of being home in Michigan, but I also love that it feels like a little escape, even though it's only 20 minutes from my house.

On Halloween morning, I woke up just before sunrise and decided on a whim to visit the park while the fall colors are still visible. It was my first time back since before last August's derecho, and I had the whole place to myself. It was a bit chilly because of the wind, but the absolutely stunning scenery made up for it. I spent about an hour walking around and taking photos, so I thought I would share some of them with you! Here are pictures from my little Halloween adventure:

Do you have a favorite destination here in Eastern Iowa to check out all the gorgeous fall colors? If so, please share them! I'm always looking for new places to escape to for a hike. I'm hoping to visit the Maquoketa Caves again next year. Leave you suggestions (and photos, if you have them!) in the comments below.