WINONA, Minn. - I've really enjoyed this fall and all of its beauty, traveling the state to find some great color. Earlier this month, I drove up to the North Shore and hiked Oberg Mountain to see spectacular fall foliage. I don't think I have ever seen such vibrant colors on the leaves.
My next stop took me a bit farther south, to Mille Lacs Kathio State Park in Onamia, where I climbed a fire tower in fresh snow, to see even more color, but also the end of the season for some trees.
October flew by and now we're near the end of it, along with the beautiful fall colors. So, this week, I went to a region that's typically last to see the leaves go, southeastern Minnesota.
My connection to this part of the state goes back eight years when I got my first reporting job in Rochester, Minn. I remember sitting in the newsroom during our morning editorial meetings and many times, my colleagues and I would fight over who could cover a story in Winona. We all loved visiting that city and I loved it for it pure beauty along the Mississippi River. Every time I would cover a story there, I would try to make a stop to Garvin Heights Park at its well-known overlook.
Ellery's Photo Stop
But I knew this wasn't the only great spot along the bluff region. I was sent a suggestion from my former sixth grade science teacher a while back to check out Buena Vista Park in Alma, Wis. Apparently, there's a beautiful overlook there. So, for this week's Photo Stop I thought, 'Why not go to both places to see if there's a big change in the leaves.'
We started off in Winona at Garvin Heights. It's the same old view I always remember, but it's always different in the fall because you never know how the leaves will turn each year. I love this overlook because you get a great view of the bluffs, the city and across into Wisconsin. There's one shot I always try to capture when I'm there, and it shows part of the winding road leading up to the overlook peaking out from the vibrant yellow trees. I definitely took a photo of that. Overall, I was surprised by how many leaves were already gone or dull, but still, it was a beautiful sight. You really can't beat Winona any time of the year.
Next, I drove across the border and north to Buena Vista Park in Alma, Wis. My, oh my, what a beautiful spot. On this side of the river you see less of the bluffs than at the Winona overlook, but you get an up-close view of the Mississippi River and a nearby lock and dam. What a view!
There may not be many leaves left, but if you can, drive down to either spot and you'll be delighted with what you see.
Have a beautiful or unusual spot you'd like me to photograph for KARE 11 Sunrise? Here's how to contact me:
Email: emccardle@kare11.com
Twitter: @ElleryTV
Facebook: facebook.com/ElleryTV
Instagram: @ellerymctv