Peak Time for Fall Leaves in Jasper, Arkansas: 2026

Fall is here in the Ozarks and the leaves are getting closer to their peak. According to this year’s Fall Foliage Prediction Map from The Smoky Mountain Region, the Ozarks are expected to reach peak fall color around October 27th, 2026. (However, this can change quickly depending on weather!) This correlates with the peak from last year that landed on October 31st. For the best chance to see peak colors, plan your visit to Jasper between October 27th – November 3rd. Check out our current Fall leaf conditions below, which is updated weekly.

Peak Fall foliage in Arkansas. Image via SmokyMountains.com

Current Fall Leaf Conditions: As of October 24th, 2026, peak color is roughly 60% around Jasper. Most tree colors are beginning to turn. Reds and yellows are visible. Sweetgum trees are turned at the edges turned, likely about a week from peaking. The peak period will usually last around 1-2 weeks, depending on the weather.

Fall colors on the Little Buffalo River near Jasper, Arkansas. Photo taken on October 20th, 2024.

If you’re looking for the best local spots to soak in the fall colors, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of 10 Places to Visit within 5 Minutes of Jasper. (Each location features Google Maps links for easy directions!) Our go-to hike is Round Top Mountain Trail, just 2 miles south of Jasper on HWY 7. It’s a fun trail with several overlooks that put the Ozark Mountains on full display. Perfect to explore before or after grabbing a bite in town. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, with easy parking right at the trailhead.

Sunset over Jasper, Arkansas during fall. Photo taken on November 8th, 2025.

Other top picks: Scenic Point, 3 miles south of Jasper, where a quick walk up the wooden lookout tower rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views. Koen Experimental Forest, 3 miles north of Jasper, which offers a paved interpretive trail showcasing over 30 species of trees and plants bursting with autumn color. Great if you are looking for a wheelchair accessible trail that everyone can enjoy. Or if you are looking for a place with river access right in Jasper, check out Bradley Park. It is a beautiful spot to watch the leaves fall right down into the water.

Above Mountain Edge Weddings located just south of Jasper, Arkansas. Photo taken November 5th, 2025.

And while you’re here, swing by Yeager’s Junction Quik Stop to meet “Jasper,” the plush American Buffalo and official mascot of the Buffalo National River. You can find “Jasper” and many more local treasures such as stickers, candy, and t-shirts. All make perfect keepsakes to remember your fall trip to Jasper! To see even more local goods and photos of the Ozarks, follow Yeager’s Junction Quik Stop on Facebook.