As autumn blankets the Arkansas landscape, the state’s tapestry of colors attracts visitors from near and far. For those in search of the most breathtaking fall foliage, certain trees stand out as nature’s most vibrant artists. In Arkansas, the best trees for dramatic foliage that you should include on your must-see list are:

1. The Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) offers a dazzling array of colors, boasting shades from bright yellow to burnt orange and fiery red. Nature enthusiasts flock to the Ozarks for a view of these breathtaking displays.

2. The Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), with its star-shaped leaves, isn’t far behind. It splashes deep purples and reds onto the canvas of Arkansas’s forests, particularly notable in places like the Delta region.

3. The Eastern Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) graces the Natural State with golden yellow leaves that contrast starkly against its dark bark, enriching woodland walks throughout Central Arkansas.

4. The Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is more subtle yet equally elegant, presenting leaves of deep red and purple in the Ouachita Mountains, signaling a delicate shift in seasons.

5. Finally, the Sassafras (Sassafras albidum), often overlooked but truly spectacular, offers a kaleidoscope of colors all on one tree—ranging from golden yellows to vibrant oranges and rich reds throughout Arkansas’s river valleys.

Arkansas provides an impressive autumnal show thanks to these trees among others. Whether you are driving down scenic byways or trekking through hardwood forests, each tree mentioned above is sure to contribute to an unforgettable palette of fall hues in The Natural State.