Best Time To See Fall Foliage in ShelbyKY

As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn arrives, ShelbyKY transforms into a breathtaking display of fall foliage. If you’re planning a visit to Shelbyville, Simpsonville, or the surrounding Shelby County, you won’t want to miss the vibrant colors that sweep across the landscape. From picturesque horse farms to scenic drives, ShelbyKY offers an unforgettable backdrop for leaf-peeping enthusiasts. Here’s when you can expect the best fall foliage in our beautiful region!

Peak 2024 Fall Foliage in ShelbyKY

In ShelbyKY, the fall foliage typically reaches its peak from mid-October to early November, depending on weather patterns and temperatures. The transition begins in late September, but it’s in October when the colors really come to life. The blend of maple, oak, and hickory trees creates a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold hues that paint the countryside. ExploreFall.com estimates that the slight leaf color will begin on September 1st, moderate leaf color will begin on October 16th, and peak color will occur on October 31st. Peak color is expected to last through November 6th. For the most vibrant views, plan your visit between October 15th and November 5th, when the colors are most radiant.

Top Spots to See Fall Colors in ShelbyKY

Whether you’re hiking, driving, or simply relaxing outdoors, ShelbyKY offers several scenic spots to take in the beauty of fall.

• Clear Creek Park – This peaceful park is perfect for a stroll or a picnic among the autumn leaves. The walking trails give you plenty of opportunities to admire the changing colors up close.
• Shelby Trails Park – Known for its horseback riding trails, this park also offers a stunning backdrop of fall foliage. Riding through the forest is a unique way to experience the season.
• Historic Downtown Shelbyville – Take a leisurely walk through downtown Shelbyville, where historic buildings and tree-lined streets create a charming autumn atmosphere.
• Mulberry Orchard Fall Fun on the Farm — Enjoy a dose of authentic Kentucky fall farm fun with a visit to Mulberry Orchard! With activities for all ages, enjoy a family-friendly outing to Mulberry Orchard. Admission includes the playground, games, petting zoo, corn maze, soybean maze, zipline, hayrides to the pumpkin patch, and, depending on availability, you-pick apples.
• Backroads of Shelby County – Take a scenic drive along our rural roads for sweeping views of rolling hills, farmland, and vibrant fall colors. The drive between Shelbyville and Simpsonville along US 60 offers particularly stunning vistas.

Weather and Timing Tips

To catch the best of the season, keep an eye on the weather. A warm, sunny day following a cool night often brings out the most vivid colors in the leaves. However, heavy rain or strong winds can cause leaves to fall earlier than expected, so try to plan your visit for a week with clear skies. If you’re unsure of the best time to visit, follow us on social media for real-time updates on the foliage or give us a call at ShelbyKY Tourism — we're always happy to help!

Embrace Autumn in ShelbyKY

Fall is a magical time to explore all that ShelbyKY has to offer, from our scenic parks to farm experiences and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, the beauty of our fall scenery will leave you inspired. So grab your camera, pack your coziest sweater, grab an apple cider from one of our fantastic coffeehouses, and experience autumn in ShelbyKY at its finest.

For more travel tips and updates on fall activities, explore our website, request a visitor guide, and stop by the ShelbyKY Visitor Center at 219 7th Street, Shelbyville, KY 40065!