Can you believe we’re just 12 days away from the first day of fall?!

Not sure if it’s just us, but summer sure did zoom by! The Lake of the Ozarks is bustling full of energy during the summer. Lots of people. Lots of parties. Lots of live music, events, and gorgeous fireworks over the Fourth of July weekend. It’s a wonderful time to be at the lake.

As with every summer, it eventually comes to an end. As temperatures drop and the crowds subside, a new, majestic beauty arrives. Fall (or Autumn – whatever you like to call it) at the Lake of the Ozarks is truly magical. If you’ve only visited during the summer, here are three reasons you should make the trek this fall:

1. Foliage galore: Golds. Reds. Oranges. Browns. If you’re eyes are craving some natural beauty, look no further. Autumn is the perfect time of year to explore around the lake on foot. Navigate trails. Enjoy the peace and quiet. Soak up the wild colors Mother Nature has to offer. The leaves during this time of year even make the Dogwoods jealous!
2. The crowds are gone: Boats on the lake begin to thin out. Kids head back to school. The pace at the lake begins to slow down. If a tranquil, slower pace is what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed. Sure, there’s still people. But nothing like the summer. Take advantage of this peace. Our days are often hectic, especially between Halloween until the holidays in December. Come on down and get a much needed breather away from it all.
3. So very cozy: Fall means cozy jackets, occasional scarves, and all things pumpkin spice. And of course, fall just isn’t fall without a piping hot mug of apple cider. This is also an especially fun time of year to visit the many antique stores found at the Lake of the Ozarks. Here’s a list of some of the festivals and craft fairs happening this fall.