Photo by Ed Schipul (link: https://flic.kr/p/5urxW9)

With fall comes the changing of the seasons and with the changing seasons comes incredible beauty at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Dazzling trees, adorned with red, orange, golden, and brown leaves. That short span of time between that last gasp of summer and before the cold breath of winter.

Sure, you’ve probably admired these changing leaves at some point in  your life. We’ve all done it. But there is a more avid group of fall leaf enthusiasts called “leaf peepers”. Now, this might sound a little creepy at first, but we promise — it’s nothing of the sort.

Leaf peeing is the act of traveling intentionally to see the changing leaves. The origins of the term are rather fuzzy, however leaf peeping is a big hit anywhere trees are in abundance…especially in the New England states. But it only takes one visit to the Lake of the Ozarks in the fall to see that we are the perfect destination to get your fill of leaf peeping.

In case you’re scratching your head, wondering if you might be a leaf peeper, here are three signs to look for:

1. You find yourself gazing out the window, a little too often, while driving. We don’t blame you! The beauty of nature can make it rather difficult to look away. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road! One tip is to find a rest stop or scenic vantage point to stop and take it all in. These changing trees look even more gorgeous when you can stand still and look at every detail.
2. Your Facebook page is filled with photos of trees, glistening with orange, red, and gold. Don’t be shy to admit it. As fall arrives, you find yourself taking more photos of trees with your phone and either sharing them on Facebook or sharing them with friends and family. You may also take multiple photos from different angles in order to get that perfect shot!
3. You stash a pair of binoculars in your purse or glove compartment, “just in case”. This one is for the hardcore leaf peepers. Because there are times when you just can’t get close enough. Thankfully, at the Lake of the Ozarks, there are plenty of walking and hiking trails to get up close and personal with fall foliage.

Whether you’re a proud leaf peeper or just a casual observer of fall, there are few destinations better than the Lake of the Ozarks to see fall foliage in all its glory.