Sightseer: Lost Maples State Natural Area

In November, Texas’ largest stand of bigtooth maples shimmers with brilliant autumn colors. Tucked among the steep hills and canyons of the Balcones Escarpment, Lost Maples State Natural Area protects an orphan stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples famous for flashy fall colors of orange, red, maroon, and yellow. The leaves typically start changing in late October and peak around the second and third weeks of November. Rains tend to dampen the colors, while an October of sunny days and cool nights triggers the brightest shows. Park officials recommend visiting on a weekday, if possible, to avoid the weekend crowds.