Lost Maples is a beautiful park and worth a visit any time of year (except cedar allergy season). But the few weeks each autumn when the leaves turn red and gold are the best.

The Maple Trail and part of the East Trail form a 1.5 mile loop that crosses the Sabinal River twice at stepping-stone fords. When the leaves fall, they blanket the ground and surrounding hillsides. The East Trail also makes a wider loop past natural overhangs, over a steep hill, and down to a small pond. My opinion: don’t bother with the overlook at the top. It’s the same view along the trail a few minutes later.

Last time I tried to go (Fall 2005), I was amazed at the line—at least three miles of cars parked on the two-lane road, waiting to get in. Camping reservations are probably the best way to secure a visit in October-November.