Scenic Fall Foliage Driving Trail

Vibrant red foliage of the Sumac can be
seen at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries
Center in Athens, Texas.
Photo courtesy of
Larry D. Hodge, TFFC.

Each autumn in Athens, the picturesque landscape transforms to the vibrant colors of red, orange and yellow as leaves begin to turn throughout the East Texas woodlands.

The City of Athens Department of Tourism offers a scenic driving trail for visitors to take this fall season to view the fall foliage of East Texas. Henderson County has breathtaking scenic highways and byways that are identified on the easy to follow interactive map.

Athens borders the Texas Forest Trail and Texas Lakes Trail Regions. Here you will find beautiful autumn color displays of the deciduous trees including oaks, maples, sweetgums and sumacs.

The 55-mile self-guided driving trail begins and ends at the Athens Partnership Center, located at 201 W. Corsciana Street, where visitors can pick up additional information about Athens before heading out on the tour.

The scenic driving trail includes several points of interest such as the NY-TX Zipline Adventures, located atop the highest point in Henderson County; the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, where visitors can walk the interpretive wetland trail and learn about the hatchery; next visitors can stroll through the gardens at the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society and view the fall foliage from the Arboretum's observation deck; Tara Vineyard and Winery is the oldest winery in Henderson County and offers a panoramic view of the rolling hills of East Texas including the stately Murchison Home, which overlooks the vineyard.

Autumn color is expected mid to late November but it is recommended to call ahead. Visit www.AthensTX.org for foliage reports and to download the interactive map.

It's Time to Register for the 16th Annual Turkey Trot

Come out early Thanksgiving Day to the Cain Center and join in the fun for the 16th Annual Turkey Trot!

Early bird registration is now open through November 15 and walk-in registration is open November 16 through November 27. Participants will also be able to register the day of the race starting at 7 a.m. on November 28.

This year, there will be a Drumstick Dash for children ages 0-12. Participants are allowed to bring their dogs, which must be kept on a leash at all times and a registration form must be filled out on their behalf.

For participant fees, event schedule and online registration information, please click here.