With the fall colors finally beginning to appear in our area, my husband and I set off on a leaf-peeping adventure. We decided to explore Raven Rock State Park, which is a quick 20 to 25-minute drive from our house. It was a cloudy, crisp fall day—perfect for admiring the autumn foliage.

Our initial plan was to check out the Fish Traps Trail, but we ended up on the Raven Rock Loop Trail. The path gradually descended through the forest, leading us to a junction after about 1/4 mile. We decided to head right and follow the Little Creek Loop Trail. This roughly 3-mile-long path follows a small creek to a camping area before looping back to reconnect with the Raven Rock Loop Trail.

There were beautiful mountain laurel shrubs and fall colors along the way. We saw a few deer at one point and only a handful of other hikers as we meandered through the woods. Our dog had a blast smelling every plant and tree he could and getting his paws wet in the creek. Little Creek Loop Trail was the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning—we’ll definitely be back to check out more trails in the state park.