Autumn has been a little warmer than normal this year and leaves have been slow to begin their magnificent transformation from green to bright gold and red. The cold front that has enveloped the Texoma area this week will send a signal that the time has come and the hills surrounding Lake Texoma will soon become a tapestry of colors.
The deep, dark green of native Cedar will form a backdrop for the bright burnt orange leaves of the Elms, Red, Pin and Black-jack Oaks which are predominant in the area. The dainty leaves of the Red Bud trees will almost sparkle as the breeze twirls their golden leaves in the sunlight. Drama is created by the deep purples of the plums trees – both the native Mexican Plum and the Purple Plum varieties. The fiery red Sumac will dot the countryside.
Fall has always been my favorite time of the year on Lake Texoma. The nights are cool and crisp and the days are mild and sunny. If you love the great outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities for whatever activity you prefer.
Got a Harley? What better way to enjoy the fall show than a drive along country roads and a casual lunch or dinner at a local diner. Prefer to peddle? The hiking and biking trails offer great places for birding or just observing nature. Make a point to see one of the largest American elm trees in Texas on the Cross Timbers Trail.
Do you love horseback riding? The equestrian trails at Platter Flats are a wonderful facility for camping and trail riding. Some of the campgrounds have been shut down for the winter months, but many more are open with frost-free water supplies.
Prefer to sit back and relax while viewing the show from the water? Several fall foliage cruises are scheduled this time of year and private charters are available. Bring your own boat and spend the afternoon cruising along the shoreline. A few launch facilities are closed, but most are open and operational.
Did I say fishing? As the water cools the striper fishing heats up. Whether you prefer top water action, dropping slabs, or using live bait, the stripers become quite feisty this time of year and they get bigger and bigger and bigger as we move toward winter. Fall is also a good time to fish for large and small mouth bass, crappie and catfish.
Lake Texoma is also the perfect place to gather with family and friends during the fall. Local marinas, resorts and private vacation home rentals offer accommodations for a couple wanting a weekend get-away or a large gathering to celebrate the holidays.
Whatever the reason, it ‘tis the season for enjoying the beauty of Lake Texoma.
Photos courtesy of Stephanie Henson and Glynda Ruiz