Yesterday was one of those stunning crisp clear fall days, and I could not resist the urge to get out for a hike. After breakfast I hit the road for the quick 15-minute drive from home to Palisades-Kepler State Park. The park lies along the Cedar River southeast of Cedar Rapids and sports vertical limestone walls along the river, high bluffs overlooking the river valley, and several miles of trails winding through the woods and along the bluffs. I was only seeking a hiking experience, but what I got was much more; a sublimely beautiful kaleidoscope of popping fall colors, drenched in the bluest of blue skies.

I took pictures, because I couldn't NOT take pictures, and I am sharing some of them here. Be aware that what you are getting here are edited versions to reduce their size and resolution to make them load more rapidly in your browser. If you might have an interest in seeing the orginals, I'd be happy to send them to you - just click the Send Feedback link above.