This Blount County Alabama Town Peaks In Autumn Colors

Tucked in the Appalachian foothills, Oneonta operates as a small city of 7,000 that maintains small-town atmosphere despite proximity to Birmingham.

The downtown district features early 20th-century buildings housing independent shops, with murals and historic homes adding architectural interest.

Fall brings peak conditions for the area’s main draws: covered bridges, mountain overlooks, and outdoor trails.

1. The Covered Bridge Appeal

Blount County bills itself as Alabama’s Covered Bridge Capital, with several historic structures within easy driving distance of Oneonta.

Fall foliage transforms these sites into prime photography destinations when autumn colors frame the wooden bridges. The annual Covered Bridge Festival on October 11 combines arts and crafts, live entertainment, vintage car shows, and local vendors with tours of the bridges themselves.

2. Palisades Park and Mountain Views

Palisades Park features pioneer cabins, a historic schoolhouse, an arboretum, and pavilions alongside its one-mile nature trail.

The trail provides views of rolling hills and valleys, with Inspiration Point serving as the primary overlook for fall foliage viewing. Surrounding peaks including Red Mountain, Straight Mountain, and Ebell Mountain create layered scenery that peaks between late October and early November.

3. Beyond Oneonta Proper

Mardis Mill Falls in nearby Blountsville offers a 10-foot waterfall along Graves Creek that becomes particularly photogenic when surrounded by transformed autumn trees.

The combination of water features and seasonal color makes it worth the additional drive from Oneonta proper. Accommodation options include hotels in town or rental cabins in Blountsville for those preferring mountain retreats with countryside views and wrap-around porches.