As the plane started its descent over Bismarck, my five-year-old opened the window shade. We’d been engrossed in a game together on a tablet borrowed from the library, but the dings overhead and reminders to “be sure your tray tables are in their full upright position” told us we were almost home.

At first, the bright light was a shock to my eyes. But once they adjusted, I noticed something beautiful had happened in the five days we’d been gone. The leaves that had been completely green when we left had started turning shades of gold and red.

As we drove from Bismarck back to Minot (we found a great deal flying out of Bismarck instead of Minot), I watched the trees pass by my window, each at a different stage of their fall transformation.

I’ve heard it said that North Dakota only has two seasons: winter and construction. But the leaves tell a different story.

Fall is here, even if it’s fleeting. And while we may not have as many trees as some of our Midwestern neighbors, there are still plenty of places around Minot to enjoy autumn color.

If you love fall as much as I do, here’s your unofficial list of places around Minot to take in the colors while they last.

Camp Owetti Trail at Oak Park: All of Oak Park gets a dose of fall color in September and October, but this wooded trail makes the most of it. It’s an easy place to wander beneath the trees and get that unmistakable fall feeling while being in the heart of town.

Minot’s Outdoor Recreation Trail: Take in views of colorful rolling hils along the paved path, or head off onto the more rugged terrain for hiking and biking. This one is near Berry Acres Pumpkin Patch if you want to extend the fall fun.

Bark Park Trail: This one is easy to customize to your time and energy level. Start near the Bark Park by Jack Hoven Park or at Wee Links Golf Course and choose your distance. You’ll get some fall color, river views and a paved path that works well for bikes, scooters and strollers.

Bison Plant Trail: With thick trees and paths that twist through rugged terrain, this trail can make you feel a world away. It’s a good spot for hiking, biking, but strollers beware. Stick to the main trail, or explore some of the “challenge” trails that branch off.

Woodland Trail: The trail winds beneath a canopy of trees and crosses a small bridge over the water. It’s accessible for a range of ages and abilities and is stroller friendly. It’s also the site of Minot’s annual Pumpkin Walk in October.

For those willing to venture a little farther from town, there are a few more places worth adding to your fall list.

Cottonwood Nature Trail: Just west of Minot AFB, this is one of the few official hiking trails in the Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge. The moderate trail offers beautiful scenery, but keep in mind that it’s an out-and-back, so plan accordingly.

Denbigh Experimental Forest: A forest in North Dakota is worth exploring all on its own, but the history of this preserve makes it even more interesting. Many of the trees are evergreen, but in the fall, the whole area takes on a golden glow. You’ll find it between Granville and Towner.

North Dakota segments of the North Country National Scenic Trail: The North Country Trail ends in North Dakota, and its wooded landscape makes for a beautiful fall outing. Look for access points at Lake Sakakawea State Park and the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge.

Fall in North Dakota doesn’t stick around for long. One week the trees are green, the next they’re glowing, and before long we’re talking about snow.

So grab a coffee, load up the kids, take the dog or just go by yourself. You don’t have to travel far to find a little bit of fall in North Dakota. Sometimes you just have to slow down enough to notice it.

For more on life in North Dakota join me on social media @heyminot or online at amyallender.com