When to see fall colors in the US

Whether you like it or not, summer is almost behind us and leaf-peeping season is coming. This means it’s time to figure out when and where you’re going to head to see fall foliage in its full flavor.

SmokyMountains.com just released its annual fall foliage forecast map, which predicts when colors will hit their peak across the US. The season looks to start a bit later than normal this year for much of the country, due to warm weather sticking around in the Atlantic region longer than it typically does. The most vibrant colors look to pop out early to mid-October. Those in the Rocky Mountains, however, can expect near-peak foliage by late September and full-on epicness in early October. In the Pacific Northwest, be ready to roll by mid-October or earlier.

While SmokyMountain.com can’t ensure 100 percent accuracy, it has asked the best in the field of meteorology, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and looked at past trends to create this map, so you can hit the road to the nearest forest reassured.

To get ahead of the game, start planning your fall road trips now. By the time October hits, it’s time to grab a sixer of your favorite hard cider and toss your camping gear into the back of your truck to admire one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful spectacles.


More like this: The best scenic train trips to see fall foliage in the US

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