THE TAKEAWAY
- Now is the perfect moment to prepare for leaf-peeping season, with autumn colors starting as early as September.
- The timing of leaf-peeping season mainly depends on elevation and geographic location.
- The Southern Appalachians boast one of the longest leaf-peeping seasons in the country.
Fall is just around the corner, and with it comes the much-anticipated leaf-peeping season.
And no, it’s not what you might think—this refers to leaf-peeping, where assorted forests across the nation burst into stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow.
It’s an ideal opportunity for a scenic trip to witness the leaves in all their glory.
Whether you’re planning a journey to New England, the Great Smoky Mountains, or a weekend venture nearby, here’s a guide to help you plan your fall foliage experience, including when you can expect peak colors and some of the best spots to soak in the autumn hues.
Fall foliage forecast
However, factors like temperature changes, rainfall, and cold fronts can all affect when the leaves change, occasionally shifting the timing of peak foliage by days or even weeks from year to year.
