Fall foliage, the season when tree leaves turn into beautiful shades of red, yellow, and orange, is a great time to experience the outdoors and admire the beauty of nature. New England, the Rocky Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains, the Poconos and the Catskills are all excellent destinations for viewing fall foliage in the United States, thanks to the diversity of deciduous trees in the regions. The best times to catch the foliage can vary depending on locations, but generally occur in late September or early October. Not all trees change color in the fall, evergreen trees such as pines and spruces do not lose their needles and hence do not change color.

Fall Foliage: The Best Places to Catch the Changing Colours of Autumn

Fall foliage season is a magical time of year when the leaves on trees transform into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This time of year is a photographer’s dream come true, and it’s a great time to explore the outdoors and take in the beauty of nature. If you’re looking for the best places to catch the changing colours of autumn, here are some great destinations to consider.

New England

New England is perhaps one of the most well-known fall foliage destinations in the US. This region is home to a variety of deciduous trees, including maple, oak, and birch, which all contribute to the beautiful fall colours. The best time to catch the foliage in New England is typically in late September or early October.

Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains are another great destination for fall foliage. Aspens are the primary tree in this region, and their leaves turn a beautiful yellow colour in the autumn. This creates a stunning contrast against the rugged mountain backdrop. The best time to catch the foliage in the Rocky Mountains is typically in late September or early October.

Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are a popular fall foliage destination in the southeastern United States. This region is home to a variety of trees including maples, oaks, and hickories, all of which contribute to a stunning display of fall colours. The best time to catch the foliage in the Smoky Mountains is typically in late October.

Poconos

The Poconos region of Pennsylvania is another great fall foliage destination. This area is home to a variety of trees including maple, beech, and birch. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Route 6 or hike through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to take in the autumn colours. The best time to catch the foliage in the Poconos is typically in mid-October.

Catskills

The Catskill Mountains in New York are another great fall foliage destination. This region is home to a variety of trees including oak, maple, and ash, which all contribute to a beautiful display of fall colours. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Route 23 or hike to the top of Overlook Mountain to take in the autumn colours. The best time to catch the foliage in the Catskills is typically in late September or early October.

FAQs

What causes leaves to change colour in the fall?

The changing of the colours in the fall is due to a chemical reaction that occurs in the leaves. Chlorophyll, which gives leaves their green colour, begins to break down as the days get shorter and cooler temperatures arrive. This allows other pigments, such as carotenoids and anthocyanins, to become more visible.

When is the best time to see fall foliage?

The best time to see fall foliage can vary based on the location and weather conditions. Generally, the peak foliage season occurs in late September or early October in most areas of the United States.

Do all trees change colour in the fall?

Not all trees change colour in the fall. Evergreen trees, such as pines and spruces, do not lose their needles and therefore do not change colour. Additionally, some species of deciduous trees, such as elms and buckeyes, do not always have spectacular fall colour displays.