State Foliage report published October 3rd

[admin]

With the first frosts of the year showing up across Vermont over the last week and recent stretches of bright sun and modest rain, foliage displays have gone to another level and colors are bursting. All stages of color development are now present across the Vermont landscape and there’s something for everyone, though not all in one place. Travelers exploring across the state will find areas that are still predominantly green, regions developing more autumn hues by the day, and places at peak color—and perhaps even a few pockets past peak.

The foliage display is unfolding in almost textbook order with all regions right where we would expect them to be: The Northeast Kingdom and higher elevations along the east slopes of the Green Mountains are experiencing maximum saturation, while colors have come on strong and are increasing by the day in central regions. Foliage is still developing across much of Southern Vermont with bright color in the Champlain Valley. With cooperative weather (cool and sunny days and crisp nights, with no snow, no strong winds, and no heavy rain) we are expecting more brilliant color throughout the state in the days and weeks ahead.

Peak foliage is considered the most extensive and intense color dispersed across the widest extent of the landscape, but part of the magic of the season is seeing the full spectrum of fall color for yourself. Share what you’re observing with #FallForVT22 on social media and see what others are experiencing on their fall adventures, too.

Recreation Recommendations and Best Bets

One great way to see multi-dimensional fall color is from the water, with leaves above and their reflection below. Consider a paddle on, or a scenic hike alongside, one of the state’s many lakes and ponds. Lake Willoughby in Westmore is a great destination, with nearby hikes like Mount Pisgah, Mount Hor, Haystack Mountain, or Wheeler Mountain. Osmore Pond is another hidden gem, located at New Discovery State Park in Groton State Forest, which also features horseback riding and horse-camping for equine-minded adventurers.