Foliage
It’s nearly autumn in New England. Soon the leaves will be exploding with color in shades of red, orange and yellow. Some color may begin to appear in isolated spots in far northern new england the first week in September. The color change typically begins at higher elevations and in the northern part of the region mid-September and moves southward through mid-to-late-October. It usually ends in southern New England coastal areas by the end of October. Visitors and vacationers traveling to see the foliage are known as “leaf peepers.” Although the term “peak color” is a bit of a myth, every person has their own idea of what peak color looks like. Typically the fullest color can be found from late-September in the north through mid-October in the south.
Foliage tips by state:
Color is vivid in Connecticut from about mid-September through late October. Don’t worry about missing peak color. You will still be able to enjoy a full array of colors that can be found before and after peak. Try to plan your trip during mid-week. You will find that roads are quieter, giving you more opportunity to enjoy the views. Make an adventure out of your trip by exploring back roads. Some of the best sights are off the beaten path.Make time to explore some areas on foot. Hiking allows you to truly experience the foliage you have come to enjoy.
Maine coastal fall foliage is about scenic harbors dressed inn fall colors, and tees hugging the wild coastline as their leaves turn every shade of gold, red and yellow. It is an opportunity to ride an antique railroad for a train trip through the autumn countryside or go out to sea for a fall foliage cruise. Peak viewing time is mid-September in the northern areas to late October in the south and coastal areas.
Participating in Massachusetts‘ fall foliage season is a wonderful experience. Historic Concord is a great starting point for a day trip. The combination of the fall colors mixed throughout historical towns, regional farms and attractive landscapes is something everyone should experience. The Berkshires, in western Massachusetts, will not disappoint with it open vistas and rolling hills. Peak fall foliage is usually around mid-October.
New Hampshire draws millions of “leaf peepers” to see its beautiful display of fall colors. New Hampshire has beautiful landscape with covered bridges, granite ledges, rivers, Mount Washington all encompassed by the White Mountain National Forest. Fall foliage begins around mid-September in the northern regions and lasts through October in the lower elevations and seacoast.
Rhode Island has some wonderful seaside communities as it should in a state with the motto, “The Ocean State”. But, it also has many small towns, forested areas and beautiful vistas. Take a day drive through the many small towns and along its ragged coastline during foliage season for some splendid scenery. Peak time is early October.
Vermont’s foliage is famous the world over. The Vermont hillside dotted with church steeples bathed in the fall colors inspires photographers and painters every season to marvel in it’s beauty and to capture it forever. Peak viewing time is mid-September in the north to late October in the south.
