MID-ATLANTIC
MID ATLANTIC FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Discover when and where to see the Mid Atlantic’s Top Foliage Destinations.
Peak Foliage Key
- Late September
- Early October
- Mid October
- Late October
- Early-Mid November
- Mid-Late November
2024 Mid-Atlantic Foliage Tracker
2024 Mid-Atlantic Foliage Forecast
The 2024 fall foliage season in the Mid-Atlantic region is expected to be spectacular, thanks to favorable weather conditions throughout the year. A mild winter, followed by a wet spring and a moderately dry summer, has set the stage for vibrant autumn colors.
Peak viewing times are anticipated to follow this general pattern:
- Late September to early October: Higher elevations in New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia
- Mid-October: Peak colors in most of New York, Pennsylvania, and northern parts of Maryland and New Jersey
- Late October to early November: Peak colors in Delaware, southern Maryland, and coastal areas
Leaf peepers should plan for an extended viewing season from mid-September through mid-November, depending on the specific location within the region.
Regional Tree Makeup
The Mid-Atlantic region boasts a diverse mix of deciduous trees, creating a rich tapestry of autumn colors. Key species contributing to the fall spectacle include:
- Sugar Maples: Brilliant orange and red
- Red Maples: Deep crimson
- Oaks (various species): Russet, brown, and deep red
- Birches: Golden yellow
- Hickories: Golden bronze
- Dogwoods: Purple-red
- Tulip Poplars: Golden yellow
- Sassafras: Orange, yellow, and red
This variety ensures a multi-week progression of color changes, with different species reaching their peak at slightly different times, creating an ever-changing landscape of autumnal beauty across the region.
Unique Regional Features
The Mid-Atlantic region offers several unique features that enhance the fall foliage experience:
Diverse Landscapes: From the Appalachian Mountains to coastal plains, the region offers a variety of elevations and ecosystems, creating a extended and varied foliage season.
Historical Settings: Fall colors provide a stunning backdrop to the region's many historical sites, including Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and Colonial Williamsburg.
Urban Foliage: Cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. offer beautiful urban fall experiences in their numerous parks and tree-lined streets.
Scenic Byways: The region boasts several scenic drives perfect for leaf-peeping, such as the Skyline Drive in Virginia and Route 6 through Pennsylvania.
Water Features: The interplay of fall colors with the region's numerous bodies of water, including the Chesapeake Bay, Delaware River, and Finger Lakes, creates stunning reflective views.
EXPLORING ALL THINGS FALL IN THE MID-ATLANTIC
Fall Festivals of
the Mid-Atlantic
Top State Parks for Foliage in the Mid-Atlantic
Trees to See in the
Mid-Atlantic
AUTUMN UNVEILED: EXPLORING ALL THINGS FALL
Top Fall Wineries in the Catskills
Brought to you by Cyclone Rake Top Fall Wineries in the Catskills Discover charming vineyards nestled in the Catskills’ autumn
Top State Parks for Foliage in the Mid-Atlantic
Brought to you by Cyclone Rake Top State Parks for Foliage IN the Mid-Atlantic A curated list of the top
Best Mountains for Foliage in the Mid-Atlantic
Brought to you by Cyclone Rake Best Fall mountains IN the Mid-Atlantic Where to see the top foliage mountains of
Best Foliage Campsites in the Mid-Atlantic
A curated list of the best spots to pitch your tent in New England this fall
Top Foliage Photography Spots in the Mid Atlantic
A curated list of the top spots to snap foliage pics in the Mid-Atlantic
Best Foliage Road Trips in the Mid-Atlantic
A curated list of the top foliage road trips in the Mid Atlantic
Your trusted partner for fall cleanup.
Discover how this remarkable product can make yard maintenance a breeze.
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Looking for the most up-to-date fall foliage information, itineraries, and ideas? Sign up for our Newsletter here.
Other Regions to explore
NEW ENGLAND FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why New England
New England is revered as the most reliable foliage destination region in the US, and with good reason. It boasts a rich history, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities to complement your foliage expedition.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation:
Late September to Early October
Sea Level:
Early to Mid-October
Popular Destinations
White Mountains, New Hampshire; Vermont’s Route 100; Acadia National Park, Maine
Mid Atlantic FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why Mid Atlantic
The vibrant colors of a Mid-Atlantic fall beautifully complement its historic charm, rugged wilderness, and coastal allure. With its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Mid-Atlantic region is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Late-October
Sea Level: Late October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Hudson Valley, New York; Eastern Shore, Maryland
SOUTHEAST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Southeast
The Southeast combines stunning natural beauty with quintessential Southern hospitality. Journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, immerse yourself in the mystical allure of the Great Smoky Mountains that straddle Tennessee and North Carolina, or follow the Natchez Trace Parkway through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. From historic cities to breathtaking mountain landscapes the Southeastern US is where the charm and magic of autumn meet.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Late October to Late November
Popular Destinations
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia;Â Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina; Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama
GREAT LAKES FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Great Lakes
The Great Lake states enchant leaf peepers with their unique combination of natural beauty, gorgeous lakes, and enchanting wilderness. This region is a paradise for those seeking an autumn adventure that seamlessly blends the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes with the enchanting allure of the wilderness. The striking contrast of autumn foliage against the backdrop of vast, sparkling waters creates a visual masterpiece that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Mid-October
Sea Level: Early October to Late November
Popular Destinations
Door County, Wisconsin; Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan; Hocking Hills, Ohio
MIDWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Midwest
Explore tranquil lakes, rolling farmland, and charming small towns that come alive with autumn colors. From the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa, the Midwest’s natural beauty is complemented by the charm of its communities. This is a place where the autumn foliage showcases a quieter, yet no less enchanting, side of the season. It’s a region where you can escape the hustle and bustle, savor the crisp fall air, and embrace the simple joys of the changing seasons.Â
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin; Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa
SOUTHWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Southwest
The Southwest region offers a foliage adventure like no other. It offers an untraditional foliage experience, highlighted by the rugged beauty of the desert, the striking colors of the canyons, and the mystical allure of its arid landscapes. This region provides a captivating contrast to the typical autumn scenes, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures and find yourself enveloped in the warm, earthy tones of fall.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Mid-October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Early November to Mid December
Popular Destinations
Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas
Mountain West FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Mountain West
The Mountain West region presents a breathtaking foliage experience with its rugged peaks and alpine landscapes. Witness the aspen groves turning vibrant shades of gold amid the mountainous terrain and throw in a hike, camp, or canoe for an extra dose of adventure. The Mountain West is a region that captures the essence of autumn’s majesty at its most grand and dramatic.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Late October
Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Aspen, Colorado; Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho
PACIFIC FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Pacific
The Pacific Coast states provide a coastal foliage experience like no other. From the majestic Redwoods to the vibrant vineyards, it’s a region that combines natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the wine country of California, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, or Olympic National Park in Washington, the Pacific Coast states offer a captivating fusion of coastal charm and abundant fall colors. Here, you can witness the transition of seasons in a setting that’s both picturesque and culturally rich. This is where the allure of the coastline and the enchantment of autumn harmonize to create a one-of-a-kind foliage adventure.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early September to Mid-November
Sea Level: Late September to late November
Popular Destinations
Wine Country, California; Columbia River Gorge, Oregon; Olympic National Park, Washington