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MIDWEST

MIDWEST FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER

Discover when and where to see the Midwest’s Top Foliage Destinations

Find Fall Midwest Foliage Map

Peak Foliage Key

  • Late September
  • Early October
  • Mid October
  • Late October
  • Early-Mid November
  • Mid-Late November

2024 Midwest Foliage Tracker

25%
Peak: Oct 5 - Oct 25
2024 Midwest Fall Experience


2024 Midwest Foliage Forecast

The Midwest region offers a classic autumn experience with a unique charm. Here's what to expect for the 2024 fall foliage season:

Northern Midwest (Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota)

  • Mid-September to early October: Peak colors in northern areas
  • Early to mid-October: Peak colors in central and southern parts

Central Midwest (Iowa, Nebraska)

  • Early to mid-October: Peak colors across most areas
  • Mid to late October: Extended color viewing in southern regions

Southern Midwest (Missouri, Kansas)

  • Mid to late October: Peak colors in northern parts
  • Late October to early November: Peak colors in southern areas

Note that specific timing can vary based on local conditions and elevation. The gradual south-to-north progression of fall colors offers an extended viewing season across the Midwest.


Regional Tree Composition

The Midwest's fall palette is created by a diverse mix of deciduous trees, including:

  • Sugar Maples: Brilliant oranges and reds
  • Red Maples: Vibrant reds
  • Oak Trees: Deep reds and russet browns
  • Aspen: Golden yellows
  • Birch: Bright yellows
  • Hickory: Golden bronze
  • Elm: Yellow to brown
  • Sumac: Bright reds
  • Cottonwood: Yellow

The mix of trees varies across the region:

  • Northern states feature more maples, aspens, and birches
  • Central states offer a mix of oaks, maples, and hickories
  • Southern areas showcase more oaks and elms

This diversity creates a rich tapestry of fall colors, from the golden prairies to the vibrant woodland areas.


Unique Regional Features

The Midwest offers several unique features that enhance the fall foliage experience:

Diverse Landscapes

  • Prairie landscapes with golden grasses and isolated bursts of color
  • River valleys like the Mississippi and Missouri offering scenic fall drives
  • Lake Superior shoreline in Minnesota with dramatic cliff-side color displays

Agricultural Beauty

  • Harvested cornfields and soybean fields adding to the autumnal aesthetic
  • Pumpkin patches and apple orchards offering fall harvest experiences

Outdoor Activities

  • Excellent hiking opportunities in state and national parks
  • Fall fishing seasons coinciding with peak foliage
  • Scenic byways perfect for leaf-peeping road trips

Cultural Experiences

  • Numerous fall festivals celebrating harvest season
  • College football games set against beautiful autumn backdrops
  • Historic small towns offering charming fall atmosphere

The Midwest's fall experience combines natural beauty with cultural richness, offering a quintessential autumn in America's heartland.

Other Regions to Explore

1. New England

2. Mid-Atlantic

3. Southeast

4. Great Lakes

5. Midwest

6. Southwest

7. Mountain West

8. Pacific

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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
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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

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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. 

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

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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
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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
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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; Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina; Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama
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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

Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas

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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

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