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MOUNTAIN WEST

Mountain west FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER

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

Find Fall Rocky Mountains Foliage Map

Peak Foliage Key

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

2024 Mountain West Foliage Tracker

20%
Peak: Sept 15 - Oct 20
2024 Mountain West Fall Experience


2024 Mountain West Foliage Forecast

The Mountain West region offers a spectacular fall foliage experience, with colors cascading down mountainsides as the season progresses. Here's what to expect for the 2024 fall foliage season:

Northern Mountain West (Montana, Idaho, Wyoming)

  • Mid to late September: Peak colors in higher elevations
  • Late September to early October: Peak colors in lower elevations

Central Mountain West (Utah, Colorado)

  • Late September to early October: Peak colors in higher elevations
  • Early to mid-October: Peak colors in lower elevations

Southern Mountain West (Nevada)

  • Early to mid-October: Peak colors in higher elevations
  • Mid to late October: Peak colors in lower elevations (where deciduous trees are present)

Note that the dramatic elevation changes in this region create a prolonged fall color season, with higher areas turning earlier and colors gradually working their way down to lower elevations.


Regional Tree Composition

The Mountain West's fall palette is dominated by a few key species that create stunning displays against the backdrop of evergreen forests:

  • Aspen: Brilliant gold and yellow, often in large stands
  • Cottonwood: Bright yellow, common along rivers and streams
  • Maple: Reds and oranges, particularly in Utah and parts of Colorado
  • Oak: Russet and brown, providing a rich contrast
  • Larch/Tamarack: Golden needles on this deciduous conifer
  • Willow: Yellow to gold, often found in wetland areas

The composition varies across the region:

  • Colorado and Utah are famous for their vast aspen groves
  • Montana and Idaho feature stunning larch displays in addition to aspens
  • Wyoming's cottonwoods create golden ribbons along river valleys
  • Nevada's fall colors are more limited but still beautiful in mountain areas

This unique mix of trees, set against rugged mountain landscapes and evergreen forests, creates the iconic Mountain West fall experience.


Unique Regional Features

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

Dramatic Landscapes

  • Vast aspen groves creating entire mountainsides of gold
  • Contrast of fall colors against snow-capped peaks
  • Reflection of autumn hues in crystal-clear mountain lakes

Outdoor Activities

  • World-class hiking and backpacking among fall colors
  • Scenic drives through mountain passes
  • Fall fishing in gold-lined streams
  • Wildlife viewing as animals prepare for winter

Unique Natural Phenomena

  • Elk bugling season coinciding with fall colors
  • Opportunity to see termination dust - the first snowfall on mountaintops
  • Geothermal features in Yellowstone framed by fall foliage

Cultural Experiences

  • Fall harvest festivals in mountain towns
  • Scenic rail journeys through colorful mountain terrain
  • Ghost town exploration with a backdrop of fall colors

The Mountain West's fall experience combines breathtaking natural beauty with exhilarating outdoor adventures, offering a unique autumn journey through America's high country.

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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