SOUTHEAST

SOUTHEAST FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER

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

Find Fall Southeast Foliage Map

Peak Foliage Key

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

2024 Southeast Foliage Tracker

10%
Peak: Oct 25 - Nov 15
2024 Southeastern Foliage Progression


2024 Southeastern Foliage Forecast

The 2024 fall foliage season in the Southeast is expected to be a vibrant display, thanks to favorable weather conditions throughout the year. While not as renowned for fall colors as the Northeast, the Southeast offers its own unique autumn charm.

Anticipated peak viewing times for the region:

  • Early to Mid-October: Higher elevations in the Appalachians (North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia)
  • Mid to Late October: Lower mountain areas and northern parts of the region
  • Late October to Early November: Piedmont areas of the Carolinas, Georgia, and northern Alabama
  • November: Coastal areas and southern parts of the region

Note that Florida and parts of the Gulf Coast may see minimal fall color change. The foliage season in the Southeast is generally more subdued and occurs later than in northern regions.


Regional Tree Makeup

The Southeast boasts a diverse array of deciduous trees that contribute to its fall palette. Key species include:

  • Maples (Red, Sugar): Bright reds and oranges
  • Oaks (White, Red, Scarlet): Russet, brown, and deep red
  • Hickories: Golden yellow
  • Sweetgum: Purple, red, and orange
  • Dogwood: Deep red to purple
  • Sourwood: Bright red
  • Tulip Poplar: Golden yellow
  • Beech: Light tan to bronze
  • Birch: Bright yellow

The region also features many evergreen trees like pines and magnolias, which provide a green backdrop to the changing deciduous leaves. Coastal areas may have less dramatic color changes due to the prevalence of evergreens and milder temperatures.


Unique Regional Features

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

Diverse Elevations: From the Appalachian Mountains to coastal plains, the region's varied elevations create a extended foliage season as colors progress from high to low altitudes.

Scenic Drives: The Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive offer some of the most spectacular fall drives in the country.

State and National Parks: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and numerous state parks provide excellent foliage viewing opportunities.

Mild Weather: The Southeast's relatively mild autumn temperatures make for comfortable leaf-peeping conditions.

Water Features: The region's numerous lakes, rivers, and coastal areas provide stunning backdrops for fall colors, especially in the Ozarks and along the Mississippi River.

Cultural Experiences: Fall foliage season coincides with many harvest festivals and cultural events throughout the region, adding to the autumn experience.

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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