SOUTHWEST
SOUTHWEST FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Discover when and where to see the Southwest’s Top Foliage Destinations
![Find Fall Southwest Foliage Map](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_800,h_331/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WPP_Maps_Region_SouthWesteren-1024x424.png)
Peak Foliage Key
- Late September
- Early October
- Mid October
- Late October
- Early-Mid November
- Mid-Late November
2024 Southwest Foliage Tracker
2024 Southwestern Fall Forecast
The Southwest offers a unique fall experience that diverges from traditional autumn expectations. While the region may not boast the expansive deciduous forests found in other parts of the country, it presents its own distinct seasonal beauty.
Fall experiences in the Southwest vary greatly by elevation and specific location:
- Mid to Late September: Higher elevations in northern New Mexico and Arizona begin to show color changes
- October: Peak time for fall colors in mountain regions and higher elevations
- November to December: Lower elevations may see subtle color changes, particularly in riparian areas
Unlike regions with a more traditional fall, the Southwest's autumn is characterized by subtle changes, pockets of vibrant color, and a continuation of warm, pleasant weather in many areas.
Regional Flora Characteristics
The Southwest's fall experience is shaped by its unique flora, which differs significantly from traditional autumn foliage regions:
- Cottonwoods: Bright yellow leaves, often found along river valleys
- Aspens: Golden hues in higher elevations and mountain areas
- Gambel Oak: Russet and gold colors in mountainous regions
- Sumac: Vibrant reds in scattered locations
- Desert Plants: Subtle color changes in cacti and succulents
- Riparian Areas: Pockets of fall color along streams and rivers
The region's numerous evergreen trees and desert plants provide a contrasting backdrop to the limited but striking fall colors. This creates a unique visual tapestry that defines the Southwestern autumn experience.
Unique Regional Features
The Southwest offers a non-traditional fall experience for several reasons:
Diverse Landscapes: From high desert to alpine forests, the region's varied elevations and ecosystems create microclimates with unique fall characteristics.
Limited Deciduous Trees: The scarcity of large deciduous forests makes fall colors more precious, often concentrated in specific areas like canyons or mountain slopes.
Extended Season: The fall experience can last from September through December due to elevation differences, offering a longer period for autumn activities.
Mild Weather: Unlike colder regions, the Southwest often enjoys warm, sunny days well into autumn, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Unique Fall Activities: Autumn in the Southwest might include visiting pumpkin patches in the desert, attending harvest festivals in wine countries, or hiking through golden aspen groves.
Stark Contrasts: The juxtaposition of fall colors against red rock formations, vast deserts, or blue skies creates stunning and unique visual experiences.
This non-traditional fall experience offers visitors and residents alike the opportunity to redefine their concept of autumn, appreciating the subtle and striking ways the season manifests in this diverse region.
Other Regions to explore
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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
White Mountains, New Hampshire; Vermont’s Route 100; Acadia National Park, Maine
![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2560,h_1709/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chad-madden-cPa-7yByq3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
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
![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2560,h_1709/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chad-madden-cPa-7yByq3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
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
![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2560,h_1709/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chad-madden-cPa-7yByq3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
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
![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2560,h_1709/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chad-madden-cPa-7yByq3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
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
![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2560,h_1709/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chad-madden-cPa-7yByq3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
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
![Rocky Mountains](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1536,h_984/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bitmap-7-1536x984.jpg)
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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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
EXPLORING ALL THINGS FALL IN THE SOUTHWEST
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Fall Festivals of
the Southwest
![trees of different colors in fall](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1199,h_463/https://findfall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bitmap-3-1.jpg)
Top State Parks for Foliage in the Southwest
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Trees to See in
the Southwest
AUTUMN UNVEILED: EXPLORING ALL THINGS FALL
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Best Foliage Campsites
in the Southwest
A curated list of the best spots to pitch your tent in the Pacific this fall
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Top Foliage Photography
Spots in the Southwest
A curated list of the top spots to snap foliage pics in the Southwest
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Best Foliage Road Trips
in the Southwest
A curated list of the top foliage road trips in the Southwest
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Exploring Peak Foliage
in the Southwest
Exploring timing, characteristics, and places to explore foliage in the Southwest
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Best Foliage Locations
in the Southwest
A curated list of the top foliage locations in the Southwest
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Looking for the most up-to-date fall foliage information, itineraries, and ideas? Sign up for our Newsletter here.