Plan Your Fall Foliage Trip
Vermont predicts a spectacular year of leaf peeping with peak around October 15. It’s a long trip from California but worth it! Book early — rooms sell out around the state’s most desirable destinations.
Lesser known California fall foliage (pictured) is on a similar track, according to fall foliage expert, John Poimiroo (californiafallcolor.com). He says the High Sierras are currently your best bet for color change with yellow leaves prominent in mid-September 2017. Maximum viewing typically begins in the highest elevations in September, and ends in the lower elevations and foothills in mid-to-late October. However, storms can abruptly end the viewing season. Fall brings popular events such as Oktoberfest to mountain resorts before the ski season goes into full swing.
California Fall Color Viewing
- Warm, dry days and cool, clear nights (under 45°F) mean brilliant colors.
- Rainy days and warm nights result in less intense coloration.
- California’s cloudless skies and extreme range of elevations (sea level to 14,000′) provide ideal conditions for the development of consistently vivid fall color.
Mid-September 2017
- Bishop Creek Canyon – Starting
- June Lake – Starting
- Ebbett’s Pass – Starting
- Lake Tahoe – Starting
- Shasta Cascade – Starting
- Big Bear/So. Calif – Starting
