When travel and tourism expert John Poimiroo speaks about the changing of the leaves in California, people listen. Appearing on dozens of radio and television shows each year to discuss the fall foliage viewing and best fall foliage locations, Poimiroo is bullish in 2011, saying this could be a great year for the color displays. Why?

"In previous high water years, we've noticed longer lasting fall color. This, of course, is so dependent upon whether wind or storms in autumn knock leaves from the trees, but generally in wet years the color is long lasting," says the Northern California resident who monitors the fall foliage annually, broadcasting live reports on some stations.

Poimiroo's knowledge was utilized when Mono County (home to some of the best foliage displays) put together a map you can order and have sent to your home for free. The guide features approx. 17 suggested drives in the Sierra Mountains and surrounding regions. Order it online at monocounty.org, or call and ask for a copy at (800) 845-7922.

Could 2011 be even better than 2010 which was considered one of the most spectacular foliage seasons in recent time? Stay tuned to find out, says John Poimiroo. Here are some fall foliage locations people found especially noteworthy last year.

Below is a map that shows the foliage season or "leaf peeping" throughout the U.S. Notice that California's Sierra mountains experience their fall foliage peaks in October.