2026 Fall Foliage Forecast: Peak Colors to Progress North to South
The 2026 fall foliage season is expected to follow its typical north-to-south and high-to-low elevation progression across the United States, according to the Farmers' Almanac (Farmers' Almanac, 2026). Peak colors will begin in late September in northern and mountainous regions, such as northern Maine, Vermont, and the Rockies, and will gradually move southward into November. The central Appalachians are predicted to showcase some of the most vibrant colors this year due to favorable moisture levels and cool mountain nights. In New England, higher elevations will see colors first, with valleys and coastal areas peaking later. The Midwest and Great Lakes regions will experience peak colors in October, while the Southern Appalachians and Gulf states will see their best displays in late October and November. Local factors like temperature, rainfall, and elevation will influence the timing and intensity of the colors.
