Bright but Short Fall Foliage Season Predicted Across US

AccuWeather’s 2025 fall foliage forecast predicts a dazzling but fleeting autumn season across much of the United States. According to meteorologists, brilliant displays of red, orange, and gold are expected in 25 states, outshining last year’s colors in many regions. However, the window for peak color will likely be shorter than usual, particularly in areas experiencing early frost or prolonged dry conditions.

New England is set to deliver the classic fall spectacle, with Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine forecast to see especially vivid hues at higher elevations in late September and early October. The Rockies are also predicted to shine, with Colorado’s aspen groves and Utah’s mountain slopes bursting into bright yellow and orange. In the Midwest, states like Wisconsin and Michigan are expected to offer vibrant displays but may see leaves drop earlier than normal due to weather fluctuations.

In contrast, parts of the South and lower Midwest could see muted colors and premature leaf drop caused by drought stress and lingering summer heat. “While the foliage will be spectacular, the peak period for color will be more compressed than in past years,” AccuWeather forecasters said.

Travel experts recommend planning foliage trips carefully to catch the best views. Early-season travelers will benefit from prime conditions at higher elevations, while mid-October will be ideal for lower-altitude regions. Despite the shortened window, 2025 promises some of the most striking fall colors in recent memory for leaf peepers willing to time their trips right.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com