Interactive Map Shows Regional Peak Dates for Autumn Colors in 2026
A newly released foliage forecast outlines when peak leaf color will occur across the U.S., with early changes expected in Montana and Idaho by mid-September. By late September, visible autumn hues are predicted to spread through much of the Northwest, Midwest, and Northeast. The map helps residents plan trips to see the most vibrant seasonal displays.
The Explore Fall map uses a date slider spanning September through December, letting users watch predicted color changes unfold nationwide. Its forecasting model reportedly lands within three days of actual peak color about 80 percent of the time. Users can zoom to regional views or search specific destinations, such as Salem, Massachusetts, which is projected to reach peak color on October 30.
The forecast shows a gradual progression beginning in the northern Rockies, with Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado showing early shifts. By mid-October, those states may already pass peak. The Southeast and parts of the Southwest retain color into November, while most of the continental U.S. concludes its foliage season by mid-November.
This map could help travelers and outdoor enthusiasts plan leaf-peeping trips with greater confidence, potentially boosting tourism in regions that time autumn events around peak color. Local businesses in rural areas may see increased visitors during narrow windows, while residents gain a practical tool for seasonal planning. The forecast's accessibility may also encourage more people to engage with nature, though its accuracy claims suggest users should treat predictions as guidance rather than certainty.