The 2024 fall foliage season in the Midwest is expected to bring a vibrant display of colors, with peak times varying by state and region. Typically, fall colors in the Midwest peak from late September through October, with northern areas reaching their peak earlier than southern regions. Here’s what to expect and where to go for the best views this season.
Peak Times by Region:
- Upper Midwest (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan): Northern areas, especially in Minnesota’s North Shore, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Wisconsin’s northern forests, will reach peak color in late September to early October. By mid-October, southern parts of these states will be at their most vibrant.
- Central Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio): In states like Illinois and Indiana, foliage typically peaks in mid-to-late October, while Ohio’s northern regions hit their peak a bit earlier, around early to mid-October.
- Southern Midwest (Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee): Fall colors in these southern areas peak later, usually in mid-to-late October, and can extend into early November, particularly in Tennessee.
Top Destinations for Fall Foliage:
1. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is one of the best places in the Midwest for leaf-peeping. The region’s mix of maples, birches, and aspens creates a stunning array of reds, yellows, and oranges. Popular routes include the Porcupine Mountains and the Lake of the Clouds, where fall colors peak in late September to early October. The scenic M-22 Highway along the Lake Michigan shoreline is another must-see.
2. Door County, Wisconsin
Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is known for its quaint towns, apple orchards, and expansive water views, all framed by vibrant fall foliage. Peak colors typically arrive in early-to-mid October, making it a perfect destination for an autumn road trip. Peninsula State Park offers excellent hiking trails and scenic overlooks to view the colors.
3. Hocking Hills, Ohio
Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park is a popular spot for fall foliage enthusiasts, with its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. By early-to-mid October, the area is filled with vivid shades of red and orange. The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is a 26-mile stretch through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the season’s colors along with several hiking trail options.
4. Shawnee National Forest, Illinois
In Southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest offers a more remote leaf-peeping experience, with peak colors arriving in mid-to-late October. The Garden of the Gods is a standout destination within the forest, known for its dramatic rock formations and sweeping views of the surrounding foliage.
5. Brown County, Indiana
Brown County State Park in Indiana is often referred to as the “Little Smokies” due to its rolling hills and densely forested landscape. Peak fall colors in the park typically occur in mid-October, making it a prime spot for scenic drives and hiking. The Abe Martin Lodge is a great base for those wanting to stay overnight and enjoy the full range of fall activities.
Planning Your Trip:
Peak fall colors in the Midwest can vary slightly depending on weather conditions. Cooler temperatures and sunny days followed by crisp nights generally enhance the vibrancy of fall leaves. If you’re planning a road trip, try to schedule it for early-to-mid October in northern areas and mid-to-late October in southern areas. Weekdays and early mornings are best for avoiding crowds and getting the best light for photography.
In 2024, the Midwest’s fall foliage season promises to deliver stunning autumn colors across forests, parks, and scenic byways. Whether you’re driving through the forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or hiking the trails of Hocking Hills, this fall will be a prime time to witness nature’s seasonal beauty.
