A streak of cooler days has us thinking about sweaters, pumpkins and leaves.
The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center expects above normal temperatures and normal chances of precipitation from September through November. So, the sweaters might have to stay tucked away for a bit longer.
What does the weather forecast mean for leaves? When will they change color? Since 2013, SmokyMountains.com has used historical temperature, precipitation and regional tree data and feedback from foliage fans around the United States to produce a map that shows a county-by-county view of the best times to visit for peak leaf-peeping.
In 2024, the concern was dry weather, which could impact the bright, fiery foliage across the region. Many factors, however, are involved in when and how leaves change color, according to The Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
The dates given below might not be hard and fast rules but more like guidelines on when to expect the leaves to appear in their full glory. Users are also encouraged to upload photos and details from their area to help improve the predictions.
Northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin could see peak leaf color in mid-October. Want to experience the red, yellow and orange tree canopy sooner? Travel farther north in late September or early October.
2025 fall foliage prediction map, by county
Click and drag on the button below to view the expected color change in leaves during the weeks ahead.
Source: SmokyMountains.com
Looking for a leafy location to visit in each of the 50 states? SmokyMountains.com has a guide for that too.
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