As summer starts to wind down and the first day of fall, September 22nd, approaches, millions of tourists are gearing up to flock to rustic New England in hopes of catching the best views of fall foliage. In 2023, 3.6 million people visited New Hampshire alone in the fall, according to the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs. The allure of vibrant autumn colors against the backdrop of quaint New England towns draws visitors from far and wide.
However, this year, FOX Weather reported that the foliage in the Northeast will have a delayed start due to warm temperatures but will be vibrant due to an over-abundance of precipitation. Heat waves occurring in late summer and early fall can delay the relaxation of chlorophyll production in trees, keeping leaves greener for longer into the season. In areas experiencing drought, the stress on trees can alter the timing of leaf shedding and lead to more muted colors.
Dana Honor, publisher of travel magazine Visit New England, expressed her hope for extra-vibrant colors in this year’s foliage. She mentioned that the peak viewing period is expected to be the days leading up to Halloween in the northern and western-most points of the region, with more central, southern, and eastern areas peaking in the days following Halloween.
Southern Vermont is predicted to be the first state to reach peak leaf viewing on September 24, 2024, according to weather experts. Visit New England has been advising travelers and tourists to discover the Northeast region since 1996. Vermont tends to be the most popular state for fall foliage, followed by New Hampshire and Maine. This year, Maine is slightly outpacing New Hampshire in terms of visitor interest.
While the Green Mountains in Vermont, the White Mountains in New Hampshire, Western Maine, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts are top destinations for fall foliage, other spots in New England also offer stunning views. Cities like Boston, Newport, and Portland provide a unique experience of fall colors as visitors meander through the streets or explore the coastline.
For those looking to take in the fall foliage while driving, Honor suggests scenic road trips along Route 7, Upper Connecticut River Valley Loop, and the Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop. The Merritt Parkway, connecting New England to New York, is known for its scenic sprawling trees and unique bridges.
According to the Farmers’ Almanac, peak leaf viewing dates vary by state. For example, in Vermont, the northern part is expected to peak from September 24 to October 10, while the southern part will peak from October 5 to 14. Each state in New England offers a unique and picturesque experience for leaf peepers.
In conclusion, as fall approaches, New England is gearing up for a spectacular display of autumn colors. Whether you choose to hike through the mountains or stroll through charming towns, the vibrant foliage of New England is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the beauty of fall in New England.
