To predict peak season from the colors, use these guidelines:
? Dark Green/Little to No Change= peak is three weeks to a month away
? Light Green/Starting to Change= peak is approximately two to three weeks away
? Yellow/Approaching Best Color= peak is approximately one week away
? Orange/Best Color= foliage is peaking this week
? Red/Starting to Fade= still some nice color but won’t last more than a few more days
? Brown/Past Peak= all or nearly all color is gone
Statewide Fall Foliage Overview
After several periods of dryness during the growing season, much-needed summer/early fall rains helped stave off premature leaf drop, keeping forest canopies green. Cold nights, coupled with prevailing dry conditions during late August and early September stimulated noticeable color changes throughout Penn’s Woods. Fall foliage viewers should expect a vibrant season that arrives sooner and lasts for a slightly shorter period compared to recent years.
Northcentral Region
Foresters in Elk State Forest said area forests are just beginning to change. Sassafras, black gum, and spotty red maples are species showing attractive color, currently. The East Branch and Clermont areas are recommended for best viewing. Peak foliage is expected in approximately three weeks.
Foresters in Moshannon State Forest District said red maples are just beginning to turn yellow with some displaying a reddish tint. Birches are yellowing and sassafras and black gum are yellow/orange, contrasting nicely with oaks, which are still green.
Best regional color can be found along the Quehanna Highway from Medix Run to Karthaus, where you are likely to see some elk this time of year as well. Peak color is expected in two to three weeks.
