Foliage Report for September 13, 2024

Autumn in New Hampshire means rolling hills of blazing foliage that singe our forests in vibrant color. The state is just starting to see fall tones, with reds, yellows, and orange present which hint of a colorful show to come.

Great North Woods:  10-15% Color Change
In northern New Hampshire, the transition to fall is upon us as maple trees reveal stunning red leaves and forests are following suit. You’ll spot many trees already decked in orange and yellow leaves, suggesting more change is just around the corner. We hear Pittsburg is especially colorful, so keep an eye out and you’ll no doubt find foliage among thick forests.


White Mountains Region: 10% Color Change
In the mountains, higher elevations are seeing soft colors among the treetops with maroon, yellow, and orange leaves shimmering among a sea of unchanged leaves. The swamp maples have begun to take on color as well, so be sure to get out and explore to find first colors this weekend!


Lakes Region: 5% Color Change
In the Lakes Region, a sprinkling of trees have become cloaked in soft yellow and orange colors, especially along the slopes of mountains. In the areas surrounding Plymouth, you’ll spot trees singed with the first embers of orange and red leaves as the forests begin to take on more color.


Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee Region: 10% Color Change
The foliage is just starting in the west, and you’ll find dazzling pops of early color along I-89, especially through New London and Springfield. Reports of maroon leaves and early bloomer trees have been spotted across the region, noting the start of the fall transition.


Monadnock Region: 5-10% Color Change
In the Monadnock Region, many maple trees have ignited their transition to blazing foliage, while the majority of the region remains primarily unchanged. Early-changed trees are hidden around the region, offering surprise color so be sure to keep your eyes peeled especially around swamps and at higher elevations.


Merrimack Valley: 5-10% Color Change
Across the Merrimack Valley there have been reports of fully changed trees camouflaged in the largely unchanged forests. Changed leaves are primarily showing off orange and yellow leaves, with some maples displaying red leaves that only signal what’s to come.


Seacoast: 0-5% Color Change
On the coast, some trees have begun to take on a yellow glow, while most trees remain decked in shades of summer green. We can expect more color development over the next few weeks, so stay tuned for the latest updates!