The days are already getting a bit crisper and the first day of fall, September 22nd, is coming up fast.
Millions of tourists flock to rustic New England in hopes of catching the best views of fall foliage.
This year, **fall leaf-peeping in New England** travel has Americans eyeing six fascinating states and their vibrant dates. As the leaves begin their splendid transformation, they beckon the curious and the contemplative to explore the natural beauty that unfolds across the northeastern landscape. In 2023, the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs reported a captivating 3.6 million visitors to the state, all drawn by the allure of autumn hues.
Interestingly, **a late start** in foliage this season owes itself to warmer temperatures. FOX Weather indicates that while the trees may take their time transitioning, an abundance of recent rainfall promises bold and vivid colors later this fall. Such climatic conditions create a unique juxtaposition; the lingering warmth allows for a greener canvas before the explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows takes over. The impact of heat waves during late summer adds another layer to this seasonal dance, keeping chlorophyll production high, thus extending the green phase.
But, not all regions share the same fate; areas grappling with drought face pressure on their trees. These stressed environments can prematurely darken the leaves or alter their timely shedding. Amid this variability, one truth stands: “October is the time to head to New England to see some great color,” the expert said. The anticipation builds as peak viewing is expected just before Halloween in the northernmost corners, shifting southward in the following days.
Founded in 1996, **Visit New England** has passionately encouraged explorers to partake in this charming spectacle. In this year’s colorful narrative, Vermont is emerging as a favorite once again, but not without competition from New Hampshire and Maine. Thus far, Maine seems slightly ahead, although it remains early in the fascination of fall.
While the **Green Mountains of Vermont** and the **White Mountains of New Hampshire** are renowned, a journey away from commonly trodden paths reveals astonishing gems across the region. These include scenic drives and lesser-known towns, each offering its unique tableau of nature’s artwork. The Berkshires in Massachusetts and Western Maine stand ready to surprise those willing to venture offbeat.
For those who relish cozy evenings, hiking trails and glowing bonfires provide a warm embrace as cool breezes swirl. Yet, the vibrancy doesn’t end there; cities such as **Boston**, **Newport**, and **Portland** offer a chance to witness nature’s artistry while navigating bustling streets or tracing coastlines. Here, travel enthusiasts can enjoy leaf-peeping from every angle, giving each moment a gentle touch of the unexpected.
Roads like **Route 7** and the **Upper Connecticut River Valley Loop** promise magnificent views, inviting travelers to soak in the scenery at every bend. A particular favorite, **the Merritt Parkway**, known for its historic nature and unique bridges, serves as a picturesque artery connecting New England to New York, showcasing sprawling autumn colors along the way.
Look towards the horizon as the leaves dance toward their climax, but for those planning a journey, it’s useful to glance at peak leaf viewing dates across the six states:
Farmers’ Almanac List of Peak Fall Leaves
Connecticut
October 12 to 28
Maine
Inland: October 1 to 17
Coastal: October 5 to 21
Massachusetts
Inland: October 5 to 21
Coastal: October 12 to 28
New Hampshire
Inland: September 28 to October 9
Coastal: October 5 to 21
Rhode Island
October 12 to 28
Vermont
Northern: September 24 to October 10
Southern: October 5 to 14
As the 2023 foliage season unfolds, let your curiosity guide you through the enchanting corridor of colors that shapes New England every fall. Every tree, every road beckons with the promise of discovery, nostalgia, and a fleeting moment that captures the essence of a season.
Andrew Wulfeck of FOX Weather contributed reporting.
