Eve by Augste Rodin at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids
Ever wondered what makes the leaves change color or how weather affects Michigan’s fall color show? Find the answer to these frequently asked questions and more.
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What is the best time to view Michigan’s fall colors? |
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Generally, the annual seasonal show peaks in stages, beginning at the top of the state in the Upper Peninsula, where it gets cooler first. It then moves southward. Peak color is usually found in the U.P. between mid-September and early October; in the northern Lower Peninsula between late September and mid-October; in mid-Michigan from early to mid-October, and in southern Lower Michigan from mid- to late October. Color patterns, however, depend greatly on the weather as well as other factors including lake-effect warming, which delays color changes near Great Lakes and inland water shorelines. In addition, cooler valleys or exposed hills may see color changing faster, so call ahead before you go. |
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How does weather affect the fall colors? |
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Weather conditions in summer and early September largely determine how brilliant each season’s colors will be. According to David Beachler, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, a dry, hot summer inflicts stress on the trees; therefore when it cools, the chlorophyll that breaks down in the leaves can produce a quick color change. Alternately, a cool, wet summer can produce a color show that is brighter and lasts longer. Adequate summer rainfall means leaves will be bigger and healthier come autumn. Autumn rain is desirable, but continuous cloudy weather is not, since that would stop the production that creates the brilliant reds and golds found in oaks and maples, Michigan’s most prevalent tree species. However, keep in mind that with the temperament of the weather, “Mother Nature” still has the final hand in how the colors change. |
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How many species of trees are there and what colors do they turn? |
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There are nearly 150 different species of trees in Michigan’s 18.6 million acres of forest. Our state boasts a colorful mix of yellows, reds, golds and oranges. Some of the most beautiful colors are displayed by such hardwoods as aspen, maple, birch, sumac and oak. When combined with a background of evergreen forest, the result is one of the best shows in the nation. |
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What will our fall be like this year? |
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TBD. Predictions are based primarily on recent, seasonal trends. |
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What is the best way to view West Michigan’s fall color show? |
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There is no single best way to enjoy the fall color display. West Michigan travelers have a plethora of ways to enjoy the show, either by car, train, boat, bicycle, hot air balloon rides, at festivals, hiking, on golf courses and luxury resorts, or historic highways. Many of these “old roads” cut through great stands of hardwood and pines and make perfect color tours, and some are state-designated scenic routes. |
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Are there driving tours already mapped out for my convenience? |
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You can find Autumn Color Tours here. From 40 miles to 140 miles, you’ll find the day trip that is perfect for you. |
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Is there a list of fall festivals and events for West Michigan? |
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Yes. Simply click “events” at the top of the homepage and begin searching. You can search for haunted events, food/wine festivals or harvest celebrations. Or, search the entire month of September (or October). Heading to a specific spot? Search for events in hundreds of West Michigan cities for that perfect autumn activity. |
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How can I keep track of the most current fall color conditions? |
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Listen to West Michigan fall color updates provided by the Michigan Audubon Society by calling the West Michigan Tourist Association conditions hotline at 800-442-2084, ext. 304. The recorded line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Conditions are also posted on “All Things Autumn” West Michigan Fall Color Weekly Update and updated each Wednesday starting in mid-September. |