Maine preparing for spectacular fall foliage season

Contributed Article

    AUGUSTA — With the start of the Maine Fall Foliage season just around the corner, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) reports that conditions in the northernmost part of the state are primed for subtle color changes with very low leaf drop.

    Starting Wednesday, Sept. 10, the Maine Office of Tourism and DACF will provide an update on the gradual change in leaf color from north to south culminating in peak conditions in late-October.
    The reporting of Maine’s fall foliage conditions statewide by the DACF first began in 1959. Forest rangers submit their on-the-ground observations each week throughout the reporting season (Sept. 10 – Oct. 25) at www.mainefoliage.com — Maine’s official fall foliage website.
    A map indicating current foliage conditions with a useful foliage color key is updated weekly. Visitors to the site can also find information on Facebook. While navigating the website, leaf peepers can register to receive weekly reports and submit their favorite fall foliage photos.
    The site also provides information about complimentary ranger-led fall foliage tours in Maine’s state parks. A trip to Maine would not be complete without a visit to one of 48 state parks and historic sites, and vast acres of public reserved lands.
    Generally, the northern region of Maine is at or near peak the last week of September into the first week of October.
    Central, southern and western mountains are nearing peak conditions Oct. 6-18. Coastal Maine reaches peak conditions Oct. 13-25. Maine is a very popular destination during the foliage season, especially throughout the Western mountains and the Bar Harbor region that includes Acadia National Park.
    Now is a good time to plan a late-September getaway to Zone 6 and 7 in northeastern and northwestern Maine which includes Fort Kent, Caribou and Presque Isle to experience the first colors of autumn.
    There are scenic driving tours recommended on www.mainefoliage.com for the St. John Valley Cultural Byway and the County Circuit in the area.
    Go to www.visitmaine.com for more information about fall activities and events in Maine.