If you have ever experienced fall in Colorado, you know for a fact that there is nothing else like it. From the feel of the crisp air to the sight of the vibrant trees, there is no better place to be this most anticipated time of year! If you thought autumn in Colorado couldn't get any better, you are gravely mistaken, as this year's fall foliage is expected to be more beautiful than ever. Here is why:
It may have been a super cold and dreary winter, but all that snow is now paying off, as this fall is expected to be prettier than ever!
Thanks to all of the above-average moisture we received during the winter and late spring, growing conditions are better than ever, which makes for healthier trees and even better colors.
Now that we know the benefits of the added moisture, it is time to discuss why trees change at all, which is due to the decrease in temperature and sunlight which breaks down the chlorophyll in the leaves.
Once the chlorophyll begins to decrease, the leaves lose their green hue and start transforming into the yellows, oranges, and reds we love so much.
While this sounds all-around promising, Colorado State Forest Service entomologist Dr. Dan West warned The Know Outdoors that there are still a few factors that may play into whether or not this fall is better than others, including our warmer-than-average temperatures and or too much precipitation.
If you have looked outside in the last few weeks, you have probably noticed the leaves beginning to change, but when will they peak? According to the Smoky Mountains' Fall Foliage Prediction Map, colors should peak in the beginning weeks of October and begin calming down around October 19th.
While you cannot go wrong with viewing any of the trees in the Centennial State, the best place to look is always in the mountains, with Dr. West adding that the oaks in southwest Colorado (specifically Durango and Silverton, pictured) are a sight to behold.
Have you noticed the leaves around your neck of the woods beginning to change? We would love to see your pictures in the comments! To learn even more about when to look at leaves, check out The Best Times And Places To View Fall Foliage In Colorado.
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