Leaf peeping season is right around the corner and we know that Vermont is known for showing off its autumn colors like a perfectly painted movie set. But what about the late frosts and dry weeks of summer in 2018? Are those things going to hurt our chances for a spectacular show of color this year? There's one way to find out, let's take a look at this year's fall foliage prediction.

According to the New England Network, there are plenty of factors determining how brightly the fall colors are going to shine this autumn in Vermont. Many of those elements have already been determined by the weather earlier this year and some components have yet to play out.

Our cooler than normal spring kept the leaves dormant longer than usual with many trees remaining leafless until May. No leaves equal no leaf peeping, but fortunately, when the foliage started growing this year, it came out strong.

While the late snowpack from April helped keep the new growth leaves moist, lack of additional precipitation actually helped guarantee a strong fall display. The lack of rain during early summer aided in keeping leaf-eating fungus at bay.

Even with a very hot and humid summer, the regular thunderstorms have kept the leaves watered and healthy through the warmer months. So now that we know the leaves are healthy, what does that mean about the colorful display of fall foliage that we look forward to every year?

The fall foliage prediction for the Green Mountain State is looking bright and bold. Once autumn hits the mountains won't be green but rather ablaze with the gorgeous yellows, oranges, and reds that we crave to see.

The brightest colors will appear if early autumn has plenty of sunshine, cool nighttime temperatures, and no excessive periods of rain. The fall colors will be more affected by overcast skies and precipitation than they will be by temperature.

Taking into account the past weather of the year, the healthiness of the leaves, and the future predictions of autumn weather, this year's fall foliage should be everything you're dreaming of and more.

Expect a dazzling show of color although you might see the leaves start to turn a bit later than they have in the past. In Vermont, we know it's worth waiting for because once the season starts, it is absolutely glorious.

Whether you choose to take a long drive through the country, hike to the top of a mountain, or paddle downstream to enjoy autumn at its fullest, this season will not disappoint. Dust off your camera and get ready for a vibrant and colorful fall.

Are you excited about this fall foliage prediction? We are and we'd love to see your best fall photos from previous seasons, so share them in the comments section below. If you are looking for a wonderful perch to view the autumn color, take a seat at this cliffside restaurant and enjoy lunch with a view.