The mountains of the Southwest Virginia are bursting with color, with the higher mountain areas “at or near their peak foliage change,” according to the state’s fall foliage report for the weekend of October 21.
“Colors along the Blue Ridge are highly variable, ranging from patchy to near peak, often in close proximity. A little driving is sure to pay off with stunning color displays,” said the weekly report issued on Thursdays by the tourism department.
In the Blue Ridge, red and sugar maple trees are showing their bright orange and red colors, while hickory trees are glowing in golden tones.
Closer to home in central and Northern Virginia, the trees are only halfway to their peak.
“Central and Northern Virginia have up to 50 percent color change, but that be patchy, as these areas have many oaks which change later in the season,” the tourism department said.
Peak is Nearing in Western Maryland
In Maryland, the Department of Natural Resources weekly report, which is also issued on Thursdays, said that peak lead change is “right around the corner in the western half of the state.”
Despite weekend rains that brought about some premature leaf loss, the department said weather conditions during the weekdays have been “ideal” for the leaves.
“The maple leaves have all turned while the oak trees are at various stages of color change with many still holding green leaves,” says Sean Nolan, forest manager at Maryland’s Savage River State Forest in Western Maryland.
“The color change is definitely coming in waves, with individual trees showing vibrant colors and surrounding trees showing subtle changes. I would say we have certainly reached the midpoint and are moving toward peak as the oak trees continue to change.”
Feature image of the Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area courtesy Virginia Tourism Corporation
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