North Central Georgia
This week there have been noticeable improvements in fall color development, especially across the highest elevations of north-central Georgia.
At this time, the primary species showcasing great fall color are understory species such as dogwood, sourwood, sumac, and some occasional maples. Generally, most of the overstory species such oaks, hickories, and birch are beginning to transition in the higher elevations, but mostly green in the lower terrain. The forest canopy across the higher elevations is transitioning and beginning to offer fall color enthusiasts with some nice displays. The most substantial change in fall color has occurred above 3,500 feet and on north and east facing slopes/aspects.
Estimated percentage of color change from green to date:
- 20% above 3,000’ 8% below 3,000’
We have been having much cooler nights and cool to mild days since mid-week last week. This type of weather pattern bodes very well for great and rapid fall color development across all elevation ranges within the next 2 weeks.
I anticipate the highest of elevations in Georgia to be at their optimum fall splendor within the next 10- 12 days, which would mean excellent fall color viewing for the final weekend of October! Elevations less than 3,000 feet should be having outstanding fall color the last week of October through at least the first weekend of November, all depending on mother nature of course.
We have not received any rainfall since we saw the effects of Tropical Storm Helene in late September. After receiving significant rainfall from Helene several weeks ago, we have been dry throughout north-central Georgia, and could use some rainfall. Frosty and cold
mornings are in the forecast this week for several mornings in north-central Georgia, which is great news for rapid, robust, and intense fall color progression across all elevations within the next 6-12 days!
Suggested scenic route: State Route 180 Spur, the road that leads to the highest point in the state, Brasstown Bald, is now showcasing some brilliant reds and dazzling yellow fall colors. Another great route is Wolfpen Gap Rd. also known as State Route 180, from U.S. 129/19 near Vogel State Park to State Route 60 in Suches. This State Highway passes by Lake Winfield Scott, one of the highest elevation lakes in Georgia. There are some excellent displays of fall color beginning to develop in this area.
There are a variety of fall festivals happening this upcoming weekend throughout the north-central Georgia area! The Gainesville Chicken Festival will be held on Saturday, October 19 in Gainesville. This Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20 is the Gold Rush Days Festival in Dahlonega. It is the second and final weekend of the Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay on Saturday October 19 and Sunday October 20. Also, it is the second and final weekend of the Sorghum Festival in Blairsville on Saturday October 19 and Sunday October 20.
Northwest Georgia
Color change is steadily progressing and is most apparent in areas above 1500 feet. Sourwood and blackgum in the understory and midstory are showing the most vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Most larger trees in the overstory remain predominantly green, though their shades are lightening. A small percentage of maple in the overstory have started shifting to orange, red, or yellow. Red oaks are still mainly green; but are beginning to show hints of red and orange. Chestnut oak remains green with brown to yellow edges. White oaks are mostly green with an occasional hint of golden brown, yellow, and orange. Yellow poplars have shed many of their leaves, but those still clinging on display a rich palette of green, yellow, and brown.
While overall color is still predominately green, vivid areas of red and yellow are becoming easier to find as the season progresses.
Overall color change is approximately 10%.
Estimated percentage of color change from green to date:
- 15% above 3000’ 10% below 3000’
Lack of rainfall throughout the late summer may have weakened a variety of hardwood species leading to potential premature leaf fall and lack of vivid coloration. Peak colors should arrive by the first week of November.
Overall color vividness and continuity will be largely determined on future weather events within the season. Rainfall and wind intensity in the following months will be the determining factor in how good of season we can expect. If multiple moderate to severe storms occur, it will lead to premature leaf fall and less overall color.
Suggested scenic route: Take Hwy 52 from Chatsworth to Ellijay (this route passes Fort Mountain State Park). From Ellijay, head West on Hwy 76 back to Hwy 411 (or head North on Hwy 76 into Blue Ridge).
Northeast Georgia:
3,000 feet and above: Warm temperatures have slightly delayed the fall colors this year but with much cooler temperatures in the forecast things should get right back on track. Overlooks are displaying slight color change to the landscape with some yellows and dots of red from periodic sourwoods. Roadside colors can be seen in sourwood and dogwoods ranging from deep burgundy to bright red. Yellows can be seen in hickory, walnut, birches, poplars, and sycamore. Very little change can be seen in maples with only a few displaying light red and oaks are still green but are beginning to lighten in the highest elevations.
If the forecast holds true for the next couple weeks, we should have a good season! The cool overnight temps and overall average temps for the daytime along with clear skies will provide great viewing conditions. Peak should occur the later part of the last week of October. The warmer temperatures in recent weeks have put us close to a week behind the last couple years’ rate of color change. However, the cooler forecast over the next few days will encourage the trees to get back on schedule.
Suggested scenic drive:
For NE Georgia, you can never go wrong with the Richard Russell Parkway in White County. Be certain to check the forecast before visiting. It’s not uncommon to be clear and sunny in the piedmont region and have fog and drizzle in the higher elevations that hinders the views. Another great area in Rabun County are the overlooks in Black Rock Mountain State Park. They have picnic tables and a shelter at the overlook which can be great if you pack a lunch. This is also close to the town of Clayton, which has many restaurants and shops to visit. Just a few miles away from Clayton is the Sky Valley overlook which is another favorite.