Fall has come to Wisconsin and as the chilly weather starts to set in, the leaves on the trees have begun to shift from green to shades of yellow, orange and red. Though the first day of fall was officially Sept. 22, the Wisconsin Fall Color Report says leaves in Milwaukee are at only about 20% of their peak.
Why do leaves change color in the first place? According to the Old Farmers Almanac, the process actually has nothing to do with the cooler temperatures. As the days get shorter, the lack of sunlight slows down chlorophyll production causing anthocyanins to trigger the red and purple colors. The lack of chlorophyll also allows the yellow and orange carotenoids, present all summer even though we can’t see them, to shine through – pretty cool, right?
Celebrate this year’s winners of the Betty Awards!
The colors can change fast depending on the conditions of where you’re visiting. Milwaukee’s peak is estimated to hit next week (Oct. 11-17) along with Waukesha, Bristol Wood County and Lake Geneva. Following close behind, Mukwonago, Racine County, Pleasant Prairie and Delafield are set to hit their peak Oct. 18-24.
If you’re hoping to travel down south to see the colors later this month, Oconomowoc will reach peak reds, yellows, and oranges in the last week of October from the 25-31. Oak Creek is currently at only about 10% of its peak and will be in full color Nov. 1-7.
Those interested in experiencing the magic of fall now should consider heading up north to Marinette County, where the trees are already 65% of the way through their seasonal colors. There are lots of beautiful hiking trails to enjoy in the waterfall capital of the state, including a self-guided waterfalls tour that’s especially beautiful in the fall.
Want more ways to experience fall in Wisconsin? Stay tuned for the October issue’s guide to fall hikes in Wisconsin.
