Fall Color Timing by Location
Use historical satellite phenology to see when a landscape usually enters its main autumn transition, then check current weather separately before making the trip.
2026 calibration beta
Current weather context
These NWS temperatures do not alter the historical satellite timing score. They are shown separately because current weather can affect what you actually find on the ground.
Why a window is better than a fake peak percentage
USA-NPN’s Mid Green-down Median comes from MODIS satellite greenness from 2001–2017. Its median absolute deviation shows how much that timing varied historically. Together they create a defensible timing band rather than an invented “82% peak” number.
Use current observations for the final trip call
This tool is not a live leaf camera or a current-season color survey. Check USDA Forest Service fall color reports and local observations where available, especially once you are inside or beyond the historical timing window.