Welcome to autumn in Iowa!
Atop rolling hills and along wooded river valleys the trees begin to turn color and the views become spectacular. Celebrate the changing seasons with an Iowa excursion.
Plan a getaway around one of Iowa’s many fall festivals or relax with a leisurely drive along a scenic byway — don’t forget your camera!
This weekly online report will highlight the changing fall foliage across Iowa. You can also call the Iowa Department of Natural Resources fall color hotline at 515.233.4110 for recorded information on where to see the best fall color throughout the state of Iowa.
Fall Foliage Report - Week of October 17
Welcome to Iowa's fall color report from the State Forest Nursery. This report is compiled weekly during the fall season. Call 515.233.4110 for a recorded message.
Northeast Iowa: Color is very subdued due to the increase in strong winds. The Red oaks and white oaks are turning bronze and the peak has passed.
Southeast Iowa: Fall colors are still in full swing. The red oaks are changing quickly and other species are showing good color right now. Fall colors should be good through this week.
North Central Iowa: The colors are still excellent in this part of Iowa, but recent windy days have stripped some trees of their leaves. The oaks are varying shades from green to red to brown, and the maples are still showing good color. Many hickories are bright yellow right now and offer excellent contrast. The upcoming colder temperatures will trigger the end of the growing season and fall color display. Hurry to your local state park or county conservation area to take in the colors while they last.
Central Iowa: The red oaks, bur oaks, and white oaks are bronze in color. The sugar maples are turning a vibrant orange. The peak has passed for this area.
South Central Iowa: The trees are passed their peak in this area of Iowa. The oaks are now turning yellow and the leaves are starting to fall. The maples in towns are still showing color, but most are losing leaves fast.
Northwest Iowa: Maples are going to a soft brown, while the oaks haven’t started changing yet. Hackberry, ash, cottonwood, and basswood, are either yellow or bare due to recent wind and rain. The peak has passed.
Southwest Iowa: The prairie ridges are gorgeous right now. Hackberry and bitternut hickory are showing some yellow. The oaks are still green. The peak for the oaks should be around October 24, but the other trees are past their peak.
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