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NJ Fall Foliage Archive

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Foliage report archives, from 2010 – 2023.

For current reports see NJ Fall Foliage.

NJ Fall Foliage 2023

11/10/23… Final Report

This weekend and into next week… Color is still out there but trees are quickly losing their leaves, and it’s getting harder to suggest hikes with a good amount of color.

The best chance for any color is to look towards the eastern and southern coasts but expect more leaves on the ground than on the trees.

For our fellow year-round hikers – or anyone looking to be – head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

And don’t miss our Best Gifts for Hikers list to take care of the outdoorsy people on your holiday list …or to treat yourself!

11/7/23…

Currently… Look to the east coast for peak color with much starting to move past. There’s certainly color still out there but also expect lots of leaf drop, as per usual at this point.

It’s always harder at this point to make suggestions but these areas are the most likely to have colorful leaves, but of course there will be a lot of color on the ground too.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

🍁Be sure to check out the foliage overlay on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated twice weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations.

11/6/23…

Currently… Peak color is focused towards the coastal areas but it’s generally starting to move past. Certainly plenty of color pops still out there but also expect lots of leaf drop, as per usual at this point.

It’s always harder at this stage to narrow down the best foliage areas as it can be really variable from place to place. This weekend we found the drive to a park sometimes had more color than the park itself. It’s still worth getting out there for the remaining color.

11/4/23 – Cheesequake State Park [Middlesex County]
This area was pegged at peak on all of our sources but those come in late in the week. Lots of color on the trees in spots but also lots of leaf drop.

Hooks Creek lake with fall foliage.

Color change just happens really fast at this point in the season. By the time we got out on Saturday this area was edging fast towards past peak. Still beautiful out though!

Wooden trail staircase winding through yellow foliage.

11/5/23 – D&R Canal, from Rocky Hill to Colonia Park [Somerset County]
With temps stretching into the low 60s and some sun we opted for one of our favorite rides to fit in one more for the season (we hike year-round but are just not cold weather bikers).

Colonia Park foliage.

Foliage was past peak with a lot of drop but there were still punches of color everywhere. The color didn’t quite translate to photos, it was actually nicer in reality.

D&R Canal with past peak foliage.

11/03/23…

This weekend and into next week… Peak color is now focused towards the coast. Most of the northern third of the state is past peak. A band in the center of the rest of the state is moving past as well. Our Foliage/Hike Finder map shows the line of color in detail but the color change is quite quick now.

As usual we like to point out that “past peak” doesn’t mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that all the leaves have turned and may no longer be at its very best. However, the most northwestern points, like High Point, have mostly bare trees.

The best chance for peak color is to look to the coasts, all the way around – from the Palisades down to the southern tip in Cumberland and Cape May counties, and back up the east coast to Burlington Co.

The northeast coast (ie the Palisades) are either at peak or moving past – our sources are not matching on this area still. I saw photos with peak color last weekend but unsure how much of that lasted the rain, wind, and chilly temps this week. Possibly still worth a whirl – this area usually has color at this point in the season.

This weekend is forecast to be nice hiking temperatures (maybe reaching low 60s) and two days without rain… finally. Of course, now that the season is winding down. We can’t recall a fall where it rained so much on weekends. So try to get out there and get the remaining color while you can!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

7-Day Forecast: Color will continue to progress at the coasts but we’re looking at maybe another week and weekend with color opportunities.

Further out… New York: Harriman/Bear Mtn just past peak. Long Island near or at peak. Some peak color in areas of the Finger Lakes. Pennsylvania – Southeast region around Philly moved quickly to peak and then past but still has color – Wissahicken Valley or Ridley Creek are possibilities.

Even further out, south: MD – Eastern side: north is peak while south is near peak. Western half is past peak. VA – Most areas are past peak but Blue Ridge, Northern, and Central Virginia still have color. Great Smoky Mountains NP – Mid and lower elevations still have color – try Cades Cove, Cataloochee Valley, Gatlinburg, Cherokee. Higher have dropped their leaves.

10/31/23…

Currently… The best color is more into central and southern areas. The most northwestern area of High Point/Stokes area in Sussex is past peak with the remainder of the northwestern section not far behind – along the Kittatinny Ridge/Delaware River on through Mt. Tammany in Warren. Key northern hiking areas like Wawayanda, Ringwood, Norvin etc are also peak and moving past.

People often give up on the fall color once north hits peak… but there’s still plenty of color throughout New Jersey still. Note that “past peak” doesn’t mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that all the leaves have turned and may no longer be at its very best.

Look to Morris and Somerset counties and then south of that, especially towards the center of the state, for the best color but spreading fast to reach the coast. Expect leaf drop to ramp up with the cooler temperatures this week.

In case you are looking for a themed hike for today – we’ve got a list of Halloween Hikes in NJ.

If you are looking for a road trip… find high to peak color in Long Island, CT, RI, eastern MA. Peak and near peak across western and central Maryland, VA lots of near to peak color.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

New Jersey fall foliage current coverage map for October 30, 2023.

🍁Be sure to check out the foliage overlay on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated twice weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations.

10/30/23…

Currently… The best color is moving down the state, more into central and southern. The most northwestern edge from High Point in Sussex through Mt. Tammany in Warren is quickly moving past peak, with fading color and leaf drop. North Passaic is peak but will be moving past soon if not already.

This a good time to point out that “past peak” doesn’t mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that all the leaves have turned and may no longer be at its very best.

Look to Morris and Somerset counties and then south of that for the best color. Also expect leaves to be dropping quickly in some areas, especially with cooler temperature coming this week.

10/28/23 – Torne Mountain and Osio Rock [Passaic County]
Peak color with some muted rusts and browns and plenty of leaf drop. We started early but it was sooo warm – nearly November and we’re sweating up the hills.

Folaige on Torne Mountain hike.

View from Osio Rock. This is always a great hike – tons of viewpoints packed into less than 3 miles.

View from Osio Rock.
Bright yellow foliage on the red trail.

10/27/23 – Mt. Minsi [PA side of the Delaware Water Gap]
To view Jersey’s Mt. Tammany you need to hike up Mt. Minsi in Pennsylvania. Color was at peak but appeared more muted than in reality because it was so overcast.

That bare rock outcrop near the top is where hikers are when they hike up Mt. Tammany and we could see a few with our monocular.

Mt. Tammany seen from Mt. Minsi.

We always continue up the Appalachian Trail past the Mt. Minsi summit to another overlook. New Jersey is on left, Pennsylvania on the right:

We hiked a variation of our main route that also hits a small waterfall on Caledonia Creek before crossing Table Rock…

Caledonia Creek falls with bright yellow foliage above it.

…and skirting around the side of Lake Lenape.

Lake Lenape surrounded by fall foliage.

It was a wonderfully warm day for hike (t-shirts in late October!) and afterward we picked up tasty cheese danish and a half-size cherry pie at Village Farmer and Bakery just a few minutes from the trailhead. There’s a lot of goodies in there that jump into your hands so be careful.

10/26/23…

This weekend and into next week… Peak color has arrived across Sussex and Warren counties, while Hunterdon, northern Passaic, the pine barrens are near-peak or peak color (our foliage sources are not quite in agreement on these… but nice color either way!). Next to that diagonal is a band of near-peak across key hiking areas.

Moderate color is through the rest of Jersey save for the coasts. Our Foliage/Hike Finder map shows the area breakdown in detail. The Palisades in Bergen are either at peak or moderate color – our sources are not matching on this area either – but generally the Palisades peaks later the other areas.

So many choices right now and the forecast is looking fantastic to top it off – 70s! no rain! – so be sure to get out and treat those eyeballs to some fall color!!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

7-Day Forecast: High Point S.P. in the most northwest corner still has nice color but will be moving past soon with a decent amount of leaf drop. A week from now the Kittatinny Ridge/Delaware River border (Jersey’s northwest angle) will likely be past peak so do Tammany and anything on the ridge soon. Near NJ, peak color should hit Harriman/Bear Mtn.

Further out… New York: Gunks at peak. Harriman/Bear Mtn near-peak. Pennsylvania – Southern Poconos, Lehigh Gorge are at peak.

Even further out, north: NY: Finger Lakes/Watkins Glen, Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park at peak. Much of Catskills and the Adirondacks is past. PA – Laurel Highlands and Pine Creek Gorge, Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, is moving past. ME – Past peak. NH – Northernmost is past while southern areas range from peak to past. VT – Still likely peak color in the south.

Even further out, south: MD – Western to central nearing peak. VA – Varies by area of near or at peak, while higher elevations are past. Shenendoah Valley at peak. Great Smoky Mountains NP – Peak at 3000′; nice color on Clingmans Dome Rd, Newfound Gap Rd, and the Foothills, Gatlinburg, Cave Cove. Higher elevations past.

10/24/23…

Currently… The entire northwest of New Jersey is peak, from High Point down the Kittatinny Ridge along the Delaware River on past Mt. Tammany and Mt. Minsi (PA). Near peak color spreads from there across into key hiking areas such as Wawayanda, Terrace Pond, Bearfort Ridge, Norvin Green, Ramapo Mountains, Splitrock Reservoir.

Moderate color has spread across all of central and south with more color change in the center vs the coast. Next week Hunterdon, Somerset, and Mercer should see near peak color.

The most northwest areas – probably High Point and maybe even down to Mt. Tammany – might start moving past peak after this weekend, as per usual, so don’t wait to much (scroll a bit to 10/23 for our report from HP).

Plenty of choices to enjoy some color plus the forecast is sunny, dry, and WARM (70s!) all week and the weekend. Maybe take a day off work this week to frolic outside – you deserve it.

If you are looking for a road trip… there’s high to peak color found in NY’s Gunks, Catskills, and Finger Lakes, in much of PA (other than the north), as well as southern New England. Adirondacks in NY and the northern half of VT-NH-ME are past. South… peak color along the W. VA and VA border; Shenendoah looking good this week and weekend.

Potentials for at least moderate color (we make no guarantees!):

New Jersey fall foliage current coverage map for October 23, 2023.

10/23/23…

Currently… Overall Northwest New Jersey is at peak color… there’s green leaves still but there’s also leaf drop. For the northwesternmost at High Point see report below.

Riding north along Route 206… nice near peak color in and around Chester. Near peak around Cranberry Lake so hiking at Allamuchy could be a possibility, probably also Jenny Jump. Heading further north into Sussex County is peak but trees had thinned out from the rain/wind more.

Elsewhere – color is increasing fast with near peak color is moving down into central Jersey. You can find at least nice moderate color over a lot of New Jersey at this point.

Weather in Jersey this week – and into the weekend – is looking to be sunny, dry, and warm… be sure to get outside and treat your eyeballs to all the fall color!

10/23/23 – High Point Monument Loop via Steeny Kill Lake [Sussex County]
Plenty of color – some vibrant, some a little muted – rusty oranges etc. A sunny day helps a lot here. There’s green but leaf drop but we’d call this peak… i.e. don’t wait too long for this park.

We’d planned on getting up here before Friday’s rain but couldn’t make it happen. And the rain and wind caused a decent amount of leaf drop but that just means the trails are covered in a pretty carpet. And it was still WINDY today. Enough to make it a bit difficult to keep steady to photograph when up top at the monument.

We did the Monument Loop but starting from Steeny Kill Lake. There is usually a lot of nice fall color around the lake and on the hill with the monument above it. And that big orange tree has two benches by it.

Hiking trail near a lake with orange, yellow, and red fall foliage.

It’s lit better after noon so get your shots on the way back if you start in the morning like we do:

Monument on top of a hill with brightly colored leaves.

Then hike up to alongside Lake Marcia for some nice shots of the monument with water in front.

High Point Monument on a fall foliage covered hill with a lake in the foreground.

From up at the monument area there are views in every direction. Facing east into Jersey and also the sun makes for a contrasty and slightly washed out foliage in the morning.

View from High Point over New Jersey.

Looking over NJ into New York and Pennsylvania is facing northwest the foliage was lit better. To the right of the river is Port Jervis, NY and to the left is Matamoras, PA.

View over New Jersey into Port Jervis, New York from atop High Point.

Color on the trails varied – certainly nice bright color like the photo below but in many areas the canopy was thinned from leaf drop.

Bright yellow foliage along a hiking trail.

On the ride back we had to get cider donuts and a pumpkin spice latte in order to be completely clíche. Our usual spot isn’t open Mondays so we tried Riamede Farm (we often use Rt 206 to get to many hiking spots and Chester is a good stopping point). These donuts were good too, with a prominent apple flavor and plenty of cinnamon sugar.

10/20/23…

This weekend and into next week… There is color across all of New Jersey at this point though there is still the usual mix of changed with still green leaves in some areas. All this rain/wind has not been ideal so expect to see some leaf drop and maybe some muted tones.

The northwest corner has the most color change with near peak color from High Point/Stokes over through to the Bearfort Ridge/Ringwood area down though Allamuchy and into northern Hunterdon County.

Moderate color has dipped down well into central through to the south with more color change in the center vs the coast. Our Foliage/Hike Finder map shows this curve of moderate color.

The rain is looking to move out of Jersey somewhat early on Saturday so there might be two basically clear days this weekend. Aim to get out as much as you can!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

7-Day Forecast: That northwest region should move to peak color next week, probably sooner than later. Then the Kittatinny Ridge/Delaware River border might start to edge a little past peak. Moderate color continues to move down, and all of Hunterdon and Mercer should move to near peak. Near NJ, peak color should hit the Gunks (NY) and Jim Thorpe / Lehigh Gorge (PA).

Further out… New York: Lake George area is at peak with most of the rest of the Adirondacks past. Much of the Catskills is peak with a higher elevations moving past. Pennsylvania – Central and southern are near peak, while north is past. Lehigh Gorge is near peak.

Even further out, north: NY: Letchworth State Park and Watkins Glen are at peak. PA – Laurel Highlands (i.e. Ohiopyle S.P.) and Pine Creek Gorge, Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, is at peak. ME – High to peak color found south and Acadia/Bar Harbor but rain and wind has knocked leaves and muted color somewhat along the coast. NH – Northernmost is past, and while the White Mountains is technically past there is still good color. Central and southern ranges from near peak to peak. VT – Moving past, more color on the trees in the south.

Even further out, south: VA – Central and northern are moderate, while higher elevations are near or at peak. Great Smoky Mountains NP – Higher elevations got a little snow recently. Good color in mid-elevations: Newfound Gap, Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Bluff, and Chimney Tops. Spotty color under 2000′. Peak is predicted for this weekend and next week for Cade Cove and area; next 10-14 days should be good. Grandfather Mountain is peak.

10/17/23…

Currently… The entire northwest of New Jersey is near peak, from High Point down the Kittatinny Ridge along the Delaware River on past Mt. Tammany and Mt. Minsi (PA). Moderate color spreads from there across into key hiking areas such as Wawayanda, Terrace Pond, Bearfort Ridge, Norvin Green, Splitrock Reservoir.

So you’ve got a lot of choices this week to enjoy some color. That northwest section will probably edge on into peak later this week or this weekend.

If you are looking for a road trip… the Adirondacks in NY and northern VT-NH-ME are peak or moving past. NY’s Catskills is peak with higher elevations likely moving past soon while the Gunks (Sam’s Point, Minnewaska etc) has moderate color. In PA… Laurel Highlands is peaking, while near peak to peak color is in central Poconos. South… Peak color along the W. VA and VA border.

Potentials for at least moderate color (we make no guarantees!):

New Jersey fall foliage current coverage map for October 16, 2023.

10/16/23…

Currently… Color is spreading quickly… Northwest New Jersey is near peak color and may reach peak later this week or at the weekend. Moderate color is moving across northern and down into central, by the weekend or early next week moderate color may reach well into southern NJ. Enjoy at least low color everywhere else.

Sunday turned out to be a really nice day and the sun even popped in the morning so cloudy conditions didn’t mute the colors this week.

All this extra rain is not only annoying (and it’s like every weekend) but it’s knocking leaves off a little early too. However… waterfalls are flowing more than they often do in autumn so we’ve been incorporating them when choosing foliage hikes.

🍁Be sure to check out the foliage overlay on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated twice weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations.

10/15/23 – Schooley’s Mountain [Morris County]
A mix of low to moderate color, as expected. Yellow popping along the water, mostly green along the trails. Schooley’s Falls was as lovely as always.

Schooley's Falls with yellow and green leaves above it.

The view from the overlook along the BLUE was mostly low color (this is a slight zoom). There’s a little blush of color on the hill and a bit in the valley.

Viewpoint over fields and farms with a forest in the foreground.

George Lake had more color. This is only a few minutes from the parking lot and on the way to the BLUE trail.

George Lake ringed by fall foliage.

10/15/23 – Black River – Kay’s Cottage Ruins [Morris County]
After hiking Schooley’s we hiked stopped at the Cooper Mill to hike along the Black River to Kay’s Cottage Ruins. The always photogenic mill always makes for a nice foliage shot.

Cooper Mill with red foliage in front of the building.

Moderate color found along the Black River. Areas along water tend to change a little earlier in the season so it’s further along. But it’s open and also subject to wind and the associated leaf drop.

The Black River with colorful leaves on the trees along it.

Like Schooley’s, foliage along the trail is leaning green still with a little color change. Kay’s Cottage had a little bit more plus lots of pretty leaves covering the ground.

Kay's Cottage ruins with yellow and green foliage and many fallen leaves on the stone steps.

And the stream right behind Cooper Mill had little pops of color – this just screams “FALL!”.

Rocky stream with bright pink leaves.

Since we were nearby we ended up at Hacklebarney Cider Mill for donuts and a sneaky little pie made us buy it too, just like last time. Really gotta watch out for those.

10/13/23…

This weekend and into next week… There’s at least low color in all of New Jersey save for the southern tip (Parts of Cumberland / Cape May County.)

The northwest corner is nearing peak and moderate color continues to spread further, now across all of Sussex County, much of Warren, northern Passaic, and bits of Morris. Some of the pine barrens has reached moderate color as well, around Wharton S.F.

The season is progressing as usual, with a lot of color change likely coming later next week and into the weekend. However we never recommend waiting for “peak” to get out and enjoy.

Fall in New Jersey usually sees color mixed with green so there is plenty of color to enjoy throughout the season and across the state. And with the recent rainy days we’ve had, you never know when a storm will knock leaves off. Aim to get out as much as you can!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

7-Day Forecast: At the end of next week the northwest area, High Point/Stokes to probably to the Wawayanda area might reach peak, with moderate color sweeping across and down into central Jersey. Near NJ in NY, the Gunks could be near or at peak while in PA the Jim Thorpe / Lehigh Gorge area may see peak.

Further out… New York: Adirondack’s higher elevations moving past peak with areas still at peak. Lake George is near-peak. Much of the Catskills is peak with a higher elevations moving past, lower elevations range of low to moderate color. Letchworth State Park near peak. Pennsylvania – Northern Poconos reached peak and are fading, while central and southern are moderate to near peak. Laurel Highlands (i.e. Ohiopyle S.P.) nearing peak.

Even further out, north: ME – Northernmost is past, north at peak, Acadia at high color; remainder of the state is moderate to high color. NH – Peak color north – White Mountains and Monadnock regions, Kancamagus Highway, Franconia, and Crawford Notch. Remainder is moderate to near peak. VT – Peak moving towards south-central, north peak or moving past. Across New England is seeing some muted colors this season.

Even further out, south: VA – Moving towards peak. Blue Ridge is a mix of green, some color, and brown leaves due to stress. Great Smoky Mountains NP – Higher elevations starting to drop. Good color in mid-elevations: Newfound Gap, Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Bluff, and Chimney Tops.

10/10/23…

Currently… Northwest NJ has moderate color that will be moving quickly across the state this week. It’s possible the most northwestern point (High Point / Stokes) should be either near peak or at peak this coming weekend.

If you want to fit in a road trip to the Adirondacks in NY or northern VT-NH-ME do it very soon as that area is going to be moving past.

Our suggestions are for moderate color but you’ll find at least low color mixed with greens most places. Fall in New Jersey usually sees color mixed with green throughout the season since tree species turn at different times.

Potentials for  color (we make no guarantees!):

10/9/23…

Currently… Color continues its march down and across the state. Northwest New Jersey has moderate color and is spreading quickly. The most northwestern point (High Point / Stokes) may be near or at peak this coming weekend.

Hiking on Sunday finally felt like Fall after the dip in temperatures Saturday night and it was a great day to be on a trail – even with all the clouds.

10/8/23 – Catfish Fire Tower – Appalachian Trail [Warren County]
Low to close to moderate color change. Mostly cloudy/overcast conditions reduced the actual intensity of the colors in the below photos somewhat.

Catfish Fire Tower offers a 360° view over the Delaware Water Gap Nat’l Rec. Area and New Jersey into Pennsylvania. Looking south over the valley below and towards the Gap in the distance with nice color mixed with green:

View from a fire tower over orange and yellow fall foliage.

Looking west over a jumble of fall color, with Pennsylvania in the distance (these clouds weren’t as angry as they look in these pics!).

Large expanse of forest with multicolored leaves.

View south of the fire tower from the Appalachian Trail and a zoom into the valley below where the patchwork of color change is more pronounced.

Rocky outcrop with a white blaze overlooking a valley.
Close up of fall color sprinkled in with green trees in a valley.

Pops of color along a section of the Appalachian Trail that follows a wide woods road.

Bright orange foliage along the Appalachian Trail.

10/8/23 – Van Campens Glen [Warren County]
This short little hike is not far from the trailhead for Catfish Tower so we did this too (drive to Millbrook Village 2 min away and turn left on Old Mine Road). Low color change with yellow with pops of orange, with a decent amount of leaf drop along the trail.

Water falling over rock slabs into a wide shallow pool.
Cascade along the stream in Van Campens Glen.

Waterfall and cascades were flowing pretty good and the glen is pretty in any season.

Stream surrounded by green and yellow foliage.

10/8/23 – Hacklebarney / Schooleys Mtn / Black River area [Morris County]
This area was close to moderate color and worth a visit. We didn’t have time to hike here too but stopped for cider donuts at Hacklebarney Farms on the drive home. Just be mindful that the pies are sneaky and will jump into your hands so you buy them, too (the Kentucky bourbon praline pumpkin got us this time and it is as delicious as it sounds…)

10/6/23…

This weekend and into next week… Low color can be seen through much of New Jersey now except for the northeastern coast (i.e. the Palisades) and the southern tip of the state.

The most color change is, as usual, in the northwest region. Moderate color seen from High Point and Stokes in Sussex County southwest along the Kittatinny Ridge, following the Delaware River, through northern Warren County.

Temperatures are expected to dip from the warm days we just had, which should ramp up the color change. We still expect the color progression will be a normal this year but that can always change – so get out every chance you can.

Our suggestions are for moderate color but you’ll find at least low color mixed with greens most anywhere. High or peak color requires more of a road trip, suggestions also below.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… New York: Adirondacks region is at peak. The ADK Mtn Club notes the High Peaks might see snow Sat. and Sun. night so plan accordingly. Catskills near to peak, especially at higher elevations. Pennsylvania – Northern Poconos and the border with NY is at peak.

Even further out, north: ME – Northern at peak, Acadia at high color; rest of the state is moderate to high color. NH – North is high color approaching peak. VT – North higher elevations at peak; Green Mountains near peak, areas mostly green now will see peak in about a week.

Even further out, west/south: PA – Laurel Highlands (i.e. Ohiopyle S.P.) nearing peak. VA – More low color extending across the border of West Virginia and Virginia. Color on the Blue Ridge Parkway / Shenandoah Valley may be a bit muted this season due to drought-stressed trees.

🍁Be sure to check out the foliage overlay on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations.

10/3/23…

Currently… Color is continuing to spread from the northwest across northern New Jersey. We’re seeing it dip into central and even into parts of Ocean County and the pine barrens.

This week for the most color look towards the usual first-changing areas like High Point State Park and Stokes State Forest but most areas in the northwest should be showing at least of color. Also look to the pine barrens where some color is popping up as well.

Potentials for low color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out: New York’s Adirondacks are ramping up, as well as across northern New England.

7-Day Forecast: Next week all of New Jersey should be enjoying low color, with moderate color appearing along the northwest corner at High Point (along the Kittatinny Ridge / Delaware River, maybe not quite to Rt 80/ Mt Tammany). This coming weekend should see great color in New York’s Adirondacks and across northern VT / NH / ME.

New Jersey fall foliage report map for October 2, 2023.

10/2/23…

Currently… Low color is appearing across the northwest tip of New Jersey, spreading in it’s usual diagonal line – from High Point State Park to Wawayanda, across. Then down following the Kittatinny Ridge through Jenny Jump S.F. We even spotted color as far over as Chester on Rt 206 and a bit on Rt 287 heading back south through Morristown.

This is mainly yellow tones with a lot of green, interspersed with a few brownish or muted hues appearing on some trees along roads. Color was popping up while driving through western Ocean County/pine barrens as well (9/30/23). Pakim Pond or Whitesbog may be a potential.

It seems there is a little more color at this point compared to recent years. We still expect the color timing will be normal though warm weather this week could tap the breaks on the change a bit (need sunny days + cool nights).

10/1/23 – Buttermilk Falls and Silver Spray Falls – Del. Water Gap [Sussex County]
Figured we’d also check on some waterfalls too after allllllllll that rain. We found gushing falls, yellow foliage glowing in the sun, with perfect hiking weather to top it off.

Delaware Water Gap and Stokes State Forest overall is at low color, with a nice yellow hue appearing in most places. We stopped first at Buttermilk just for photos and not a hike.

Buttermilk Falls with yellow foliage at the top.

One of the cool things about Buttermilk is you can just walk a few steps from the parking lot and there she is. No hiking required (but it’s a great hike!).

Then we hiked out to Silver Spray, where the rock hop over the stream took a little thought to choose where to cross, due to the water flow.

Silver Spray Falls with yellow foliage.

10/1/23 – Stony Brook Falls and Stony Lake Loop – Stokes S.F. [Sussex County]
Headed over to Stokes and did a combo of our two guides on the site – hitting both falls, circling Stony Lake, plus the Silver Mine Trail.

Angled falls on Stony Brook.
Stepping Stones falls on Stony Brook.

Just before a bridge nearing Stony Lake we had our 2nd bobcat spotting ever in NJ. It was too brief to get a photo, but we got some great footage last year from High Point S.P. Check out our bobcat video if you haven’t seen it.

Green, yellow, and orange foliage reflecting in Stony Lake.

9/29/23…

This weekend and into next week… Low color can be found across the northwest tip of New Jersey – High Point State Park to Wawayanda, including Stairway to Heaven.

The low color continues from High Point in Sussex County southwest along the Kittatinny Ridge, following the Delaware River, through Warren County and Jenny Jump S.F..  This low color might also have spread more east from that, into key hiking areas such as Bearfort Ridge, Norvin Green, etc.

There’s also low color popping up in the pine barrens… possibly try Wharton S.F and Tom’s Pond or Batsto Lake.

But overall we’re still just at the start of the season. And after the recent deluge of rain you may want to work in a waterfall hike.

And remember The Rule: the more you hike, the more cider donuts you can eat.

Further out… New York: Higher elevations of New York’s Adirondack starting to see near peak conditions, with mid-point elsewhere. Higher elevations of the Catskills are sporting color too. Pennsylvania: Northern Poconos is near peak, with a projected peak of Columbus Day Weekend (Pinchot SF, Prompton SP).

Even further out:  Good color across northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Low color extends down into the border of West Virginia and Virginia.

🍁Be sure to check out the foliage overlay on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Foliage map data provided by Explore Fall.

Foliage + Hike Finder Map.

9/26/23…

Overall, we’re expecting a pretty normal foliage season this year with potential for nice color here in New Jersey and across the Northeast. The color should see the usual progression from the northwest corner and northern part of NJ in early October and then cascade down until ending late October / early November.

We’re heading into the 2023 fall foliage season with plenty of rain, unlike last year’s prolonged drought which can stress leaves. Too much rain isn’t ideal either but we’ll see how that plays out.

While temps in at the start of September were higher than normal, they’ve now dropped down to more “fall like” recently. To us, it feels like the first time in possibly years that the last 2 weeks of September actually felt like fall instead of extended summer.

Right now there’s much not color changing here in NJ, other than maybe a little bit up showing up around maybe Bearfort Ridge or Terrace Pond…. but the color should ramp up real soon.

While waiting for the colors to arrive, you might want to take advantage of the recent rain (like nonstop for days… sigh) and pop out for a waterfall hike.

Roadtrip it for more color... look to the the higher elevations of New York’s Catskills and Adirondacks (Heart Lake / Lake Placid areas are nearing moderate color) for the areas closest to NJ with color. Further out, look to northern VT / NH and northeast Maine.

New Jersey fall foliage report map for September 25, 2023.

NJ Fall Foliage 2022

11/11/22… Final Report

This weekend and into next week… Color is still hanging on in areas but the trees are quickly losing their leaves, and it’s getting harder to suggest hikes with a good amount of color.

The best chance for any color is to look towards the eastern and southern coasts but expect more leaves on the ground than on the trees.

Further out… New York: western Long Island and NYC‘s Central Park are at peak. Delaware, eastern Maryland, and eastern Virginia ranges from near to peak color.

For our fellow year-round hikers – or anyone looking to be – head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

Don’t miss our Best Gifts for Hikers list to take care of the outdoorsy people on your holiday list …or to treat yourself!

11/8/22…

The best chance for any color is to look towards the eastern and southern coasts but expect to find lots of leaf drop, as per usual at this point in the season.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

🍁Be sure to check out the map below overlaid on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 11/7/22.

11/7/22…

Currently… The best chance for color is to look to the eastern side of the state but expect to find a lot of leaf drop, as per usual at this point in the season.

It was beautiful 70 degree weekend with one more warm one today – if you can get out, do so!!

11/5/22 – Watchung Reservation [Union County]
I’d determined Watchung would be one of the better options this weekend, and it is often an early November choice.

Bright yellow foliage at Watchung Reservation.
Trail markers on tree near yellow foliage.

The color was peak but a lot of leaf drop and so this area is moving past. Interestingly, the park road on the way to the trailhead had really nice peak color with most leaves on the trees. But once on the trail is was very mixed between color and drop:

Path next to a stream with foliage and bare trees.

11/6/22 – D&R Canal – Rocky Hill – Colonial Park [Somerset County]
It was so warm we opted to get one more bike ride in for the year even though we expected the D&R to be past peak. Still plenty of nice pops of color lining a pretty leaf-covered trail.

Tree covered towpath with a canal on the left side.

Rain was forecast coming from the west and even with the advantage of the time “falling back” for an earlier start we didn’t think we’d miss the rain, so decided on a last minute pivot.

We started much more east, to the main canal instead of the feeder canal from Bulls Island towards Frenchtown (really wanted to sit at a cafe with an iced coffee and pastry along the trail but, alas, it was not to be.)

11/4/22…

This weekend and into next week… The best chance for peak color is to look to the eastern side of the state – from about Union County on down, along the coast, and then round the southern tip up to Cumberland County (use our Hike Finder as a map).

Just expect to find color mixed with trees with a lot of leaf drop, as per usual at this point in the season.

North and west has moved “past peak” – but this doesn’t necessarily mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that it’s no longer at its very best.

This weekend may reach in the 70s!!! – so anywhere outside will be a good choice!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey… Southeastern Pennsylvania has color in the counties closest to the border but the color is moving past.

11/1/22…

This week peak color continues to spread across New Jersey with the color focus on central and southern, moving toward the coast. Northwest and northern New Jersey are moving past peak color.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

🍁Be sure to check out the map below overlaid on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 10/31/22.

10/31/22…

Currently… Most of New Jersey is a mix of peak and near-peak with the color focus central and southern. The most northwestern corner has moved past peak.

This past weekend we found peak color in west central NJ as well as southeastern Pennsylvania.

10/31/22 – Washington Crossing [Mercer County]
Peak color with some green leaves. Color is starting to move past peak, with a good amount of leaf drop. Still plenty of color around the park though.

Yellow and rusty orange leaves next to a still green tree.
Large tree that has green and rusty orange leaves.
Yellow and rusty orange leaves with a stone building in the background.

10/30/22 – Valley Forge National Historical Park [Pennsylvania]
Peak color with a bit of leaf drop at and around Valley Forge NHP. Southeastern P.A. might be a good option this week too… such as Wissahickon Gorge or French Creek S.P.

Fall foliage around a stone house used by Washington at Valley Forge.

10/28/22…

This weekend and into next week… Most of New Jersey is a mix of peak and near-peak. The color focus is moving towards central and southern. The most northwestern corner has moved past peak.

Plenty of options across New Jersey this weekend and next week – be sure to get out there!

Potentials for good color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey…  New York: Harriman/Bear Mountain and the Hudson Highlands area is at peak color. Pennsylvania’s Poconos region is past.

10/25/22…

This week there is peak color along the northwest corner of NJ while the most northwestern part is past peak (High Point / Stokes and Sussex County in general; there’s color but leaves are droppin’).

A band of near-peak color continues from around Norvin Green southwest on through Schooley’s Mtn/Allamuchy to Musconetcong Gorge, moving quickly this week towards peak.

The rest of the state is seeing a mix of moderate to near-peak color so anywhere in New Jersey has at least some color – get out and enjoy!!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!)

🍁Be sure to check out the map below overlaid on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 10/17/22

10/24/22…

Currently… This week should see peak color northwest (Mt. Tammany etc) and north central (Bearfort Ridge/Surprise Lake / Terrace Pond etc). The rest of the state should be seeing near peak conditions. Still some green trees out there too.

However, the most northwestern corner (basically Sussex County) is past peak. There is still color but it’s getting more muted with leaf drop.

This past weekend we found nice color around Allamuchy and the Schooleys Mtn / Black River / Hacklebarney area still has good color.

10/21/22 – Allamuchy Pond [Warren County]
Brilliant fall color reflecting in the pond. This area was pretty close to peak, if not already peak. If heading out this week, you might also try Allamuchy – Deer Park in the area.

Bright yellow foliage reflecting in water.

Little bit of green as well as some tree canopies starting to thin out.

Orange and rust colored foliage reflecting in blue water.

10/21/22 – Swartswood State Park [Sussex County]
We did the Grist Mill trail as well as a loop in the main park. There was color but also trees were starting to thin out and a lot of leaves were on the ground.

Grist mill at Swartswood lake.
Bright yellow and orange foliage relfecting in a lake.

The color was further along here than it should have been, and more like past peak instead of peak – possibly due to the unseasonable cold snap a few days before.

Stream with yellow foliage.

Foliage around Swartswood Lake was a mix of muted tones with some green.

Swartswood lake foliage.

10/21/22…

This weekend and into next week… The next two weeks should be prime leaf peeping throughout the state. While some spots in Jersey can see color into November you can’t count on it… so don’t wait and miss out.

Anywhere in Jersey will have at least near-peak color, with the northwestern part of the state rockin’ peak color. Lots of options this weekend – be sure to get out there!

Potentials for good color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey…  Pennsylvania’s central and southern Poconos are at peak; northern region is past. New York: Harriman/Bear Mountain area is at moderate color.

Even further out… New York’s New Paltz/Gunks area (Lemon Squeeze, Sam’s Point etc) is at peak while Adirondacks/Catskills is mainly past peak. Vermont: Lower elevations have peak color while the rest is past.

New Hampshire: Peak across the southern half of the state while north and the White Mountains are past. Maine: Southern coast is peak while the rest is past.

Shenandoah NP: Moderate color moving near peak, while higher elevations like Big Meadows is moving past. Great Smoky Mountains NP: Peak color found at elevations under 2000′ – Cades Cove, Cataloochee Valley, Gatlinburg. Higher elevations are past.

10/18/22…

Color continues to spread down the state as usual, so far (see map below). High/near-peak color is in the northwest corner from High Point State Park to Wawayanda, including Stairway to Heaven. High Point State Park in the most northwestern corner should be hitting peak soon, with few spots moving past.

The high/near-peak color continues from High Point southwest along the Kittatinny Ridge, following the Delaware River, through to around Mt. Tammany and Mt. Minsi.

Moderate color is in a band from around Bearfort Ridge/ Norvin down through Schooley’s Mtn, Allamuchy, Jenny Jump, and then thru Musconetcong Gorge.

Southern and coastal are low color. All of this will increase this week and into the weekend.

While the most color is in the northern part of the state right now, anywhere in New Jersey has at least some color – get out and enjoy!!

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

🍁Be sure to check out the map below overlaid on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 10/17/22.

10/17/22…

Currently… This past weekend we found really nice color at Monksville Reservoir, Wawayanda, and Hacklebarney.

Beautiful color found along roads – curvy Clinton Road in West Milford was really popping as were the country roads around Hacklebarney in Chester.

Despite the drought, we’re seeing pretty bright colors overall though a few areas have more muted tones.

This week the northern part of the state should see the usual mix we get at this point – near peak color against green trees. High Point State Park in the most northwestern corner should be hitting peak with few spots moving past.

10/15/22 – Monksville Reservoir [Passaic County]
A great place to kayak that is also a nice spot for foliage photos. We even had a pair of swans keep posing for us.

Yellow and orange colored hills lit by sunlight beyond a lake.

Fog often lingers over Monksville in the early morning and looks cool hanging over the tree stumps.

10/15/22 – Wawayanda S.P. [Sussex County]
A combo of near peak and green foliage reflecting in Wawayanda Lake.

Fall leaves reflecting in Wawayanda Lake.
Fall color surrounding a lily pad filled lake.

Trails were mainly green with a decent amount of leaf drop but there were some popping color along trails too.

Bright yellow foliage towering over a trail.

Pretty foliage along Twin Bridges and Double Pond where bridges cross the wet areas. Note that if you’re heading out there, Nature Jim’s Bridge on RED DOT was flooded and you’d get wet feet in order to cross it; maybe stick to Twin Bridges.

Yellow, orange, and red colored leaves on trees in a swampy area.

10/16/22 – Hacklebarney S.P. [Morris County]
Moderate to near peak color all along the Black River on the Riverside Trail. Trails leading to the river had less color change but also leaves on the ground.

Yellow leaves on the trees lining a river.

The next few weeks should be nice here. Excellent color along backroads heading to the park too.

Yellow and green leaves hanging over a river.

10/14/22…

This weekend and into next week… The northwest corner is looking at near peak conditions – anywhere across High Point State Park, Stokes State Forest, and Wawayanda S.F. This is where the best color can be found right now in NJ.

Nearby Passaic County, which has a lot of key hiking spots, may be running slightly behind (possibly due to that area experiencing a bit more intense drought). There is color but perhaps not as far along as it might be by now (such as…. Bearfort Ridge/Surprise Lake, Ringwood S.P. / Long Pond Ironworks, Norvin Green, Ramapo Mtns etc).

Moderate color can be found throughout most of the rest of the northern half of NJ, save for the northeast corner which is still low. The entire southern half is seeing low color – so no matter where you are in Jersey this weekend, there’s some color for you!

Potentials for good color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey…  Pennsylvania’s Poconos northern region is peak to moving past, while central and southern is at moderate to near peak color. NY’s Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mountain area is at moderate color.

Even further out… New York: Adirondacks is at peak color with past-peak in the highest elevations. Catskills are at peak.

Vermont: Most of the state is near peak with higher elevations at peak and the highest moving past. New Hampshire: Peak across the entire state except for the southeast corner. Some northern areas past peak. Maine: Central is peak, southern/coast/Acadia NP is high color while northern is past peak.

Shenendoah NP – moderate color moving into high. Great Smoky Mountains NP – Peak color found at elevations over 3000′; lower expected to peak next week.

10/11/22…

Color seems to be progressing normally so far. Moderate color is in the northwest corner from High Point State Park to Wawayanda, including Stairway to Heaven, to Bearfort Ridge and beyond.

The moderate color continues from High Point southwest along the Kittatinny Ridge, following the Delaware River, through to around Sunfish Pond and Raccoon Ridge.

Low color moves from there through central into south Jersey. Coastal and southern areas are low to little change. All of this will increase this week and into the weekend.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

🍁Be sure to check out the map below overlaid on our interactive Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 10/10/22.

10/10/22…

Currently… Color can be found all across the northern third of the state. This past weekend we found nice color mixed with green all through Sussex County and Morris County.

The most color change can be found on trails or along the roads. Looking at hillsides or from an overlook the trees are still mostly green (low color change).

This will be ramping up fast this week towards moderate or maybe even near peak.

10/9/22 – Paulinskill Valley Trail [Sussex County]
Lots of bright color lining the trail, mixed with greens and some leaf drop, with pops of reds and oranges near water.

Fall color along a rail trail near a wooden marker with "JC 68".

We bike this but it’s great for easy walking. Bonus: Angry Erik Brewery can be accessed from the trail.

Yellow foliage hanging over a stream.

On the way back we drove through the Black River / Hacklebarney / Chester area where there was a decent amount of foliage popping up all along the drive (plus cider and donuts at the Hacklebarney Cider Mill).

10/8/22 – Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond, Stokes drive, Sunrise Mountain overlook.
Crater Lake had lots of reds and rusty oranges around it. It was more overcast in the morning that we’d hoped for which dulls the photos some, but it was still nice.

Bright fall foliage around a lake.
Red, orange, rust, and yellow colored foliage seen at the edge of a lake.

Low color overall, mainly yellows mixed with green on the trails around Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond.

Yellow and green foliage on tall trees lining a flat trail.

Plenty of color driving to Crater Lake, then back along Old Mine Road, with a quick stop at Tillman Ravine, before heading on to Sunrise Mountain.

Paved road with bright yellow foliage on either side.
Large bright yellow tree in Tillman Ravine.

Decent amount of color on the drive up to Sunrise Mountain but the valleys and hills from the overlooks are still mostly green.

View from Sunrise Mountain of valleys below.
Blue skies and fluffy clouds over the valley below Sunrise Mountain.

10/7/22…

Low color can be found in about the northern third of New Jersey, with the most chance of color from the northwest corner in Sussex County thru Wawayanda. It’s still early in the season but expect more pops of color appearing this weekend.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey…  Pennsylvania’s northern Poconos is at 60-90% change and is expected to peak this weekend into next week, while central and southern is only at 15-25%. NY’s Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mountain area is at low color.

Even further out… New York: Adirondacks/Lake Placid is at peak color. Upper Catskills near peak. Maine: Northern and western is at peak, with moderate to high color elsewhere. New Hampshire – high color in the northern tip.

Vermont: whole state is seeing color with pockets of peak mixed in. The northeast and the higher elevations of the Green Mountains have the most color. Stowe/Smuggler’s Notch area is seeing high and peak conditions.

10/4/22…

🍁NEW for 2022 – Foliage Map overlay on our Hike Finder!!🍁 Now choose hikes with the best chance of fall color, updated weekly. Zoom out for east coast foliage road trip locations.

Low color can be found in about the northern third of New Jersey. Keep in mind this season could be more of a mixed bag than usual due to drought, and locations might turn earlier than usual or have a shorter period of color.

If you’d like to really strategize, aim for hikes based on drought over the last few months… for areas with more normal rainfall try Hunterdon and southern Warren counties and maybe hike less in Middlesex, most of Monmouth, and the southern tip from Cape May. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 10/3/22.

10/1/22…

Low color can be found across the northwest tip of New Jersey – High Point State Park to Wawayanda, including Stairway to Heaven, to Bearfort Ridge.

The low color continues from High Point southwest along the Kittatinny Ridge, following the Delaware River, through to about Van Campens Glen.

Further out; areas adjacent to New Jersey… All of New York is at least at low color. Northern Poconos in PA is at 40-60% change and may peak this weekend into next week, while central and southern is only at 10-15%.

Even further out: Higher elevations of New York’s Adirondack and Catskill regions are seeing color at the mid-point of change. Franconia Notch in New Hampshire and Northern Maine are at high color. Map data provided by The Foliage Report.

NJ Foliage Report map for 9/26/22.

9/21/22…

This weekend and into next week… It’s still early in the season but there’s a little bit of change happening in the northern tip of the state from High Point State Park to Wawayanda, including Stairway to Heaven.

Some nice hiking temps might be on tap for this weekend even if the leaves haven’t changed much. And don’t forget the rule: the more you hike, the more cider donuts you can eat.

Further out… Color is just starting in areas that are adjacent to NJ. New York has low color across the state and northern Poconos in PA is at 10-15% change.

Even further out: Low to moderate color is appearing in Northern section of New Hampshire and Green Mountains region of Vermont, and New York’s Adirondacks. Map data 9/19/22, provided by The Foliage Report.

Northeast foliage report map.

9/1/22…

You may have noticed leaves turning colors early or even some leaf drop, like we did while hiking at High Point State Park and kayaking Splitrock Reservoir in mid-August.

Tree turning yellow with the High Point monument on a hill in the background.

Any lack of water can stress trees and cause some leaves to turn early and drop off in order to conserve water and protect themselves. It doesn’t mean it will negatively affect the overall fall foliage display as many people assume.

While most of New Jersey has varying drought conditions, some forecasters are still expecting good color across the mid-Atlantic. It may start earlier and be shorter than normal if we don’t get some showers, but lack of water can even sometimes intensify the colors.

Leaves turning yellow early along the Monument Trail.

Forecasters expect northern New England to have a normal season, save for an area around Boston where the drought is severe. The traditional foliage destinations of the Catskills, Adirondacks, northern Vermont and New Hampshire, and Maine should be on track.

Also consider the “backyard effect”, a term used by the ski industry. Just as people don’t think to go skiing when there is no snow in their yards, realize that crispy brown leaves around your neighborhood doesn’t reflect what a mature forest in the mountains will look like!

Check back here for more as the season progresses.

NJ Fall Foliage 2021

11/19/21… Final Report

This weekend and into next week… Color is still hanging on in areas but the trees are quickly losing their leaves, and it’s getting harder to suggest hikes with a good amount of color.

Best color chance is on the eastern side of the state, through Monmouth and Ocean counties, along the coast, and then round the southern tip up to Cumberland County (use our Hike Finder as a map).

Further out… New York: Long Island and NYC are at peak. Hudson Highlands/Bear Mountain/Harriman is past but still has some color. Delaware, Eastern Maryland, and Eastern Virginia ranges from near to peak color.

For our fellow year-round hikers – or anyone looking to be – head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

Don’t miss our Gifts for Hikers to take care of the outdoorsy people on your holiday list …or to treat yourself!

11/15/21…

Currently… Expect to find pops of color mixed with trees that are totally without leaves. Rain and wind on Friday/Saturday didn’t help things but colorful leaves are still lingering. Color is lingering longer than usual – take advantage this week if you can (Thursday might be in the 60s).

The best chance for the most color is still to look to the eastern side of the state – from the southern Palisades along the Hudson River in the northeastern corner, down through Middlesex into Monmouth and Ocean counties, along the coast, and then round the southern tip up to Cumberland County (use our Hike Finder as a map).

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

11/13/21 Palisades – State Line Lookout to Peanut Leap Cascade
Nice color on the dramatic cliff sides and on trails along the shore, but up top the Long Path had a decent amount of leaf drop.

Colorful foliage against tall cliffs
Trees with half their leaves still, along a trail

Colorful foliage found leading down and around Peanut Leap Cascade.

Fall foliage around a stream in a ravine
Bright orange yellow leaves on a large tree

Peanut Leap Cascade even had a nice flow from the recent rains.

Waterfall tumbling over tall rocks

Of note, the northern section of the Palisades had much more leaf drop that just south. Areas roughly from Tenafly Nature Center/Green Brook Nature and south to Fort Lee had much more color left on the trees. Also of note, these photos are from Saturday morning just before strong wind/rain moved through this area.

The cliffs of the Palisades seen from Ross Dock near Fort Lee.

Colorful trees in front of tall cliff faces

11/12/21…

This weekend and into next week… There is still more color out there than normal in this unusual foliage season – we can’t recall a time when the color lasted this long in so many places. But today’s rain and wind will knock some of that pretty color onto the ground (and make waterfalls flow!).

For the best chance at grabbing some color, look to the eastern side of the state – from the Palisades along the Hudson River in the very northeastern corner down, through Middlesex into Monmouth and Ocean counties, along the coast, and then round the southern tip up to Cumberland County (use our Hike Finder as a map).

The rest of New Jersey is probably technically “past peak” – but this doesn’t mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that it’s no longer at its very best.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… New York: Hudson Highlands and Bear Mountain/Harriman area is at peak – try Breakneck Ridge, Storm King, West Mountain & Doodletown, Pine Meadows, or Sterling Forest – Bare Rock. Long Island ranges from near to peak.

Pennsylvania: Southeastern PA is at peak: Ralph Stover/Tohickon Valley; Wissahickon Gorge, Bowmans Tower, Ridley Creek, perhaps French Creek S.P.

Even Further out… Eastern Maryland and Delaware ranges from past peak down to peak (north to south). All of Shenandoah N.P. is at peak color, with better color at lower elevations.

11/11/21 – D&R Canal
Mix of bright beautiful foliage with green and leaf drop.

11/8/21…

Currently… There’s still color out there, much more than usual at this point, along with fading/browning and leaf drop. Take advantage of the sunny days and relatively comfortable temps this week to get out on a trail if you can.

The most, or brightest, color should be found along the Palisades (northeast part of NJ along the Hudson River) and areas south of Rt. 78. The northernmost part of the state still has color too, but more leaves have dropped. But realistically you can hit nearly anywhere in the state and get color still.

This season has been very unusual. It was slow to start, with subtle colors, and now trees are hanging onto their leaves with color popping well into November. New Jersey should get at least another week or two of lingering color.

Even the typical Jersey mix of color/green/drop at the same time seems more pronounced this year.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

11/7/21 Cheesequake State Park – Middlesex County
Plenty of bright popping color tempered with fading subtle color and leaf drop. Peak color, with areas moving past.

Bright orange and yellow foliage reflected in a lake
Trail with bright yellow foliage
Close up of pink and yellow leaves

11/5/21 Palisades in NJ + NY, CT, MA
Based on a road trip that we needed to do… Palisades cliffs seeing peak color, some muted tones; trails popping yellow. From the NJ-NY border to Harriman/Bear Mountain peak color with a little stubborn green. CT and southern MA peak color with areas moving past.

11/5/21…

This weekend and into next week… There are more leaves are on the trees than normally at this time of year. Just expect leaf drop and fading color mixed in with it – especially with the chillier overnight temps and dwindling daylight hours.

Northern third of the state ranges from peak to past peak, with the most northwestern section past peak (High Point, Wallkill Valley). 

Central should be seeing peak colors. Southern should be near peak except areas around Wharton, Brendan Bryne, Franklin Parker that are likely moving past.

Keep in mind that “past peak” doesn’t mean totally bare trees or faded color, just that it’s no longer at its very best.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… New York: Hudson Highlands and Bear Mountain/Harriman area is at peak – try West Mountain & Doodletown, Pine Meadows, or Sterling Forest – Bare Rock. Long Island ranges from near to peak. Hudson Valley is at peak; Labyrinth and the Lemon Squeeze, Bonticou Crag, Gertrude’s Nose could still be options. 

Pennsylvania: Southeastern PA is at peak: Ralph Stover/Tohickon Valley; Wissahickon Gorge, Bowmans Tower. Bit further out from Jersey: Hawk Mountain, Pinnacle and the Pulpit, French Creek S.P. are options. The rest of PA has lingering color with leaf drop.

Even Further out… From Connecticut across southeastern Massachusetts to Boston ranges from peak to high color, with moderate along the coast. New York: The Finger Lakes and Niagara Falls are at peak. 

Central Maryland is at peak with the eastern section ranging from past to just changing (southernmost).
All of Shenandoah N.P. is at peak color. Great Smoky Mountains is seeing peak color above 2500’ with good color elsewhere.

11/1/21…

Currently… The rain and wind on Friday didn’t knock that many leaves off – there is still a lot of color out there. This season has been slow and there is time to enjoy the fall color.

In most areas of NJ expect a wide mix of near or peak color, green, and bare trees. There is more color our there than normally at the beginning of November.

Peak color continues across the north and northwestern part of New Jersey (Southern Sussex, Morris, Warren, Hunterdon…). North of Rt 80 generally is seeing more leaf drop but there is still color on the trees.

We found great peak color still in Stokes S.F. and Delaware Water Gap NRA. Beautiful peak foliage still in the Chester area in Morris County, but with more leaf drop this weekend over last.

Found more color than expected along the Turnpike heading south from around exit 8 and then down Rt 55 in southern NJ (high to near peak).

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

10/31/21 Van Campens Glen – Warren County
Beautiful vibrant yellows along the trail. We did multiple short hikes in a bunch of places. While some of these spots also sport a lot of evergreen hemlocks, we were also looking to take advantage of all the extra water flow from recent heavy rains in addition to searching out fall color.

Bright yellow tree by a stream
Water flowing next to bright yellow tree

10/31/21 Buttermilk Falls – Sussex County
Nice bright yellows popping out from the evergreen. The falls themselves only have a little color around them due to the rock face and rhododendron etc but the flow was still going good.

Sunlit yellow foliage next water cascading over rocks
Buttermilk falls

10/31/21 Tillman Ravine – Sussex County
Yellows popping in the ravine and the water cascades were kicking.

Stream in a ravine
Water cascading over rocks

10/31/21 Allamuchy Pond – Warren County
Near peak with subtle rusty reds and oranges and some bare trees along the shore. The overcast conditions dulled the colors.

Green yellow and rusty orange foliage around a lake
Red, orange, and yellow foliage against a dark cloudy sky

10/31/21 White Lake – Warren County
This and most of the surrounding area was past peak and the colors were muted around the lake.

Blue lake seen beyond yellow and green foliage

10/29/21…

This weekend and into next week… Peak color can be found across the north and northwestern part of New Jersey (Southern Sussex, Morris, Warren, Hunterdon…), with the very most northern bit of the state moving past peak (…which doesn’t mean bare trees, just that it’s no longer at it’s very best).

Peak color can also be found in amongst the pine of the Pinelands (Wharton, Brendan Bryne, Franklin Parker). Northeast, most of central and south, and the coast varies between near peak and moderate color.

Today’s rain/wind will likely impact the amount of leaves on the trees… so expect to see a mix of color, lingering green, bare trees, and colorful leaves on the trail as well.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… New York: The Finger Lakes should be peaking this weekend. The Adirondacks are mostly past peak with some peak color around Lake George. Catskills are mostly past except around Ulster County which is peak. 

Hudson Valley is at peak; Labyrinth and the Lemon Squeeze, Bonticou Crag, Gertrude’s Nose could be options. Hudson Highlands is near peak with Bear Mountain area ranging from midpoint to near peak. Long Island is near peak.

Pennsylvania: Southern Poconos are at peak, Lehigh Gorge/Jim Thorpe area, Hawk Mountain, Pinnacle and the Pulpit are options. Much of PA bordering NJ is at peak – try Mt. Minsi, Ralph Stover/Tohickon Valley. Northern Poconos are past peak.

Even Further out… Southern New Hampshire’s Merrimack Valley and Seacoast region is at peak with the rest of the state past. Western Maryland is at peak, and the portion of MD closest to New Jersey is near peak; possibly Elk Neck State Park.

Virginia is starting to see peak color, with higher elevations of Shenandoah N.P. at peak but green still along the lower points. Great Smoky Mountains is seeing color at 3000′ with highest areas like Mt. Leconte receiving frost and losing leaves. Lower areas like Cades Cove is at moderate color.

10/25/21…

Currently… A little dip in nighttime temperatures caused the foliage to turn more colorful with oranges and deep reds showing up, and near peak or peak color appearing in a lot of places (still mostly the northern third of the state).

When driving to trails in the last few days we saw really nice near peak and peak color around Allamuchy State Forest, Hacklebarney, Schooley’s Mountain, Black River. Also great color in Norvin Green, so also look to Ramapo Mountains, Bearfort Ridge, Long Pond.

Keep in mind that Tuesday’s rain will likely impact the amount of leaves on the trees.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

10/25/21 Norvin Green – Lake Sonoma – Passaic County
Gorgeous peak color through the trails and around the lake. The intensity of the color was dampened by the overcast conditions but that just made it feel more like fall. We’d planned on hiking Norvin’s Wyanokie High Point but when fog enveloped us on the drive up we switched to hiking to a lake instead of a likely socked in overlook.

Lake surrounded by colorful trees
Colorful foliage reflected in a lake
Rocky stream surrounded by yellow green leaves

10/24/21 Allamuchy Mountain – Deer Park – Warren County
Near peak to peak color found on the trail and around the pond. Forecast called for morning sun but that disappeared earlier than anticipated so we ended up with cloudy conditions that makes the color look more subtle than it is. There was a particularly striking orange tree reflecting into the lake.

Lake with bright foliage in the foreground
Tree with bright orange fall foliage reflected in a lake
Yellow green leaves on a trail

10/22/21…

This weekend and into next week… Peak color is happening in the northwest corner of the state (Sussex County). The rest of the northern third of NJ varies between nearing peak and moderate color.

Most of central and all of southern/coastal NJ is seeing color change from low to moderate.

Warm temperatures in October have muted the color intensity and slowed the progression of change – normally we’d be further along by now. 

There is color across the state so don’t wait for perfect “peak” conditions to get out and enjoy! Jersey usually has a mix of color, green, and leaf drop all in one area as the color progresses in stages. Getting into the forest on a trail may yield more color right now than looking at hillsides.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… New York: The Adirondack and Catskill regions are a mix of peak and past peak. Generally river areas are near, valleys are peak, and higher elevations are past.

Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands ranges from low to moderate. Bear Mountain area is moderate color.

Pennsylvania: Central (portion that borders New Jersey, from Rt 80 north) and Southern are at peak; Northern is past peak. Promised Land, Lehigh Gorge/Jim Thorpe area, Tobyanna, Promised Land, Cliff Park are options for good color.

Even Further out… Coastal Maine is seeing peak with the rest past. Most of New Hampshire is at peak with the rest at high color. Most of Vermont is moving past peak. Great Smoky Mountains has nice color above 3,500’, green in lower elevations and on the TN side, and is running about 5 days behind overall.

10/19/21 – Stairway to Heaven [Sussex County, NJ]
Moderate color change overall, with warm yellow tones on the trail. Bursts of color seen below Pinwheel Vista but still a lot of green.

View from Pinwheel Vista
Farm and foliage in a valley
Foliage covered hills seen from a rocky outcrop

10/18/21…

Currently… The color change is running behind normal at least a few days – if not 5 or so. Cooler evening temps since Saturday should get things moving and the color could make a big jump quickly. The northwest corner of the state will likely be at peak color by this weekend.

Continue to look to the northern third of New Jersey for the most amount of change but fall color everywhere in NJ.

Road trip – Central Jersey to New Paltz, NY: Colors are looking muted in Central Jersey, this could be due to the excessive rainfall from Ida. Northern NJ hillsides are appearing pretty green from a distance – it’s best to get on a trail to see the most color. Harriman S.P. appears at moderate color. Shawangunk region of New York is near or at peak color.

10/18/21 Lake Awosting at Minnewaska S.P. [New York’s Shawangunk region]
Ranging from near peak to peak color around the lake as well as on the trails. Nice color driving to the park and around New Paltz.

Fall foliage surrounding Lake Awosting
Awosting carriage trail with bright yellow foliage

10/17/21 Wallkill Valley Rail Trail [New York’s Shawangunk region]
Mix of high color and green. Lots of yellow tones and the color was actually more pronounced than the photos capture. View from the Rosendale Trestle bridge:

View of a river and road from the Rosendale Trestle bridge
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail with fall foliage

10/15/21 – Catfish Tower via Rattlesnake Swamp Trail [Warren County, NJ]
Moderate color overall. Lots of color on the trail, some around Catfish Pond. Viewpoints from the Appalachian Trail looking over NJ showing a lot of green still. Mixed from Catfish Tower.

Fall foliage from Catfish Fire Tower
Appalachian Trail looking over NJ
Catfish Pond with some fall foliage
Catfish Pond seen through yellow fall foliage

10/15/21 – Crater Lake [Sussex County, NJ]
Some color popping in with the green. These photos are on the lake taken from a kayak. Note that Skyland Drive is closed M-Th for several weeks; check DWG NPS site for status.

Kayaker on a lake with fall foliage
Crater Lake
Orange foliage at the edge of Crater Lake

10/15/21…

This weekend and into next week… Color can be found across New Jersey with the most in the northern third of the state, especially north west and north central. High Point / Stokes is likely near peak. 

High color found also along the northwest edge of NJ around Mohican Outdoor Center (Appalachian Trail – Catfish Tower). Overall expect the usual Jersey foliage mix of green with color (a little muted right now) with some trees that have dropped leaves.

Potentials for color (we make no guarantees!):

Check out: “Fall foliage ‘could be a banner year’ in South Jersey”.

Further out… New York: The Adirondacks region in NY is a mix: Whiteface Mountain is peak, Lake George is near peak, while some areas are moving past (Lake Placid, Saranac Lake).

Most areas of the Catskills are at peak, with some still at midpoint. Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area is mostly low color with a lot of green on the mountainsides though some areas are approaching midpoint.

Pennsylvania: Northern Poconos are at peak with color, central is at 50% (portion that borders New Jersey, from Rt 80 north).

Even Further out… Central Maine is seeing peak with high color on the coast; north is past. Northern New Hampshire is at peak with high color elsewhere. Most of Vermont is at peak. Great Smoky Mountains color should kick up next week after a cold front moves in this weekend.

10/11/21…

Currently… Lots of yellow tones with brighter colors appearing at the edge of water and on lower vegetation. More color can be experienced on a trail; viewpoints are still looking over a decent amount of green. The change is lagging a little as temperatures need to get chillier (but not freezing) at night.

Central Jersey is seeing more color change now, but still look to the northern third of New Jersey for the most amount of color: High Point S.P., Stokes S.F., Kittatinny Valley S.P., Wawayanda S.P, Terrace Pond, Ramapo Mountains, Pyramid Mountain.

Fall foliage at Glasmere Pond

10/9/21 – Ringwood S.P. Skylands Manor – Ilgenstein Rock/Erskine Lookout – Passaic County
The viewpoints overlooked mostly green trees but lots of nice color happening ON the trail. High color around Glasmere Pond.

Ilgenstein Rock viewpoint

Color change on the trails at about 40%, lots of yellow and some reds. A good amount of leaf drop covering the trails with color.

Yellow fall foliage on a group of trees

Bonus: Also check out the beautiful New Jersey Botanical Gardens at Skylands Manor, same parking lot as this hike.

Row of colorful mums

10/8/21…

This weekend and into next week… More color change is spreading across the state with the most found in the north west and north central part of the state. The leaves need chilly nights to show their colors, and recent warm temperatures are slowing the change a bit. Look to the edges of lakes or swampy areas for the most color.

Best bets for fall color in New Jersey would be the northwest to north central part of the state: High Point S.P., Stokes S.F., Kittatinny Valley S.P., Wawayanda S.P, Terrace Pond, Ramapo Mountains, Pyramid Mountain.

A bit of a road trip is required to see full peak fall color right now:

Further out… New York: Peak color at Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, Lake Placid in the Adirondacks region in NY, with near peak at many upper elevations. Southern portions of ADK such as Lake George are only at 25%.

Catskills region is seeing near peak and peak at upper elevations. Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area is low color, around 25%.

Pennsylvania: Northern Poconos are at 50-75% with 30-40% color elsewhere on the eastern portion nearest to New Jersey.

Even Further out… Northern and western Maine is seeing peak color at 50-70% while the rest of the state has moderate change. Higher elevations in north and central Vermont are near peak or peak (Smugglers Notch; Route 100). Northern New Hampshire is peak, while the White Mountains are near peak.

10/3/21…

Currently… Color is appearing across the state. Mostly yellow tones spreading across green trees with brighter color popping up here and there. Areas near water and lower vegetation have more color. Still plenty of green trees.

As usual this early in the season, the largest amount of color change will be found across the northwestern portion of the state, generally Sussex County into Passaic. While New Jersey is a ways away from “peak” there is plenty of fall color to enjoy right now and then all the way into early November.

Potential higher color spots to explore this week: High Point S.P. , Stokes S.F., Kittatinny Valley, Wawayanda S.P.

10/2/21 – Great Valley Rail Trail Loop, Paulinskill Valley, Sussex Branch – Sussex County:
Encountered even more color than expected! There was a nice yellow glow on many trees and some reds popping up on lower shrubs and near water.

Yellow foliage arching over the Paulinskill Valley Rail Trail
Fall foliage reflected in the Paulins Skill stream

10/1/21…

This weekend and into next week… The season is getting underway. Expect low color appearing across the state, a blush of yellow on many leaves and some muted tones, with pops of color here and there but still a lot of green.

Best bets for early fall color in New Jersey would be the northwest to north part of the state such High Point S.P. (Sawmill and the park road, and swampy areas), Stokes S.F., Kittatinny Valley [possibly Wawayanda S.P.- there’s a race being held Oct 2-3; may want to avoid].

Jersey should be sunny with nice temps this weekend – take advantage of it! Check out “Fall foliage could be ‘best in years’ in many areas of N.J. and Pa., expert says“.

A road trip is required to see a higher amount color change – such as the Adirondacks in NY, Vermont, Maine:

Further out… New York: Best bet for color now is the Adirondacks region in NY with peak color at Lake Placid and Tupper Lake (“Tupper Lake Triad” – Mount Arab, Goodman Mountain, and Coney Mountain – “relatively easy climbs with incredible foliage vistas”). 

Catskills region is showing 50% at higher elevations with a 15-30% change elsewhere. Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area is just changing and around 10-15%.

Pennsylvania: Northern Poconos are at 25-40% with low color on elsewhere on the eastern portion nearest to New Jersey.

Even Further out… Northern Maine is seeing high color at 50-70% while south remains low. Northern parts of Vermont and New Hampshire have more color than southern areas.

9/28/21…

The season is just starting. There are yellow tones appearing on green leaves and reds on early turning maples across New Jersey – but most of the trees in the state remain green.

Overall outlook for NJ Foliage 2021: Color change timing looks to be on average right now, with NJ seeing peak color from October 19 to 29th.

Trees are heading into Fall not stressed from drought like in 2020 (which leads to early leaf drop), but northern and central NJ received so much extra rain that it could lead to slightly muted colors in those areas. Conditions in southern New Jersey could lead to a more vibrant color than usual.

And if you spot groups of brown leaves at the of ends of branches this is caused by 17-year periodical cicadas (“Brood X” in 2021). This “flagging” is only cosmetic and will not harm a mature tree.

2020

11/16/20 – Final Report

Some color lingers here and there across southern New Jersey but recent rain and wind has done a number on remaining leaves.

For our fellow year-round hikers – or anyone looking to be – head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

Don’t miss our Gifts for Hikers to take care of the outdoorsy people on your holiday list …or to treat yourself!

11/13/20…

This weekend and into next week…
For the most chance of color, aim for the lower third of New Jersey and along the coasts.

Rain this week has been knocking a lot of leaves off. Any color is mixed in with bare trees and a few that still have green.

Possibilities for some color in NJ (we make no guarantees!):

Further out…New York: Long Island is at peak. Pennsylvania: Some possible color in the southeast.

Even Further out – South of NJ…  Southeastern Maryland is at peak. Coastal Virginia has color. Shenandoah N.P. has some color at lower elevations.

11/10/20…

Currently…
Pops of color mixed with bare trees can be found in lower third of New Jersey and along the coasts.

The state is past peak and losing leaves fast so any suggested location is going to be mix of color and leaf drop, or entirely past. 

Based on spotting color along the Parkway in an area that tends to turn later: The Palisades, Paterson Falls, High Mountain might still be options.

Also could try southern NJ: Parvin State Park, Maurice River Bluffs, Belleplain State Park.

11/9/20…

Anthony’s Nose – Near NJ – Hudson Highlands, NY
While this area was peaking just at the end of last week, color is starting to fade on the hillsides. Nice spots of color still along the Camp Smith trail.

View from Anthony's Nose of fall foliage
Foliage on Camp Smith trail

11/7/20…

Stokes State Forest – Blue Mountain via Red Maple/AT
Sunny and 70 degree weather prompted a hike to Blue Mountain instead of seeking out the last bits of foliage. Bits of color lingered on the trail but that was it, as expected.

View from Blue Mountain
Red orange foliage and leaf drop on a trail

11/6/20…

This weekend and into next week…
To find the most color, aim for the lower third of New Jersey and along the coasts but there are still pockets of color around the rest of state.

We’re at the point that any color is mixed in with trees that have lost their leaves and some that still have green. 

The next few days are looking like it should be sunny and near 70 (!) – take advantage of that if at all possible.

Possibilities for color in/near NJ (we make no guarantees!):

Further out…New York: Hudson Highlands area on either side of the Hudson River is at peak (West Mountain & Doodletown, Anthony’s Nose, Breakneck Ridge, Bull Hill etc). Long Island is at peak.

Pennsylvania: Peak to past peak color in the southeast; most else is past.

Even Further out – South of NJ…  Eastern Maryland is at peak. Shenandoah N.P is seeing some color but with a decent amount of leaf drop. Great Smoky N.P still has color at lower elevations throughout the park.

11/2/20…

Currently…
Look to the southern third of the state and coastal areas for color.

Recent rain, low temps, and wind hasn’t done the foliage any favors but color is still on the trails. Just expect leaf drop and bare trees mixed with pops of color.

This week should see sun and milder temps in the low 60s so if you can get out, do so!

Possibilities for color in NJ (we make no guarantees!):

11/1/20…

Cheesequake State Park
Hooks Creek Lake and trails were a mix of color and green with some leaf drop.

10/31/20…

Goat Hill Overlook – Hunterdon County
Trails had some color while the surrounding hills a mix of green, fading color, and bare trees.

Milford Bluffs – Hunterdon County
Some color on the trails and on the surrounding hills but past peak and fading.

10/30/20…

This weekend and into next week…
Aim for the southern half of New Jersey as the northern half of the state is moving past peak. Expect to see leaf drop from all the rain this week (might be a good weekend for waterfalls…)

And just because an area might be technically “past peak” that doesn’t mean it’s all bare trees. Peak just means all the leaves have changed – there’s still colorful leaves left in past peak areas.

Possibilities for color in NJ (we make no guarantees!):

Further out…New York: Hudson Highlands and Bear Mountain/Harriman area is at peak (West Mountain & Doodletown, Anthony’s Nose, Breakneck Ridge).

Pennsylvania: Peak color from Philadelphia towards Lancaster (possibly Wissahickon Gorge, Ridley Creek, Kelly’s Run). Poconos are past peak.

Even Further out – North of NJ… Color can be found in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

Even Further out – South of NJ…  Northeastern Maryland is at peak; Elk Neck State Park, Gunpowder Falls. Shenandoah N.P is still seeing color but with leaf drop. Great Smoky N.P locations 2000′ and lower are peak (Cades Cove, Cataloochee Valley); high and mid elevations are past peak. 

10/26/20…

Currently…
There’s plenty of bright color across NJ but chilly temperatures have increased the leaf drop. Expect some trails to be blanketed in color and some bare trees mixed in with full color.

Based on our scenic drives returning from hikes this weekend, potential areas for good color this week might be:

10/25/20…

Delaware Water Gap (Warren County, NJ)
An overcast day muted the colors a bit but it was still quite nice. This area is at peak color but moving past. The trails showed a decent amount of leaf drop.

Catfish Fire Tower:

Appalachian Trail – South of Catfish Tower.

Crater Lake: Peak color around the lake is starting to move past.

10/24/20…

Black River at Cooper Mill (Morris County, NJ)
Some really beautiful areas along the river with more leaves on the ground than expected but that just adds to the effect. Quite a few bare trees around Kay’s Pond.

10/23/20…

This weekend and into next week…
Terrific color can be found all across New Jersey – and more vibrant than we’ve seen in a few years.  

The most northwestern corner of the state (High Point S.P, Stokes) was at peak this week and should continue to have good color this weekend though it’s likely moving past peak.

Near to peak color is likely across the northern half of NJ, with the rest of the state seeing moderate to near peak color. 

With a decent forecast this is the weekend to get out there and treat your eyeballs!!!

Note: Parking is filling very early at popular spots such as the Water Gap, High Point, or Hacklebarney. Go early, have alternates in mind, or try a weekday if possible.

Possibilities for color in/near NJ (we make no guarantees!):

Further out…New York: Adirondacks is past peak with lingering color, Catskills is past peak with still a lot of color. Hudson Valley is at peak with some areas moving past. Hudson Highlands is peak West of the Hudson River, and near peak East of it. Bear Mountain is at 75% color.

Pennsylvania: Central and Southern Poconos at peak, Northern is past peak. Promised Land, Lehigh Gorge/Jim Thorpe area are options.

Even Further out – North of NJ… New Hampshire’s southern end is at peak, the rest past. Vermont has peak color in some southern areas with the rest past. Good color can be found in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

Even Further out – South of NJ… Shenandoah N.P is seeing moderate to peak color in higher elevations. Great Smoky N.P has peak color at elevations at 3000-4000 ft while above 4500 is past.

10/19/20…

Currently…
Peak color at High Point S.P. and Stokes S.F. in Sussex County which should continue this week, depending on the weather of course. 

Overall the color seems a bit more vibrant than we’ve seen in the last few seasons. 

Color is spreading it’s way down the state. There was a lot of nice color along Rt. 15 above Rt 80, as well as color along Rt 206 through Chester.

Stokes State Forest – Sussex County – 10/18/20:
Beautiful peak color change seen from overlooks on the Appalachian Trail and Sunrise Mountain, with mostly vibrant yellows along the trails.

View from Culver Lookout Tower

View from Sunrise Mountain

Stony Lake Trail

High Point State Park – Sussex County – 10/17/20:
Both the trees and understory bushes were showing vibrant peak color with plenty of reds and oranges.

High Point Monument seen from Steeny Kill Lake

Monument Trail

High Point Monument seen from Lake Marcia

View over NJ from High Point Monument

10/16/20…

This weekend and into next week…
We’re moving into prime time for fall foliage in NJ. Peak color is appearing in the most northwestern corner of the state with near peak color just south of that. 

Moderate color can be found in the rest of the northern half of NJ as well as some areas further south such as Wharon or Brendan Bryne. Elsewhere is low color.

Heavy rain today may knock a few leaves off but should make waterfalls flow. And this weekend is looking to be mostly sunny with some comfortable perfect-for-hiking temperatures.

Possibilities for color in NJ (we make no guarantees!):

Further out…New York: Adirondacks and Catskills region is at peak to past peak areas that still have a lot of color. Hudson Valley should be hitting peak this weekend; Gertude’s Nose might be an option. Bear Mtn. and the Hudson Highlands have moderate color.

Pennsylvania: Central Poconos is high color, Southern is moderate to high, while Northern is past peak with about 50% of the leaves on the trees. Tobyanna, Promised Land, Cliff Park, Mauch Chunk Lake are options for color.

Even Further out – North of NJ… New Hampshire’s White Mountains are at peak to past peak, with peak or near peak conditions in the rest of the state. Vermont is peak with some areas moving past. Southern/coastal Maine is at peak while the rest of the state is past. 

Even Further out – South of NJ… Shenendoah N.P is seeing moderate to peak color in higher elevations. Great Smoky N.P is around 50% changed in higher elevations.

10/12/20…

Currently…
Color change has made a decent progression in the last week. Plenty of color on trails and at the edge of water, with the most amount of change found in the northern third of the state.

Wawayanda State Park – Sussex County – 10/10/20:
Some of the most vibrant areas were around the lake closest to the main parking areas.

Nice color on the trails, trees around the lake edge are moderate color mixed with green.

Monksville Reservoir – Passaic County – 10/10/20
Beautiful color popping at water’s edge, it’s still low to moderate color higher up on the surrounding mountains. These photos were taken from the boat launch parking areas on either side of Rt 511.

10/9/20…

This weekend and into next week…
Color can be found across all of New Jersey with the most change in the northern part of the state. And nice temperatures are forecasted again this weekend. 

Best bets for color in NJ would be High Point and Stokes S.F., with other possibilities in Terrace Pond North, Kittatinny Valley, Monksville Reservoir, Long Pond S.P, Ringwood S.P., maybe Splitrock Reservoir (we make no guarantees!). 

There is plenty of beautiful color while on the trails even if from viewpoints hills and mountains appear to have low to moderate color still. Also look to the edges of  lakes and ponds where color turns first.

The color change is more on a usual timeframe and not running ahead like earlier in the season.

Further out… New York: Adirondacks and Catskills region is at peak with some higher areas moving past. Hudson Valley is nearing peak with around 60% change. Bear Mtn. area is low to moderate color at around 40%. Hudson Highlands has low color with about 15% changed.

Hudson Valley is around mid-point to nearing peak. Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area has low color with 10-30% changed.

Pennsylvania: Central and southern Poconos are at moderate color with 40% changed while northern Poconos are 100% changed and with some leaf drop. Promised Land is an option for color.

Even Further out… New Hampshire’s northern tip and White Mountains are at peak with high color found elsewhere. Vermont is mostly near peak with some areas moving past, a scenic drive and hikes along Rt 100 a good chance of nice color. 

Southern/coastal Maine is at peak but the rest of the state quickly moved to past peak with high leaf drop.

10/9/20 – Mohonk Preserve – New Paltz, NY – The ‘Gunks’
Minnewaska Trail, Undercliff Trail – mid point of change.

10/8/20 – Minnewaska S.P. – New Paltz, NY – The ‘Gunks’
Near peak color from Litchfield Ledge and Castle Point looking towards Lake Awosting. Nice color along Mossy Glen, Jenny Lane, and Rainbow Falls trails too.

Low to moderate color on Hamilton Point looking towards Gertrude’s Nose.

Vibrant fall foliage with a lake in the distance

10/5/20…

Currently…
Color is showing up on trails and at the edge of lakes and ponds, with the most amount of change found in the north west and north central part of the state, mainly north of Rt. 80.

Terrace Pond North – Passaic County – 10/3/20:
Plenty of color in the low shrubs and shorter trees along the trail with mainly green seen from the many overlooks. Some color change around Terrace Pond but it was muted.

10/2/20…

This weekend and into next week…
Leaves are changing across all of New Jersey and the forecast is calling for perfect fall temperatures for this weekend! 

The most chance for fall color is in north western and north central New Jersey but nice pops of color can be found just about anywhere in the state.

Expect low color mixed with green trees. Mostly yellows, with some stressed leaves showing bits of brown. More color change and some reds showing in lower bushes.

Best bets for a little color in NJ would be High Point and Stokes S.F., with other possibilities in Kittatinny Valley State Park and Pyramid Mountain (we make no guarantees!). 

In central NJ, try Manasquan Reservoir where colors started making a show along the water’s edge last weekend.

Further out… New York: Best bet for peak color now is the Adirondacks and Catskills regions. Adirondacks is peaking with 70-90% changed. Catskills is also peaking with 50-90% change.

Hudson Valley is around mid-point to nearing peak. Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area has low color with 10-30% changed.

Pennsylvania: Poconos are at about 20-30% changed with Tobyhanna State Park, Promised Land, and Rt. 390 as options for color.

Even Further out… Most of Maine is peak color with some far north areas past; south is at 50% or less. New Hampshire’s White Mountains are peak to near peak.

Vermont is running slightly ahead of norm with most areas at least mid-point with many at or near peak, a scenic drive and hikes along Rt 100 offer a good chance of nice color.

9/28/20…

Currently…
Color is showing up across New Jersey, with the most amount of change found in the north west and north central part of the state.

Expect a fair amount of green trees with some that are quite far along, in addition to the low bushes that usually change first.

Overall, the change seems to be progressing a bit earlier than average, with color popping up in spots further south than usual this early in the season.

Manasquan Reservoir – Monmouth County – 9/27/20
Nice pops of color along the water’s edge, seen from a kayak. Most of the color was along the shore where the dead trees stick up.

Fall color with trees sticking out of water
Trees starting to turn color along the edge of water

9/25/20…

This weekend and into next week…
The season is just getting underway with low color is starting to appear in north western and north central New Jersey, with spots of color showing up in the rest of the state.

Best bets for a little color in NJ would be High Point and Stokes S.F., and possibly Bearfort Ridge – Surprise Lake area.

Further out… New York: Best bet for color now is the Adirondacks region in NY with 50% color. Catskills region ranges from 25-40%. Hudson Valley/Hudson Highlands/Bear Mtn. area is just changing and around 10-20%.

Pennsylvania: Poconos are just changing with 10-15% color; but Tobyhanna State Park  and Prompton State Park may be options to snag some color that may be further along than NJ.

Even Further out… Northern Maine is seeing high color at 50-70% while south remains low at 10-30%. New England’s overall season looks to potentially be bright – but a bit early and possibly brief. Right now try Smugglers Notch in VT or in NH the higher regions of the White Mountains or along the Kancamagus Highway.

9/23/20…

Recent cool overnight temperatures are kicking the foliage change into gear, slightly earlier than usual. If drier than normal conditions continue, colors could be a bit muted.

9/20/20…

Overall, color is just starting to appear but trees remain mostly green. We spotted yellows and a few pops of color appearing north of Rt 80 in the north central part of the state.

11/18/19… Final Report for 2019.

Some leaves linger here and there across southern New Jersey but the color has faded and leaf drop is very high.

For our fellow year-round hikers – or anyone looking to be – head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

11/15/19… 

This weekend… Some color can still be found across parts southern New Jersey. Leaf drop is very high.

Even further out… Central Virginia, TN and NC are high to peak color and will move past peak in the next week.

11/11/19…

Thompson Park – Monmouth County – 11/10/19
Muted yellows as well as some stubborn green.

Rooty trail at Thompson Park
Still some green at Thompson Park

Currently… Lingering color and some green leaves still on trees can still be found across parts of central and southern New Jersey. Leaf drop is high.

11/8/19…

This weekend and into next week…
While all of New Jersey is technically “past peak”, fall color can still be found across central and southern New Jersey amongst trees that have dropped their leaves (and some that are still green).

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… in New York… peak to past peak color may be found in Long Island and NYC. The rest of NY as well as Pennsylvania is past peak.

Even further out… Central Virginia is at peak color. TN and NC are high to peak.

11/4/19…

Currently… Plenty of color can still be found across central and southern New Jersey so you’ve got at least a week or two to enjoy some fall foliage.

Just expect to see color mixed in with trees that have dropped most or all of their leaves (and some green leaves here and there too). 

Watchung Reservation – Union County – 11/2/19
Lots of peak color but also 50%+ leaf drop. Some of the most leaf-filled trees were found around Surprise Lake and the section of the Sierra trail that nears the horse stables.

11/1/19…

This weekend and into next week…
There is still plenty of color out there in central and southern New Jersey, despite the recent wind and rain.

This weekend is forecasted to be sunny with perfect fall hiking temps. We’ve listed lots of suggested hikes across many different areas… go get some color while it lasts!!!!

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… in New York… Long Island is at peak, NYC is near peak. Lower Hudson Valley, Bear Mountain, and Harriman State Park are peak to past peak.

In Pennsylvania… Southeastern P.A. is seeing peak color (the area of Philadelphia and south of that borders N.J.). Poconos southern region is moving to past peak.

Even further out… Maryland and West Virginia range from high to peak color, with past peak color at higher elevations of WV.  Southern VA and most of TN and NC are at moderate color. New England is past peak.

10/28/19…

Currently… Vibrant color can be found across New Jersey. The wet weather really kicked up the color from it’s somewhat muted start. This is the brightest color we’ve seen in the last few years.

Sunday’s rain caused a decent amount of leaf drop, of course, but there still is plenty of color – go get it!

Reports from this past weekend:
—Rt 80 West from Rt 206 = Peak
—Rt 206 N through Chester to Rt 80 = Near peak to peak
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick = High to near peak

Jenny Jump – Ghost Lake – Warren County – 10/26/19
Peak color with areas of leaf drop.

Ghost Lake at Jenny Jump
Jenny Jump Summit Trail
Foliage from Summit Trail atJenny Jump

Allamuchy Pond Trail – Warren County – 10/26/19
Peak color with leaf drop.

Allamuchy Pond Trail
Path around Allamuchy Pond

Rt. 80 Scenic Overlook – Warren County – 10/26/19

About a mile from the Allamuchy Pond Trail, heading East on Rt 80.

Foliage from the Rt. 80 Scenic Overlook

10/25/19…

This weekend and into next week…
Rain has boosted the vibrancy of the color across the state PLUS this weekend and over the next few weeks will be prime foliage. Go out and get some eye candy!

The northwestern corner of the state is past peak color, but peak to moderate color can be found everywhere else. And even if an area is “past peak” it can still have color – it’s just past the point where all leaves have changed.

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

Further out… in New York… Hudson Valley is peaking, Bear Mountain is a mix of peak, green, and leaf drop. The Catskills is peak at lower elevations with the rest past.

In Pennsylvania… Poconos central (which borders NJ from High Point to Rt 80) and southern region are at peak color.

Even further out… Southern Maine and New Hampshire are at peak. Massachusetts and Connecticut are high to peak color. West Virginia is peak at higher elevations, with peak to high color spreading across WV and VA.

Belleplain State Park – Cumberland/Cape May County – 10/25/19
Near peak color. More on the roads than the trails; nice biking option.

Fall at Belleplain
Fall at Belleplain State Park

Parvin State Park – Salem County – 10/25/19:

Fall color at Parvin State Park
Fall color at Parvin

Patriot’s Path – Morris County – 10/24/19:

Fall foliage on the Patriot's Path
Patriot's Path

Frelinghuysen Arboretum – Morris County – 10/24/19:

Fall at Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Frelinghuysen Arboretum

D&R Canal – Somerset County – 10/23/19:

D&R Canal
Towpath along the D&R canal

10/21/19…

Currently… Near peak to peak conditions across the northern third of New Jersey. Moderate color across the majority of the rest of the state. The color is mixed with green unchanged leaves and areas with leaf drop from the windy storm last week.

New Jersey… Near peak color around Abram Hewitt, Bearfort Mountain, Ringwood, Ramapos, Norvin Green. Decent amounts of leaf drop from the wind earlier this week.

Hudson Valley, New York… The lower areas have a mix of high color to green, but a lot of leaf drop up on the hills. Beyond the Breakneck scramble, the trails to Sunset Point and back over Sugarloaf had very few leaves on the trees.

Reports from the past few days (listed north to south):
—9D/9W in Hudson Valley NY (Storm King/Breakneck) = high color
—Palisades Parkway NY (Bear Mountain) = high color
—Rt 287 to Rt 511 and Greenwood Lake Turnpike = near peak color
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick to Rt 80 = Moderate to high

Terrace Pond North / Passaic County NJ – 10/19/19:

Breakneck Ridge to Sunset Point / Hudson Valley, NY – 10/18/19

View of Storm King from Breakneck Ridge
Breakneck Ridge trail

Storm King / Hudson Valley, NY – 10/17/19

View from Storm King
Storm King view over the Hudson River

10/18/19…

This weekend and into next week…
High winds and heavy rain on Wednesday knocked some leaves down, especially in the northwestern part of New Jersey. High Point State Park is reporting past peak conditions but that doesn’t mean there isn’t any color there.

Moderate color is spreading south more, into Somerset and Mercer, and down the center part of the state.

Low color remains along the coasts, however Double Trouble State Park in Ocean County is reporting peak conditions with a recommendation of viewing around reservoirs.

Best bets for color would be… Kittatinny, Ringwood, Ramapo Mountains, Pyramid Mountain; possibly Delaware Water Gap area (Mt. Tammany, Sunfish Pond)

Further out… in New York… The Adirondacks is a mix of peak and past-peak, The Catskills is peak color with areas past. Hudson Valley is near peak with more green near the river. Bear Mountain is 70% change.

In Pennsylvania… Northern Poconos region is past peak, with peaking color in the central region (which borders NJ from High Point to Rt 80). 

Even further out… Central Maine is at peak, with high along the coast. Vermont and New Hampshire are peak color. Massachusetts and Connecticut are high color. West Virginia is peak at higher elevations.

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

10/14/19…

Currently… Moderate color is appearing across the northern third of New Jersey with the area north of Rt. 80 heading quickly towards high color. 

Low color is found in the rest of the state, with moderate pops of color mixed. Expect to see pockets of brown leaves or leaf drop on trees that were stressed from lack of rain in September. Just mentally photoshop those out :)

Reports from this past weekend (listed north to south):
—Rt 15 and Rt 206 N from Rt 80 = Moderate to high.
—Rt 287 N from Rt 80 to Hamburg Turnpike = Moderate.
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick to Rt 80 = Low to moderate, much more color than the week prior.

–Cliff Park, Milford Knob, Hackers Falls – 10/13/19
–Raymondskill Falls – 10/13/19

Get a wide view over northwestern New Jersey (Sussex County) from the Cliff trail on the Pennsylvania side of Delaware Water Gap Rec. Area. At moderate color. Both Raymondskill and Hackers Falls were flowing.

Cliff trail, looking back south over the Delaware River at New Jersey: 

Cliff trail looking south into NJ

Cliff trail, looking north over Pennsylvania at New Jersey with New York in the far distance.

Cliff trail looking north into PA

Along the Pond trail:

Fall foliage on the Pond Loop

The Pond trail:

Pond in Cliff Park

Raymondskill Falls, a short walk from the same parking area as the Cliff Park hike.

Raymondskill Falls

10/11/19…

This weekend and into next week…
Look for at least some low color across all of New Jersey. Moderate color is now starting to spread into Morris, Hunterdon, and Bergen counties so moderate color can be found across the northern third of the state.

Best bets for fall color in N.J… High Point, Stokes S.F., Norvin Green, Long Pond, Ringwood, possibly Pyramid Mountain or Jenny Jump.

Further out… in New York… The Adirondacks is at peak, The Catskills is near-peak to peak color. In Pennsylvania… Northern Poconos region is peaking, with high color in the central region (which borders NJ from High Point to Rt 80).

Even further out… Northern Maine is at peak, with high along the coast. Vermont and New Hampshire are high to peak color. West Virginia has high color in higher elevations.

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

10/7/19…

Currently… Low color is appearing across most of New Jersey with the most color is north of Rt. 80. Some stressed, early changing trees have brown leaves that are dropping but the majority is still green and ready to change.

Report from this past weekend:

Apshawa Preserve – Passaic County – 10/5/19
Less color around Butler Reservoir than expected as well as some brown areas amongst unchanged leaves. Some good color at the end of the route. Apshawa Falls and the dam were totally dry.

Butler Reservoir from Red trail / Apshawa Preserve 10/5/19:

Butler Reservoir at Apshawa Preserve

Green trail / Apshawa Preserve 10/5/19 :

Fall foliage at Apshawa Preserve

Overlook on Green trail / Apshawa Preserve 10/5/19:

Overlook at Apshawa Preserve

Orange trail / Apshawa Preserve 10/5/19:

Foliage at Apshawa Preserve

10/4/19…

This weekend and into next week…
The big temp drop this week should kick the color up. Look for low color across all of New Jersey, with moderate color in the northwestern section of the state. The dry conditions did stress some trees, so expect a little brown tucked in there.

Best bets for color would be High Point, Stokes S.F., Norvin Green, possibly Wawayanda.

Further out… in New York… The Adirondacks is high to peak color, The Catskills moderate to high with some peak areas. Northern Poconos region in Pennsylvania is near or at peak, with moderate color in the central region (which borders NJ from High Point to Rt 80).

Even further out… Northern Maine is peaking, with moderate to high color in the rest of the state. Vermont and New Hampshire are moderate to high color.

Potential hikes with some color (we make no guarantees!):

10/1/19…

Currently… Low color is appearing across northern New Jersey. 

Reports from this past weekend (listed north to south):
—Rt 287 N from Rt 80 to Hamburg Turnpike = Low color.
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick to Rt 80 = Low color.

Torne Mountain/Osio Rock – Norvin Green S.F. – Passaic County:

View from Osio Rock
View from Hewitt-Butler Trail

9/27/19…

This weekend and into next week…
Look for low color across Northern New Jersey, with pops of color in the rest of the state. Best bets would be northwestern NJ such as High Point and Stokes S.F., and possibly north central around Bearfort Ridge – Surprise Lake area.

Further out… The Adirondacks and Catskills in New York have moderate color at around mid-point of change with near-peak color at higher elevations.

Northern Poconos region in Pennsylvania is seeing moderate color, while it’s only 5-10% changed in the central region (which borders NJ from High Point to Rt 80).

Even further out… Northern Maine and sections of Vermont have moderate color.

9/22/19…

Currently… Low color is starting to appear in north central New Jersey above Rt 80. Most of the state is still green as it’s early in the season plus we’ve had some warm weather recently which can delay the change.

Further out… Higher points in the Adirondacks in New York are approaching mid-point with the rest of the state just starting to turn. The Poconos region in Pennsylvania is seeing color change between 10-20%.

Even further out… Northern Maine and sections of Vermont have low color.

Reports from this past weekend (listed north to south):
—Rt 287 N to Rt 23 N = Some low color.
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick to Rt 80 = little to none.

Terrace Pond Loop – Passaic County, NJ – 9/21/19. Some low color appearing along the pond and across viewpoints:

Fall color starting to appear at Terrace Pond.
Fall color starting from a view on the way to Terrace Pond.

11/15/18… Final Report for 2018.

There are lingering bits of color out there central, south and coastal… but a storm today with wind/snow pretty much ends the foliage season. 

For our fellow year-round hikers, or anyone looking to be, head over to our Winter Hiking pages:

11/12/18…

There are still pops of color to be found amongst increasingly bare trees. A windy Saturday didn’t help things and everywhere in NJ is past peak.

Best bets… are still central, southern, and coastal New Jersey as well as southeastern PA.

Report from 11/11/18…

Thompson Park Conservation Area [Middlesex County] – past peak but vibrant yellows and orange can still be found.

11/9/18…

This weekend and into next week… Rain and wind made quick work of moving the state past peak.

There is still some bits of bright color out there but expect to see more leaves on the ground than on the trees at this point. But hey, they are colorful and pretty on the ground too.

Best bets… are still central, southern, and coastal New Jersey as well as southeastern PA.

Further out… NY: Harriman, Bear Mtn, lower Hudson Valley peak to past peak. Even further out… High to peak color in West Virginia and Virginia but higher elevations are past peak.

Potential hikes with lingering color (we make no guarantees!):

For more hike ideas, pop over to our Hike Finder map.

11/5/18…

There is abundant brilliant color out there but rain and wind is taking it’s toll so don’t delay in getting out.

North is moving past peak so the best bet is central, southern, and coastal New Jersey as well as southeastern PA. Further out, West Virginia is peaking.

Reports from 11/4/18…

Parvin State Park – peak color.

Peak color / 50% leaf drop for:
Black River County Park / Cooper Mill [Morris County]:

Schooley’s Mountain [Morris County]:

Duke Farms [Somerset County]:

Go get some color before it’s gone!!!! For more hike ideas, pop over to our Hike Finder map.

Keep scrolling down to see foliage reports and photos from the past week…

11/4/18…

High to peak color is across the state. With some sunshine for a change, today is the day to get out there! Because of this delayed season, expect green and bare trees in the mix. The color should linger over the next few weeks but leaf drop will be increasing quick.

11/3/18…

Still plenty of color out there even after a windy overnight and Saturday. Report from today:

Rt 29 – Washington Crossing [Mercer County] to Frenchtown [Hunterdon County]…
Rt. 29 runs on the NJ side of the Delaware River and ranged from intense peak color to totally bare trees. The river banks tended to be muted color with leaf drop but the roads were bursting with color in many areas.

Similar conditions on the PA side return, Rt 32 from Upper Black Eddy to Bowman’s Hill. More color closer to Washington Crossing than to Frenchtown. Hike options: Washington Crossing, Fiddlers Creek, Baldpate, Goat Hill Overlook, Delaware Canal Towpath.

View from Bowman’s Hill Tower (PA) looking over the Delaware River into New Jersey, towards Goat Hill Overlook:

View from Bowman’s Tower, over PA:

The Delaware Canal Towpath and Washington Crossing park:

Near peak to peak color for:

Ken Lockwood Gorge [11-1-18; Hunterdon County]:

Batsto @ Wharton SF [10-31-18; Burlington County]:

Black Run Preserve [10-28-18; Burlington County]:

11/2/18…

This weekend and into next week… Color has popped all over the state. It ranges between high and peak color – so you can hike just about anywhere and treat your eyeballs. 

Keep in mind with this delayed season you’ll see a mix of green and bare trees in with the color. There might be another weekend or two with but it’s best to get out this weekend if possible.

Further out… PA: Southern Poconos and the area of PA adjacent to NJ is at peak color, Hawk Mountain is nearing peak; Central Poconos is peak to past peak. NY: Harriman, Bear Mtn, lower Hudson Valley is high to peak. Even further out… Higher elevations of West Virginia are at high color.

Potential hikes with color (we make no guarantees!):

11/1/18…

Holmdel Park – North Section – Monmouth County – Mostly yellows on the trails, but there are some different trees around the parking lots that were spectacular if you want some easy peeping.

Frelinghuysen Arboretum – Morris County on 11/1/18 – While not a hiking spot per se, it’s good for an easy walk through a lot of color.

10/31/18…

Cheesequake State Park – Yellow, Blue, Green trails – Middlesex County – High to peak colors but also some green and bare trees. Also received a report that colors are vivid along the coast around Ocean City down to Cape May. 

Cheesequake – Green Trail…

Cheesequake – Blue Trail at Perrine Pond…

Cheesequake – Yellow Trail at Hooks Creek Lake…

10/30/18…

D&R Canal Towpath at Blackwells Mills – Somerset County:

10/29/18…

Currently… Color has sharply increased all across NJ. The most change is still in the northern portion of the state, but there are ranges of good color just about anywhere. 

Still expect to find a mix of green leaves and bare trees along with the colorful leaves. Overall, the wind from Saturday’s storm didn’t increase the leaf drop too much.

This coming week and weekend… should bring high to peak colors to a lot of the state. Mild temps are forecasted a few days this week to possibly get in a lunchtime walk… or even better, take a day off!

Reports from this past weekend:

—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick – Rt 80 – moderate color mixed with green and leaf drop but an obvious increase from last week
—Rt 15 to Rt 206 N: High color mixed with green and leaf drop:

—Stokes S.F. – Appalachian Trail and Acropolis Trail from Culvers Gap to Blue Mountain: High to near Peak color. [This hike isn’t up on the site yet; page to come.]

It was dark and overcast all day with only little peeks of sun so the photos look much duller than reality.

10/28/18 update…

Driving out this morning, appears yesterday’s wind didn’t seem to affect leaves much. Color popping up all over.

10/26/18…

Currently… The color change has increased across all of New Jersey, with the most color found in the northwest corner but moderate to high color is also showing up in Wharton near Atsion, Double Trouble, and Rt. 18 into the Eatontown area.

But with this delayed season expect a mixed bag: color, some muted, along with green leaves and trees that have dropped leaves. A storm coming Saturday won’t help.

Further out… find moderate color in NY around Bear Mtn and Harriman. Near peak or peak color in the Hudson Valley (NY) and even further away in the Finger Lakes (NY). Central Poconos (PA) is peaking.
Potential hikes with color (we make no guarantees!):

For more ideas, pop over to our Hike Finder map.

10/22/18…

Currently… There is at least low to moderate color change in all of New Jersey. The most color is still mostly across the northern third, with the northwest corner (High Point, Stokes, Del. Water Gap NRA) your best bet for Jersey color.

In southern NJ, Double Trouble and Wharton are seeing some color pop up. Parvins is mostly green. Rt 55 is low color.

This coming weekend will be prime time to search for color, but the season may also extend to the first few weekends in November. But with this later than normal change, expect to find a mix of green leaves and color than can be somewhat muted mixed with some leaf drop. 

Reports from this past weekend:

New Jersey:
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick to Chester – low to moderate, obvious increase from the week before
—Rt 206 N from Chester – moderate but muted with some leaf drop in spots:

—Rt 80 West to the Gap – moderate muted color with more leaf drop than Chester
—Rt 206 at border with PA through Rt 15 to Rt 80 – Not quite moderate, muted, also many trees with leaf drop

Central Poconos, PA:
—From Rt 80 to Rt 447 N to 390 N to Promised Land SP – high muted color mixed with green and some leaf drop:

—Rt 6 from Wallenpaupack to Milford PA – moderate to high, mixed with green

10/18/18…

This weekend and into next week… Fall color is still taking it’s sweet time across New Jersey, but that just means more opportunities to hit the trails with beautiful autumn weather… and to reward all that effort with a post-hike cider donut (or three).

Currently… there is at least low to moderate color change in all of New Jersey.

The most color is across the northern third, with the northwest corner (High Point, Stokes, Del. Water Gap NRA) your best bet for Jersey color. Nearby, just across the river into PA, the central Poconos region should peak this weekend.

Further out… find moderate color in NY in the Hudson Valley, Sterling Forest, Bear Mtn, Harriman. High color in the Gunks (NY) and on through to the border with PA. Catskills (NY) is peak to past peak while much of the Adirondacks, VT, NH and northern Maine is moving past peak color.

Potential hikes with color (we make no guarantees!):

For more ideas, pop over to our Hike Finder map.

10/15/18…

Fall color has been moving sloooow but now the change should be amping up. Currently, there is at least low color change in all of New Jersey even though large areas are still green. The most color is in the northwest corner (High Point, Stokes).

Reports from this past weekend (listed north to south):

—Rt 97 in NY, Upper Delaware River: surprisingly, low color still (Hawks Nest viewpoint):

—Rt 206 N from Newton through Stokes – low with moderate areas:

—Rt 15 through Sparta – low, some moderate (Mahlon Dickerson)
—Rt 206 N from Netcong – low, some moderate (Allamuchy, Kittatinny Valley)
—Rt 206 N from Chester – low with a few spots of moderate (Hacklebarney, Schooleys)
—Rt 287 N from New Brunswick – low
—D&R Canal N from Washington Crossing to Lambertville – low:

10/12/18…

This weekend and into next week…New Jersey is seeing low color around the state, with the most color showing in the northern third… but it’s still behind usual times so don’t expect peak color there.

Best bet for Jersey color is the northwest corner of the state, perhaps over into the Highlands. Possibilities:

For more ideas, pop over to our Hike Finder map.

Further out… moderate color in Hudson Valley (NY) or central Poconos (PA). Near peak color in northern Poconos (PA). High to peak color in the Catskills (NY).

Find peak color in: The Adirondacks (NY), Vermont, Northern New Hampshire; Most of Maine, including Bar Harbor and Acadia NP (north Maine is moving past).

10/4/18…

Color is starting to appear in little bits here and there all across the state, but overall it’s still mostly green. Need some cooler temps to kick things up. Best bet for finding low color in NJ is the northwestern corner in High Point S.P. and Stokes S.F.

For the closest color to NJ... head to the Catskills (NY) for 50% to near peak, or high color in the northern Poconos (PA).

Further out… For the best color over Columbus Day weekend you’ll need to road trip up to the Adirondacks (NY) for peak and near peak color, or to the White Mountains (NH) and Green Mountains (VT) for near peak color. You can also take a loooong road trip to northern Maine for peak color.

9/20/18…

Not much color change in the New Jersey area as it’s early in the season and the weather has been warm. When the temperature dips a little it will spur the leaves on.

If you’re up for a little road trip… find some color in the Adirondacks in New York, as well the central Poconos in Pennsylvania. Even further out… northern Maine is seeing some color change.

2017 NJ Fall Foliage Report Archive

Final Report – this week thru weekend of Nov 18th/19th… The best chance for the last bits of color this season is the southern third of the state and the coastal areas. But still expect a mix of peak color, unchanged green leaves, brown leaves, and bare branches. After this weekend, unlikely to find much color.


11/11/17 – Washington Valley, Somerset County – Mix of beautiful peak color with past peak trees. 

11/9/17 – This weekend and into next week…
 Peak color across central, southern, and coastal areas, while northern Jersey has moved past peak. There’s still terrific color out there but expect to also see unchanged green as well as thinned or totally bare trees on the same trail. A cold snap this weekend will likely spur leaf drop so get out and soak it in now!

Potentials… Central: Round Valley, Baldpate Mtn, Washington Crossing, D&R Canal; Coast: Cheesequake, The Palisades, Hartshorne; Southern: Maurice River Bluffs, Belleplain.

Further out… Peak color in southeastern PA, the portion up against NJ from about Rt 78 and south. Near peak to peak in Long Island and NYC. Virginia and NC: mountains are at peak, with high color towards the coast.


11/4/17 – Sourland Mountains, Somerset County – High to Peak color. Like everywhere in the state at this point, the color was mixed with green leaves and some bare trees.

11/3/17 – This weekend and into next week… 
The state continues to be a mix of high to peak color, green leaves, and trees with leaf drop. Color can be found almost everywhere in varying amounts but best bets for color now moving to the central, south, and coastal portions of the state.

Try Hacklebarney, Cooper Mill, Round Valley, Baldpate Mtn, Washington Crossing, D&R Canal; The Palisades; Belleplain. Northwest corner is past peak (High Point).

Further out… Peak color in southeastern PA, the portion up against NJ from about Rt 78 and south. Peak in Harriman and Bear Mtn; Hudson Valley mix of peak to past peak. High color across Maryland. Peak in lower elevations of W. Virginia.

10/30/17 – Color can be still be found across all of New Jersey but this season has been a little different. In any one place might see a range from moderate to peak color right now – but also green leaves and leaf drop (the recent rain and wind didn’t help things). This makes it hard to suggest a particular spot to try, but also that most anywhere will have something. 

Some trees are still green so the season might be extended a bit in addition to the usual southern areas and the coast having color into November. The most northwestern corner of the state like High Point SP is moving past peak.

Further out… High color in southeastern PA, the portion up against NJ from about Rt 80 and south. Peak in Harriman and Bear Mtn; Hudson Valley mix of peak to past peak. Adirondacks and Catskills moving past peak.

Oct 21/22, Oct 28/29: Jersey will see the best color soon so plan to get out and about the weekends of Oct 21/22 and Oct 28/29. Since the color is a little slow to change this year, the first half of November should be good too, with the color moving more towards the coast and southern NJ.

10/20/17 – This weekend and into next week… Foliage is kicking up. North still has the most color change but the color is progressing intro central and south. Good bets for color would be High Point, Stokes, Wawayanda, Norvin Green, Ringwood, Ramapo Mountains.

Also look to places like Hacklebarney, Jockey Hollow, Sourland Mountain, Washington Crossing later next week.

Further out… NY: Bear Mountain SP and Hudson Valley are moderate to near peak; Catskills and Adirondacks at peak but higher elevations are past.

PA: Peak color in the central Poconos (Big Pocono SP or Tobyhanna are potentials), while northern Poconos is past peak; High to peak color across most of New England (some past peak for higher elevations). High to peak color in western Maryland and Eastern West Virginia (highest elevations past peek).

10/15/17 – Stokes State Forest – Sunrise Mountain to Culver Fire Tower – Moderate color across the northwest but we’re seeing the usual mixed bag: green leaves yet to change, colorful leaves, with a decent amount of leaf drop from the recent warm temps and no rain.

  • Rt 287 N from New Brunswick is low but color increases around exit for Great Swamp.
  • Rt 80 W  – 40-50% color.
  • Rt 15 N from Rt 80, Rt 206 N – Moderate color, 50%.

10/13/17 – This weekend and into next week… 
All of New Jersey is between low and moderate color with more color happening in the northwest and across the central part of northern Jersey in the Highlands.

Further out… NY: Catskills at peak; Hudson Valley 50-60% color change. PA: Central Poconos at peak likely this weekend, northern Poconos is moving past peak.

Even further out… Adirondacks NY at peak (highest elevations past peak);  high color across most of Vermont; peak for the northern half of Maine; high to peak color in eastern West Virginia (some past peak for higher elevations).

10/8/17 – Parvin State Park – Low color, with the understory shrubbery showing more color. The color is brightening up a bit from the muted tones of the leaves that changed first. (Hike it: Parvin State Park).

  • Turnpike South from Exit 9, Rt 55 South: Low color

10/6/17 – This weekend and into next week…
Low color showing across all of New Jersey now, with some areas of more color popping up in the northwest and the Highlands. Best bets are still High Point, Stokes, DWG and the nearby areas into PA/NY, Bearfort Ridge, Norvin Green.

Further out… most of the Adirondacks and Catskills near or at peak this weekend; northern Poconos expected to be high to peak this weekend and through next week. Even further out… higher elevations in the mountains are peaking in western Maryland/eastern West Virginia/western Virginia.

10/1/17 – Stokes S.F. – Low color overall with some small areas of moderate color. The leaves that have changed can be a little muted and there is some leaf drop because of the recent hot dry weather – but it’ still very early in the season. (Hike it: Blue Mountain Loop)

  • Rt 287 N from New Brunswick, Rt 80 W  – mostly unchanged
  • Rt 15 N from Rt 80, Rt 206 N – none to low color 

9/29/17 – This weekend and into next week…
The warm temps halted the color progression some, but with it turning cooler color change should kick back up. Best bet for color is still northwest NJ or the Highlands area.

Further out, find good color in NY in the Catskills and Adirondacks, as well as the northeast Poconos in PA. Even further out… for anyone looking for an impromptu road trip, the higher elevations in eastern West Virginia are at peak.

9/21/17 – This weekend and into next week…

The color is starting to turn in northwest NJ, with low color showing in higher elevations and along the water. (High Point, Stokes, DWG and the nearby areas into PA/NY, plus Highlands area like Norvin Green, Terrace Pond, Bearfort Ridge).

The best chance for more color is further out in NY (road trip!) in the Adirondacks, as well as higher elevations in the Catskills.

2016 NJ Fall Foliage Report

11/18/16 – Final Report
This weekend… head to the lower third of the state for peak to past peak color, and there are pops of color hanging around throughout central Jersey – but also expect plenty of leaf drop as the season winds down.

Turkey Swamp

11/13/16
South has the best bet for color with areas at peak to past peak. Fall color is lingering in central longer than normal at this time of year but it’s past peak with decent amounts of leaf drop at this point.  Overall, you can probably pops of color in the southern half of the state this week and possibly into next weekend, but that should be about it.

Turkey Swamp Park [Monmouth County] – Past peak and plenty of leaf drop but some trees are full of leaves in vibrant colors still.

11/10/16
This weekend…
Still peak color out there for this weekend. Look to the lower half of the state – some central, and across the southern third of Jersey. Further out… Southeast PA, and Delaware and Maryland are also at peak.

Expect leaf drop mixed in with bright color. It’s not going to last much longer so get out there and enjoy!

11/6/16
We’re getting a little extended bonus this year – still plenty of color across central and southern NJ. Color in the south third likely good thru next weekend.

Manasquan Reservoir
  • Central and southern New Jersey: high to peak color, with varying degrees of leaf drop.
  • Northern third is past peak.
  • In general, seeing more leafless trees around water; stick to forested trails for the best results.

Manasquan Reservoir [Monmouth County] – Peak color. Less leaf drop on trail sections away from the water, with more drop along the water’s edge.

Belleplain SF

11/5/16

  • Turnpike S from around exit 7 to 3 and Rt 55 S – High to peak color
  • Belleplain SF [Cape May County] – High to peak color

11/3/16
This weekend and into next week…

  • Peak color can be found across central NJ, and towards the coastal areas.
  • High to peak color for the southern third of the state .
  • In all areas, expect a mix of color, leaf drop, and even some green.

Just outside of NJ…

  • Lower elevation areas of Southern PA (that borders NJ; possibly around French Creek park) at peak.
  • Long Island NY should see peak color this weekend.

10/31/16… Expect to find a mix of beautiful fall high to peak color, unchanged green leaves, and trees with leaf drop – all in the same area.

Cheesequake Fall

Because of this, color in central Jersey may linger into the first and second week of November in areas that would normally go past peak. South is moderate color. Better chance of color seems to be within forest and away from open areas subject to wind.

  • 10/31/16 – Wickecheoke Creek Preserve [Hunterdon County] – Peak color. [Report via Michael H.].
  • 10/30/16 – Belleplain State Forest [Cumberland/Cape May County] – Moderate to high color along the water, with about 50% unchanged green [Report via Tracy B.].
  • 10/30/16 – Cheesequake State Park [Middlesex County] – High to peak color, not as much green. Leaf drop.
  • 10/29/16 – Jockey Hollow at Morristown NP [Morris County] – High to peak color mixed with green and leaf drop. Rt 287 corridor was muted, but once off the highway the color improves.
  • 10/28/16 – Merrill Creek Reservoir [Warren County] – was a mixed bag – evenly divided between color, green, and leaf drop. Rt. 78 west from Rt 287 had muted color and leaf drop.
Jockey Hollow

10/27/16
This weekend and into next week…
Rain and chilly weather this week has kicked up the color and caused leaf drop, but color can be found across the state:

  • Look for high to peak color spreading central and south this weekend, and possibly the next.
  • South Jersey should see color into November.
  • Northwest Jersey is past peak and leaves are dropping (High Point/Stokes and Wallkill River area likely past peak color).
Merrill Creek

Just outside of NJ…

  • Southern PA (that borders NJ from around Rt 78 on southwest) should see peak color this weekend.
  • North-central PA Poconos region (along the northwest border of NJ) and Harriman/Bear Mountain just over the border into NY are past peak.

10/24/16

The wind and rain on Saturday caused some leaf drop in northwest NJ, and moved some areas past peak. High to peak colors should move down toward central Jersey over the coming week.

Wallkill River NWR [Sussex County] – Color is peak to past peak with some leaf drop.

Wallkill River

Parvin State Park [Salem County] – Color is moderate across southern New Jersey and will likely peak the first week or two of November. With less drought conditions, the color may be more pronounced than in the north.

Parvin

10/21/16
This weekend and into next week…
Color has spread across New Jersey. Peak to high color can be found in northwest New Jersey (High Point, Stokes, Wawayanda, Kittatinny Valley, Paulinskill/Sussex Branch, Norvin, Splitrock Reservoir, Bearfort Ridge). The rest of New Jersey is moderate with some spots of high color.

Nice weather forecast for Sunday. On Saturday, try heading south to avoid rain in the north half of the state (potentials: Rancocas, Black Run, Franklin Parker, Parvins)…

Just outside of NJ… Peak color can be found in North-central PA Poconos region (along the northwest border of NJ). Peak to high color at Harriman/Bear Mountain just over the border into NY, while a little north of that it’s peak to just past peak for Hudson Valley (Shawangunks region).

Further out… the Adirondacks and Catskills in New York are past peak.

Great Swamp

10/16/16

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge [Morris County] – Moderate to high color in the area; with high color at the edge of wet areas. Rt. 287 N corridor from New Brunswick showing moderate to high color.

10/15/16
Chilly overnight temps kicked the foliage into gear across north and into central New Jersey. Moderate to high fall color at Kittatinny Valley State Park [Sussex County] and surrounding areas as well as Rt 206 N from Rt 287. Low color change in the southern third of the state.

Kittatinny Valley State Park

Best bets: High Point, Stokes, Wawayanda, Kittatinny Valley, Paulinskill Valley/Sussex Branch biking, Allamuchy, Hacklebarney…

10/14/16
This weekend and into next week…
Look to the northwest section of New Jersey for moderate color change (best bets: High Point, Stokes, possibly to Wawayanda and Norvin). The rest of New Jersey is low color.

Just outside of NJ… High color can be found in North-central PA Poconos region (along the northwest border of NJ) with change of 80-90%. From there across to the Hudson Valley (Shawangunks region) has 80-100% change.

Further out, peak color in the Adirondacks and Catskills in New York.

Tobyhanna Foliage

10/9/16
Tobyhanna State Park, PA – Nice 50-60% color around the lake; less change on the trails. The Poconos area has good opportunities for color this week.

Low to moderate color spreading across the northern part of NJ.

From central Jersey north towards Rt80 at the Delaware Water Gap:

  • Rt 206 around Chester – low color; 10%
  • Rt 80W from 287 – low color; 10-20%
  • Rt 80 into PA, Rt 380 – 20-30%

10/6/16
 This weekend and into next week…
Most of New Jersey is low color. Best chance is north-central PA (along the northwest border of NJ) and over into NY in that area for a color change of about 30-40%. Further out, in New York, the Adirondacks area is near or at peak and the Catskills is near peak.

9/29/16
 This weekend and into next week…
Most of New Jersey is unchanged to low color. Further out, the best chance for some color is likely in the Adirondacks or perhaps Catskills in NY as well as north-central PA (along the northwest border of NJ) which has a color change of 25-30%.

2015 NJ Fall Foliage Report

11/8/15
Thompson Park / Monmouth County – Nice color still on the trees but significant leaf drop as well. While there is still lingering color in central and south Jersey, NJ has passed peak and the color won’t last much longer than this week.

11/6/15
This weekend and into next week…
Peak color can still be found throughout central and southern New Jersey, but expect a decent amount of leaf drop as areas are moving past peak.

Cheesequake S.P.

11/3/15
Cheesequake S.P. / Middlesex County – still plenty of color, but moving past peak with lots of leaf drop.

Unseasonably warm 70 degree weather this week is a bonus opportunity to grab color throughout central and southern NJ. North NJ has pretty much moved past peak.

Baldpate Mountain

10/31/15
Baldpate Mountain and Mercer County in general – Peak color; with some trees having dropped their leaves.

Look for peak conditions throughout central Jersey this week.

10/30/15
This weekend and into next week…
Look for high to peak color across central, south, and northeast (along Hudson River) – suggestions: Sourlands, Washington Crossing, Cheesequake, Palisades, Parvin.

The northern third of the state is still experiencing peak color, but the northwest corner (High Point, Stokes, DWG and the nearby areas into PA/NY) is moving past peak.

Just outside of NJ… Peak color still found Harriman/Bear Mtn/Sterling SF, and the Hudson Valley NY area. High color found in southeastern PA (area southwest of Philly and east of the NJ border).

Wyanokie High Point - Norvin Green

10/26/15
Norvin Green S.F. – Wyanokie High Point and Carris Hill: Peak color

10/24/15
Ringwood S.P. – Skylands Manor – Ilgenstein Rock/Erskine Lookout: Peak color, with leaf drop happening

10/23/15
Great fall color for the next couple of weeks – go out and grab it!
This weekend and into next week…
Peak color found in the northwest corner of the state (High Point, Stokes, DWG) and the nearby areas into PA/NY, with some areas in the very NW experiencing leaf drop and past peak color. The rest of the northern third of the state is moderate to high while central/south New Jersey is showing moderate color, 50-60%.

Just outside of NJ… Peak color should be found Harriman/Bear Mtn/Sterling SF, the Hudson Valley NY area, and in north-central PA (Poconos/along the northwest border of NJ).

Stairway to Heaven: Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista

10/19/15
Northwestern corner of the state is at peak, with some areas moving past peak with leaf drop. High color spreading across northern NJ, with moderate for the rest of the state.

–Stairway to Heaven – Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista: High color
–Stokes S.F. – Tillman Ravine: Peak color, decent amounts of leaf drop in some areas
–Del. Water Gap – Van Campens Glen: High to peak color

IMG_0034

From central Jersey north into Sussex and Warren counties:
-Rt 287 New Brunswick – Rt 80: moderate 30-40%, still some green
-Rt 80W from 287 – Moderate 40-50%, rusts with green still
-Rt 15 to Rt 206 through Sussex County: Moderate to high
-Rt 23 to Rt 94 through Sussex County: Moderate to high

10/16/15
This weekend and into next week… High color found in the northwest corner of the state (High Point, Stokes) and the nearby areas into PA/NY. The rest of New Jersey is moderate color, 30-40%, with pops of high color near water.

Just outside of NJ… high to peak color should be found in Sterling SF and Harriman/Bear Mtn, Hudson Valley NY area, and in north-central PA (Poconos/along the northwest border of NJ).

Further out… Peak color in Catskills/Adirondacks in NY, central PA.

IMG_0007

10/12/15
From central Jersey north into New York:
-GSP from ~Exit 130 to NY Border – Low, 30%
-New York Thruway to Rt 17 thru Tuxedo – Moderate, 30%-50%
-Harriman State Park – Lemon Squeezer from Elk Pen – Moderate, with some high color around Island Pond and low, wet areas.

Maurice River Bluffs

10/10/15

From central Jersey south into Cumberland County:
-Turnpike Exit 9 – Exit 3: Low, 20-30%
-Rt. 55 – Deptford thru Millville: Low, 20-30%
-Maurice River Bluffs – Low, but pops of moderate to high color at water’s edge

10/9/15
This weekend and into next week…
Weather changes this week have kicked all of NJ into at least low color, with the northwestern corner of the state showing moderate with some high color.  Best options… High Point, Stokes, or anything either side of the Delaware River down to where Rt 80 heads into PA (like Mt. Tammany or Mt. Minsi).

Just outside of NJ… moderate to high color should be found in Hudson Valley NY area or in north-central PA (Poconos/along the northwest border of NJ). Sterling SF, and Harriman/Bear Mtn are also possibilities. Further out… High to peak color found in Catskills/Adirondacks in NY.

IMG_4268

10/5/15
Sunrise Mountain – Stokes S.F. [Sussex County]
Still low color in the northwest corner of the state, and low to no change elsewhere. Decent amount of leaf drop at Stokes – the winds this weekend didn’t help. Foliage is running a little behind this year, after a warmer than normal September.

Rt. 287 corridor north from New Brunswick – barely any color.
Rt. 206 corridor thru Chester – low color, mostly yellows.
Rt. 206 corridor thru Andover – low color with pockets of moderate. Mostly yellows but some pops of reds.

10/2/15
This weekend and into next week…
Color is getting a slow start this season, but should be picking up with the cooler temps. Most of New Jersey is unchanged to low color. Best chance for color is likely some low color in northwest NJ (Such as High Point, Stokes SF, along the Kittatinny Mtns).

Further out, the Catskills/Adirondacks in NY has more color, and north-east and north-central PA (along the northwest border of NJ) has a range of 20-40% color.

IMG_4239

9/12/15
Bear Mountain S.P. – New York – West Mountain, The Timp, Bald Mountain
Some early foliage here and there, some leaf drop.

9/5/15
Stonetown Circular Trail – Norvin Green/Long Pond Ironworks SP [Passaic County]
A little early foliage, likely from trees stressed by lack of rain.

2014 NJ Fall Foliage Report

––Photos in our NJ Fall Foliage 2014 forum.

11/15/14
Sourland Mountain, Somerset County – some lingering color. While the color this year seemed to get an early start, it seems to be hanging on a bit later than usual around central and southern NJ.

11/13/14
The last color of this season can be found around central and southern New Jersey, and possibly the Palisades.

11/6/14
This weekend and into next week… head to central and southern New Jersey, southeastern PA and possibly Long Island. There is still color out there despite all the leaf drop… but we’re nearing the end of the season so go get it!
Potential areas for color… Baldpate Mountain, Sourlands, Cheesequake, Rancocas, Manasquan Reservoir, Maurice River Bluffs) or south eastern PA’; or further out… head into Delaware or Maryland for some color.

11/3/14
Parvin State Park
Heavy rains and wind has taken a toll even in southern NJ. A considerable amount of leaf drop has dulled the colors but there are still pockets of good color to be found.

Central NJ is moving past peak but still has good color found throughout areas of leaf drop. Color seemed to boost around exit 4.

10/30/14
This weekend and into next week… for high to peak color head to central and southern NJ (i.e Baldpate Mountain, Sourlands, Cheesequake, Rancocas, Manasquan Res, Parvin, Maurice River Bluffs) or south eastern PA.
Past-peak color in northwestern corner of NJ (High Point, Stokes); peak color to moving past in northern NJ (Water Gap, Pyramid Mountain) and Harriman/Bear Mtn) over the border in N.Y.

10/26/14
Norvin Green State Forest – Osio Rock, Torne Mountain, Lake Lerriwein
North NJ, Highlands region; Bloomington, NJ; Passaic County
Nice high to peak color with a smattering of green. Plenty of leaf drop (30-40%) from the winds this week. The color here might hold thru to next weekend but hurry!

10/24/14
This weekend and into next week… Peak to past-peak color in the northwestern corner of NJ (High Point, Stokes); peak color in northern NJ (Water Gap, Pyramid Mountain). Central (Baldpate Mountain, Sourlands, Cheesequake) is high with some areas of peak color. Southern NJ (Rancocas, Wharton) is moderate, while south, south NJ (Cumberland County and south) is low. This week’s rain and wind this weekend may increase the leaf drop across the state.
Over the border… in NY (Harriman/Bear Mtn) and southern eastern PA is at peak.

10/16/14
This weekend and into next week… peaking color in northwestern corner of NJ (High Point, Stokes); high color in northern NJ (Water Gap, Pyramid Mountain). Central is seeing moderate color (Baldpate Mountain, Sourlands), while southern NJ is low to moderate (Parvin S.P.) Over the border in NY Harriman/Bear Mtn) is high to peak color.

10/9/14
This weekend and into next week…. high or peaking color in northwestern corner of NJ (High Point, Stokes); moderate-high color in northern NJ (Water Gap, Pyramid Mountain). Low-moderate color the rest of the state.

Over the border… in NY (Harriman/Bear Mtn) likely starting to hit peak color; look for high color in central-east PA (Mt. Minsi)
Further out… Higher sections of the Adirondacks and Catskills are past peak with lower areas at peak; Northeastern PA is at peak.

10/5/14
High Point State Park, Sussex County – High color (70-80%) found within the park. This coming weekend likely to see peak color. [report via NJ HIKING]


Around NJ…
Rt. 287 Corridor from New Brunswick to Rt 80: Low, 10% or less
Rt 206 through Chester to Rt. 80: Low, 10% with areas of moderate color
Rt. 206 through Newton: Moderate, 50-60%
Rt 15 – Moderate 40-60% with spots of high color

10/2/14
Look for moderate-high color in the higher elevations of north and northwest New Jersey this coming weekend. Over the border in NY (Hariman/Bear Mtn) likely seeing moderate color. Further out… NY’s Adirondacks & Catskills at peak and near-peak this weekend; and NE PA should be high color.

9/29/14
Fall color seems to running a bit ahead of schedule this year. Good color can already be found in higher elevations in north NJ (Highlands and NE edge of NJ), as well as over the borders into NY/PA. Further north into NY (Catskills, Adirondacks) and PA (NE of the NJ border), the conditions are closer to peak or at peak.

9/20/14 – 9/21/14
Bear Creek Preserve, Poconos, PA
Some nice color starting in the Poconos. Delaware Water Gap is still pretty green, just a little bit of color here and there all along I-80. [report via Gone Hikin’]

Cheesequake State Park, Matawan
We didn’t expect any color in central Jersey, but encountered some slight coloring appearing at water’s edge. [report via NJ HIKING]

9/14/14
Wildcat Ridge – Four Birds Trail / Splitrock Reservoir
Unexpected amounts of leaf drop and yellow leaves along Four Birds trail, and some slight color around the edge of Splitrock Reservoir. But not much of any change from the Hawk Watch. [report via NJ HIKING]

9/7/14
Minnewaska State Park, NY
More color than I expected to see in the Gunks; along High Peter’s Kill Trail. [report via Gone Hikin’]

8/24/14
Ramapo Mountains
Just starting to notice a hint of color in some trees in the Ramapos. [report via Brian S.]

2013 NJ Fall Foliage Report

––Photos in our NJ Fall Foliage 2013 forum.

Current (11/12): Color is at peak color this week for some central areas still as well as southern NJ, but the foliage season in Jersey will likely be wrapping up this weekend.

11/4/13
Palisades Interstate Park – Spectacular color! Lots of leaf drop but that is as colorful as the trees. [report via Gone Hikin’]

11/3/13
Cheesequake State Park – Peak color, with 70% leaf drop
Rt. 18 thru Matawan – Peak color [report via NJ HIKING]

Stokes State Forest – Along the Blue Mountain and Silver Mine Trails, still some small patches of color. [report via Brom V.]

11/2/13
Round Valley Reservoir – Peak color, with 50-60% leaf drop
In general, color is at peak across central NJ and into southeastern PA [report via NJ HIKING]

10/29/13
Southern NJ/Millville area – still mostly green but now with pops of color. [reports via Tracy B.]

10/25/13
Ramapo Mountain State Forest – Peak color to past peak; 70% leaf drop
Rt 287 N, Morristown area to exit 57 – Mix of moderate to high color, 50% leaf drop [report via NJ HIKING]

10/24/13
The Pinnacle and the Pulpit – The Appalachian Trail in Hamburg, PA – High to Peak color, with 30% leaf drop
Rt 78 W, from Rt 287 to Round Valley area – Moderate to high color, 20% leaf drop
Rt 78 W, from Round Valley area to Hamburg, PA – High to peak color, 30% leaf drop [report via NJ HIKING]

10/20/13
High Point State Park – Peak to past peak, 50% leaf drop.
Rt 23 on the way to High Point – Mostly past peak.
Rt. 206 through Chester – moderate to high color, 20% leaf drop.
Rt 287 on the way to Chester – moderate, still a decent amount of green. [reports via NJ HIKING]

Swartswood State Park – Show’s over. About 90% leaf drop. [report via Gone Hikin’]

10/19/13
Central NJ, Rt 18 and Rt 520 into Red Bank – moderate to high color appearing [report via NJ HIKING]

Hammonton near Batsto – low color, starting to turn
Southern NJ/Millville area – low color [reports via Tracy B.]

10/18/13
Van Campen’s Glen – Not much color, lots of leaves down. [reports via Brom V.]

Black Rock Forest, NY – There is some great color in Black Rock Forest right now, the nicest I have seen this year. Lots of bright yellow, peach and orange. There are still sections of mostly green trees here and there but also a lot of leaf drop. I would say color change is about 60 – 70%. [report via Gone Hikin’]

10/14/13
Norvin Green State Forest – Color varied a bit through the area but on average I’d call it Medium since there was still a decent amount of green left on some trees. Starting from Weis ecology center and looped around via Otter hole. [report via Eric B.]

10/13/13
Sterling Forest, NY – High color, with leaf drop that seemed more than normal (likely due to recent rains). [report via NJ HIKING]

Rt. 17 in Mahwah; Garden State Parkway Paramus area – Moderate color change, still large sections of green. [report via NJ HIKING]

High Point State Park – Found the foliage to be somewhat disappointing. I think a lot of the color was lost in the rain and wind storm on Monday, 10/7. There was a lot of leaf drop and most of the remaining color was brown/drab yellow. There were still some spots of color, just not as much as expected. [report via Gone Hikin’]

10/6/13
Sussex County / Kittatinny Ridge / Little Swartswood Lake – Low towards Moderate Colors. Not peak yet, but leaves coming down & nice photogenic colors definitely happening. [report via T.J. K.]

Norvin Green State Forest – Lake Sonoma and Manaticut Point
Moderate color change, still some green, and decent amount of leaf drop. [report via NJ HIKING]

Route 287 corridor from Rt 78 to Wanaque – low to moderate color change. [report via NJ HIKING]

10/3/13
Harriman State Park, NY along I 87
Starting to look colorful. Low to moderate color.

Catskill Park, NY – Balsam Mountain and Belleayre Mountain
It’s just starting to peak in Catskills. Still lots of green in the forest with color in the canopy. [reports via Gone Hikin’]

10/1/13 – NJH Road Trip report:
Maine: Acadia National Park … Low.
Maine: 95 South … low to moderate
Massachusetts/Cape Cod … none to low
Connecticut/New York: Rt. 95 corridor … none to low
New Jersey: Parkway from NY border to Central NJ … none to low

09/29/13 – Long Pond Ironworks State Park – Monksville Reservoir
Low – moderate color change. [report via Gone Hikin’]

09/28/13 – Round Valley Reservoir
Low color. [report via T.J. K.]

09/25/13 – Sussex County
The maples are starting to turn. [report via Paul]

9/8/13 – Cheesequake State Park
Slight pops of mild color. [report via NJ HIKING]

9/7/13 – Boonton area
Some color change starting already. [report via Bob S.]

9/6/13 – Sterling Forest State Park, NY – Wildcat Mountain
In just a few places, some leaves starting to change on a tree here and there. [report via Gone Hikin’]

2012 NJ Fall Foliage Report Archive

––Photos and reports posted in our Fall Foliage in New Jersey – 2012 forum.

10/29/12 – Hurricane Sandy will likely put an abrupt end to the foliage season in New Jersey and the surrounding areas.

10/27/12
Hacklebarney State Park – Peak to past-peak color, with significant leaf drop.

Route 287 and 206 corridor from New Brunswick to Chester – also at peak to past-peak. [Reports via NJ HIKING]

10/25/12
Henry Hudson Trail South (Aberdeen to Marlboro) – Peak color, lots of leaf drop. [Report via Daniela W.]

10/24/12
Jenny Jump S.P. is great right now. Great deals on cabin overnights. Allamuchy = nice foliage, streamside pink sumac. [Report via Dan L.]

10/21/12
Terrace Pond, Wawayanda S.P: High to peak color on the trails, with a good amount of leaf cover on the trail itself. Peak to past-peak color from the viewpoint and at the pond area.

Route 287 corridor from New Brunswick to West Milford: High color

Maurice River Bluffs/Southern New Jersey: It seems that the rain on Friday really pushed the color changing along and things seemed a lot more colorful this weekend then they had been. MaysLanding/Ocean City area seemed a lot further ahead in terms of changing color.

Turnpike from exit 8A – 6: High color, 50-60% changed; from 6 – 3: Moderate – high, 40-50% color change. [Reports via NJ HIKING]

Delaware Water Gap – Mt. Tammany: Anything out I-80 was peak and stunning today (Allamuchy, Jenny Jump). Mt. Tammany is past peak and there is a lot of leaf drop but Dunnfield Creek still has some green. Views from Mt. Tammany are at peak. [Report via Daniela W.]

Sussex Branch Trail in Allamuchy Mtn State Park: Beautiful lake reflections and mountains that look like lollipop flavors. [Report via Dan L.]

10/14/12
Sunrise Mountain, Stokes State Forest: High color to approaching peak, though there is still a good amount of green. As in recent years, the color isn’t turning all at once for a somewhat mixed result at viewpoints. On the trails, a moderate amount of leaf drop. [Report via NJ HIKING]

Route 287 and 206 corridor from New Brunswick to Stokes:

  • Route 287 in New Brunswick to Route 206: low color change, 20-30%.
  • Route 206 through the Chester area, mixed green with 30-40% change.
  • Route 206 through Andover, moderate, 40%
  • Route 206 near Lake Owassa and approaching the park: 40-50%

10/8/2012

Catskills, NY Platte Clove to Overlook Mountain – Peaking now, or past peak depending on the elevation. Harriman/ Sterling was becoming colorful driving by up I-87 [Report via Daniela W.]

10/6/12
Watchung Reservation: Color was minimal with many early, dried-out leaves falling. These leaves were ‘golden’, but only so because of leaf scortch due to lack of adequate rains this summer. [Report via Linda F.]

Route 1/295/55, and Route 54 in Buena to 206 to Bordentown: Slight blush of low, mild color. [Report via NJ HIKING]

10/2/12
Stokes State Forest: The AT in Stokes is still mostly green. Just a few touches of color looking west from the peaks. A few more days and the colors will start to come out. [Report via Paul]

9/30/12
Sourland Mountain Preserve – color change has begun. [Report via Linda F.]

Cushetunk Mountain Nature Preserve and Round Valley Reservoir: Some color on the north side of Cushetunk Mountain in the preserve, with color starting on the other side of the mountain around Round Valley Reservoir. [Report via Daniela W.]

Wildcat Ridge WMA and the Hawkwatch in Morris County; Rt 287 corridor from New Brunswick to Rt 80: Low color change with mostly green, some pops of vibrant yellow and red. Some leaf drop along the trails. [Report via NJ HIKING]

9/23/12
Lehigh Gap Nature Center in Palmerton, Pa.: Smattering of color, llittle punches of deep ruby and a splotch of burnt orange-tinged leaves here and there dotting nearby hillsides. [Report via Linda F.]

2011 NJ Fall Foliage Report Archive

––Photos and reports posted in our Fall Foliage in New Jersey – 2011 forum.

11/13/11 – New Jersey is past peak but there are trees with color still, mostly from central to southern NJ.

11/6/11 – Green Lane Park, Montgomery County, PA. – 50% peak, 50% past/leaf drop. Most of the color was found in the woods on the trails, while areas in the open like along water or the roads were past peak or dropped entirely.

New Jersey Turnpike south and southeastern PA along the PA Turnpike still had nice color. The color faded and leaves dropped the further west we traveled along the PA pike.

10/30/11 – High color can still be found in central and southern NJ. North is mostly past peak, with some peak areas. Plus, the storm knocked a lot of leaves down early in all areas.

10/23/11
Bearfort Ridge: Surprise Lake, State Line Trail/Ernest Walter, AT North into NY – Peak color to just past peak; mostly nice yellows/golds but also some leaf drop/bare trees.

Stokes State Forest – It was a mixed bag. Where the Appalachian Trail runs along the ridge (Culvers Gap to Brink Road) between 90 – 100% leaf drop, then the lone, random, just-starting-to-turn tree. At lower elevations like Shay Road, Dimon Road, Stoll Trail, just past peak. Lots of leaf drop but also many leaves still hanging on but not for long. [Report via Gone Hikin’]

Wildcat Ridge WMA, Four Birds Trail southern section. Leaves at or post peak, lots of leaves down already. [Report via TJ K.]

Audubon trails in Sparta near the Ogdensburg line – Foliage was beautiful, but clearly just at or slightly past peak. [report via Ted D.]

10/20/11
Poconos, PA – Peak, if not slightly past peak foliage. [report via Jennifer P.]

10/16/11
French Creek & Ridley Creek in PA. Not quite peak, but enough contrast to provide some beautiful color. Lots of yellows/golds. [report via Linda F.]

Buttermilk Falls and Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: moderate to high color [report via Ted D.]

Norvin Green – Hewitt Butler Trail South to Osio Rock Loop. Low to Moderate Color. [report via TJ K.]

10/15/11
Jenny Jump State Park – Moderate color with mostly yellow and rust orange, still somewhat muted. Still a lot of green, but also a decent amount of leaf drop. Improving color on routes 287N, RT 206N and 80W on the way to the Gap area.

10/10/11
Ramapo Valley County Reservation area. Decent color at around 50% changed.

Catskills, NY – Great color, peaking. [both reports via Gone Hikin’]

10/9/11 –
Mt. Minsi, Delaware Water Gap, PA side. Low to moderate color, with a lot of green still. Rt. 80, and Rt. 206 through Chester low color, a lot of green but also trees with leaf drop. Colors generally muted and not vibrant.

Wawayanda State Park – low to moderate color. [via photo from GetOutsideNJ]

2010 NJ Fall Foliage Report Archive

––Photos and reports posted in our Fall Foliage in New Jersey – 2010 forum.

11/14/10 – Harriman State Park, NY. Still some fading color, decent
amount of leaf drop. Some color along the Parkway heading north.

11/6/10 – Southern New Jersey still has peak color, with about 30% leaf drop. (Turnpike south from 8A down, into Cumberland County -Vineland/Millville)

11/5/10 – Apshawa Preserve, West Milford: pops of color but mostly fading, 70% leaf drop. Along the 287 corridor: mostly fading oranges and reds, 60-70% leaf drop.

10/31/10 – Cooper Mill/Black River in Chester Twp: brilliant peak color mixed with about 60% leaf drop.

10/24/10 – Most of New Jersey is now at peak or almost peak color.

10/23/10 – Delaware Water Gap, Mt. Tammany, Sunfish Pond: high to peak color mixed with some leaf drop and green leaves. Rt. 206 corridor through Chester has some nice high to peak color, but also bare trees in areas. Peak color is appearing throughout southern Jersey as well (reported from Cumberland County).

10/17/10 – Delaware Water Gap, Mt. Tammany: Mix of moderate to high color change viewing the mountains, but also still some just turning or still green; mainly yellows inside the trails but also some leaf drop due to the wind on Saturday.

10/16/10 – Moderate color in central Jersey at Cheesequake State Park, Matawan.

10/13/10 – Some low color change spotted in the Apshawa Preserve, West Milford. In southern Jersey, some color pops spotted in the Edwin B. Forsythe NWR.

10/10/10 – Low to moderate color change at Ramapo Mountain State Forest, and along route 287 from New Brunswick north to the park.

In NY, Minnewaska has high color, and should be at peak next weekend.

10/08/10 – Cheesequake State Park, Matawan. Some pops of color amid mostly
green.

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