(AUGUSTA, Maine) —As the vibrant colors of autumn begin to emerge, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is excited to announce the official start of the 2024 foliage season, tracked and reported by DACF Fall Foliage Spokesperson Gale Ross.

Since 1959, when Commissioner of Forestry Austin Wilkins initiated the first weekly foliage reports, Maine has captivated visitors and locals with its outstanding autumn beauty. Now 65 years strong, this tradition continues to draw leaf peepers from near and far, enhancing their experience with detailed, timely updates.

“This summer was one for the record books! We had an abundance of daily sunshine with just the right amount of rainfall has set the stage for a breathtaking foliage season,” said Ross. “However, I’d like to remind fall foliage enthusiasts that the color change and timing depends on the weather going forward. The cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days enhance the progression of color,” added Ross.

Aaron Bergdahl, forest pathologist with DACF, states, “The growing season of 2024 has been excellent for trees, supporting tree health and resilience that should lead to brilliant fall colors throughout Maine.”

Typically, northern Maine (zones 6 and 7) reach peak conditions the last week of September into the first week of October. The rest of the state’s color progression starts occurring from north to south in mid-October. Coastal Maine typically reaches peak conditions in mid-to-late October. 

Follow the 2024 Maine fall foliage forecast this season and take advantage of autumn events, activities and tips for colorful road trips throughout Maine:

• Beginning tomorrow, the Camden International Film Festival, takes center stage in Camden and Rockland, showcasing groundbreaking documentaries and global filmmakers. With events spanning the weekend and an online program running September 16-30, it’s a must-see for film buffs.
• One of New England’s largest car shows, the 30^th Annual Old Orchard Beach Car Show, takes place this Friday and Saturday. This two-day show features cars in many different categories and classes, closing with an awards presentation on Saturday afternoon. With sunny weather expected throughout the week, this is an ideal opportunity to add another late summer beach day.
• September marks the start of the beloved harvest activity of pick-your-own apples at Maine orchards. Check Real Maine for nearby orchards, many offering family fun activities from corn mazes to wagon rides, and for adults, other local harvest agricultural products and hard cider.
• With the progression of fall foliage color starting in the north and working its way down the state, those in search of earliest foliage views, pack the car for a road trip to “the crown of Maine,” also known as Aroostook County. Check out the Million Dollar View Scenic Byway, perfectly named for its panoramic views with open fields and lakes along Route 1. Spot views of Maine’s tallest peak, Katahdin, and keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife including moose, loons and eagles, and scenic turnouts. Venture farther north in The County for more picturesque landscapes, and historical and cultural landmarks and locations along the The St. John Valley/Fish River National Scenic Byway.