Celebrate autumn in Minnesota with DNR’s 2026 foliage predictions, Fall Color Finder map, weekly newsletter and more
Shorter days and cooler night air mean that fall color will soon arrive in Minnesota. To kick off this colorful season, this week the Minnesota Department of Resources launches its celebration of all things autumn with its 2026 color forecast, popular Fall Color Finder webpage, weekly fall color newsletter, and tips for enjoying the foliage to the fullest.
“Autumn is a perfect time to experience the beauty of Minnesota’s public lands,” said Sarah Strommen, DNR commissioner. “Wherever you go in the state, there are so many amazing views to take in, like bronze prairie grasses in the southwest, golden tamarack needles up north, and deep red maples and a range of fall wildflower colors throughout the state. Whatever outdoor recreation you enjoy — hiking, camping, fishing, paddling, hunting — I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy Minnesota this fall.”
"Fall may be Minnesota's most underrated travel season and more visitors are discovering that every year," said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota. "Cooler temperatures, brilliant color and a packed calendar of festivals make late September through mid-October a wonderful time to plan a trip. That's good news for tourism businesses across the state, many of which now count on fall to carry momentum well past the summer season. Whether it's a scenic drive along the North Shore, a weekend in a small town or a hike through a state park, we encourage everyone to get out and explore Minnesota this fall."
Factors affecting 2026 fall colors
Many factors influence the timing and vibrance of fall colors. The strongest are day length and dropping temperatures. Other factors, like the current drought throughout much of Minnesota, have a more subtle impact.
“Severe drought can lessen the brilliance of some colors. It can also cause some trees to drop their leaves or change colors early — or later, depending on the species,” said Brian Schwingle, DNR forest health program consultant. “Likewise, warmer temperatures in September can slightly delay peak color, like during the 2023 drought year.”
Fall colors in Minnesota typically peak from late September through mid-October, starting in the far northwest and north-central parts of the state and working toward the southeast region. Peak fall color usually lasts about one week in each area but can vary widely depending on location and weather.
Fall Color Finder, weekly Fall Color Update newsletter
The first edition of DNR’s popular weekly fall color reports will go live Thursday, Sept. 10 on the Fall Color Finder webpage. Updated every Thursday through the end of October, the Fall Color Finder allows the public to track the progression of color change across Minnesota with color-coded maps and leaf reporting from individual Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.
A date slider allows viewers to see what typical colors are like across the state on a certain date based on past years’ data.
Leaf-peeping enthusiasts can sign up for DNR’s weekly Fall Color Update newsletter, featuring the latest color maps as well as inspiration and tips to get out and enjoy the changing leaves. To subscribe, visit Fall Color Finder webpage.
The public can also share their favorite fall photos at Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for possible use on the Fall Color Finder photo gallery, DNR social media channels and other materials. Click “share photos” at the Fall Color Finder webpage to submit images.
Tips to maximize fall color enjoyment
Consult a fall color guide
Explore Minnesota's fall color guides can help travelers plan where to go. The statewide roundup of the best places to see fall colors highlights destinations in every corner of Minnesota, from the quartzite cliffs at Blue Mounds State Park and the bluffs above the Mississippi River in Winona and Red Wing to chairlift rides at Detroit Mountain and Giants Ridge, fire tower views in Pequot Lakes and St. Croix State Park, and scenic drives through Maplewood State Park and the Minnesota River Valley. A companion guide to Minnesota's iconic North Shore maps out a road trip starting in Duluth and working up the Lake Superior shoreline through small towns, foliage and fall art tours.
Check updates before heading out
Before leaving home, be sure to check the visitor alert for the state park or recreation area for seasonal updates, closures, construction impacts and more. Always check the local weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
Plan for crowds
Fall weekends are busy at Minnesota state parks! If people are able, they should consider a weekday trip for a quieter experience. Save time by buying a state park vehicle permit before leaving home. Arrive early for the best parking options, as parking lots can fill up quickly.
Book overnight trips early
Fall is a great time to camp, with cool but comfortable nights and fewer bugs. Fall weekends can be very popular with campers, so book reservations as soon as possible. To check campsite availability and book a site, visit the DNR reservations website.
First-come, first-served campsites in state forest campgrounds are also great options that allow for a spur-of-the-moment fall overnight trip. Book a same-day reservation at a state forest campground on the Yodel website.
Check the parks and trails events calendar for fall events
Many state parks offer programs where visitors can learn about the natural world, take guided hikes, build outdoor skills and more. Most programs are free. Head to the state parks calendar for a full listing of fall events and programs.
A few upcoming fall-themed programs around the state:
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