Maryland fall foliage forecast: Colors surpass peak across most areas of the state
Fall foliage colors across most of Maryland are now past their peak as temperatures dip to their lowest levels of the season.
One of the last places for changing colors is Assateague Island and the surrounding area, according to the latest update from Maryland's Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
"Our foresters and rangers have reported stunning wildflowers, changing leaves and sprouting mushrooms this season, capturing and sharing the visual bounty of Maryland's natural resources," DNR said.
Even though the leaves in many areas have already past their peak, it can still be worthwhile to head out on foliage excursions.
"Just because it is past peak doesn't mean there is nothing to see," DNR said. "Leaves are still vibrant in spots. Even when they have fallen, they can be beautiful. And crunchy."
When does fall foliage peak in Maryland?
Maryland's annual burst of fall colors was expected to peak from north to south through October and into early November.
The DNR predicted a near-average foliage season this year. The ongoing drought, followed by rain and wind from a passing nor'easter, has impacted the season a bit.
Ideal conditions for the colors to explode include mild and sunny days and chilly nights.
The leaves really began to pop across central Maryland, the Baltimore metro and parts of the Eastern Shore during these first couple of weeks of October.
Looking back at previous years, fall color usually peaks between the last week of October and first week of November across the greater Baltimore area.
Maryland foliage tracker
Here is the latest Fall Foliage report from Maryland's DNR. For a broader look at leaf conditions across the country, you can also check out this fall foliage map.
Some of the best places to see brilliant leaf color in the Baltimore region include Patapsco Valley State Park, Loch Raven Reservoir, Gunpowder Falls State Park, Oregon Ridge State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park. However, brilliant blasts of color can be seen in and around Baltimore City as well.