Peak Color for October 21-27, 2022
The kaleidoscope of fall colors is nearing another sunset. But there’s still a multitude of ways to experience this natural phenomenon. Scenic drives abound along arbor-lined country roads, golf courses, nature preserves and roadside farm markets. Cider mills, wineries and breweries are bustling with colorful activities.
Here’s the color update as reported by local communities around the state for October 21-28, 2022:
Upper Peninsula
Most of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is at or near peak, but there’re still some electric colors weaving throughout the region. Though many of the crimson red maples have dropped their leaves in Dickinson County, there are still pockets of red and gold maples hanging on. The aspens are in full display of brilliant yellow and gold; however, the winds are blowing hard, and those leaves may not last. The oak trees are still coming into color in many places. Dickinson County is illuminated with many beautiful spots of color, especially in and around Iron Mountain, Norway and Felch.
Peak season is coming to an end in Marquette County, but visitors to the area this weekend will find stunning color along the lakeshore around Presque Isle Park. Most areas in the Keweenaw are past peak. Last week’s wintry dusting produced pristine white snow, which is now mixed with the remaining foliage. Although peak has passed, Delta County is still showcasing vibrantly colored leaves, everywhere you look.
Lower Peninsula
Locals are reporting most communities in the northern Lower Peninsula are about one week away from peak conditions this coming weekend, with some at peak now. The Indian River area's oaks and maples are bursting with colors; the vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange are breathtaking! Locals recommend a drive around Burt or Mullett lakes to see the colors set against a stunning backdrop of three lakes.
The hills around Traverse City are filled with excellent color right now. With rain and winds in the forecast, leaf peepers are encouraged to visit soon as this spectacular scenery will transition quickly. Don't let the rain hold you back—dress appropriately and you can walk through amazing colors and watch the majesty of seasonal change at the same time.
Approaching the weekend, most central Michigan communities are one-to-two weeks from peak color, with a few destinations displaying prime color now. Cruising through Oceana County, visitors will see peak color along Lake Michigan and driving along B-15 north and south.
Downtown Frankenmuth has an extravagant display of fall color. The charming town is near peak, so you’ll want to visit soon to catch a glimpse of the dazzling show. Enjoy the brilliant shades of yellow, orange and red throughout the entire three-county region of Saginaw, Midland and Bay City. You’ll find outstanding fall scenery on a drive through the local communities with tree-lined streets, or walk along the many riverwalks, parks and trails. Take advantage of seasonal activities like a leisurely hayride, walk-through corn field mazes, finding the perfect pumpkins and the special treat of freshly pressed cider and warm donuts. Plan your travels using the Great Lakes Bay Region's website at GoGreat.com.
It's the perfect time of year to see autumn hues ablaze in southwest Michigan! Enjoy your drive into the countryside and stop to pick up a cornucopia of squash, apples, fall vegetables and fresh cider from local farms. Southwest Michigan towns are reporting to be one-to-two weeks from peak viewing.
Most of southeast Michigan will see peak color in one-to-two more weeks. Although a few areas are a blaze of glory this week with fiery tones of red, auburn and gold that will last through the coming days.
It is peak fall color in the Ann Arbor area! Vibrant yellows, oranges, purples and reds can be seen all around. Ann Arbor is nicknamed “Tree Town” for a reason. The area is filled with dense woodlands and tree-lined streets and is home to 150+ area parks. Some of the favorite spots for leaf peeping include Nichols Arboretum, Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Gallup Park, Rolling Hills County Park (Ypsilanti), Dexter-Huron Metropark (Dexter) and Waterloo Recreation Area (Chelsea).
Pure Michigan Shines the Spotlight on Adventure, Festivals and Tours
Autumn’s best trails and adventures are waiting to be explore by the season’s leaf peepers. Michigan has so many ways to celebrate fall, be sure to take time to check out some of these Pure Michigan recommendations below:
8 Lesser-Known Cider Mills and Orchards Across Michigan
Say Cheers at These 5 Northern Michigan Breweries
Fall Fishing in Michigan: Your Ultimate Guide
Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center
Spooky Heritage Hill Walking Tour
6 Michigan ghost tours to check out this Halloween season
Spectacular and Colorful Fall Events
The excitement of seasonal events continues all year long with Pure Michigan. Get the details with this small sampling of upcoming seasonal events happening over the next week and join the fun. Build your next Michigan fall getaway around one of these celebrations!
Mackinac Island Halloween Weekend
Mackinac Island
October 21-23, 2022
Ghost Ship
Manistee
Now thru October 29, 2022
Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village
Dearborn
Now thru October 30, 2022
Boo-tober Trick-or-treating at GRCM
Grand Rapids
Now thru October 30, 2022
Halloween Stroll at Canterbury Village
Lake Orion
Now thru October 30, 2022
Pumpkins on Parade
Saint Joseph
Now thru October 31, 2022
Ghosts of Grand Rapids Historic Ghost Walking Tour
Grand Rapids
October 22-29, 2022
Gilmore Car Museum's Trunk or Treat
Kalamazoo
October 26, 2022
Haunted Mine Tours
Hancock
October 27-29, 2022
ypsiGLOW 2022
Ypsilanti
October 28, 2022
14th Annual Traverse City Zombie Run
Traverse City
October 29, 2022
Calumet Trunk-Or-Treat
Calumet
October 29, 2022
Doggie Trick-or-Treat 2022
Mason
October 29, 2022