Predicting Peak Fall Color in the North Georgia Mountains

When our long, hot summer finally releases its grip to make way for the crisp, cooler temperatures of autumn, the North Georgia mountains take center stage, transforming into a brilliant canvas of reds, purples, yellows and oranges. People from all over the state flock to the area to enjoy the scenic byways, mountain views and charming towns that capture our unique fall beauty. It’s time to plan a day trip or weekend getaway to experience the magic of autumn in North Georgia.

The science of fall color: Shorter days and cooler nights initiate a chemical reaction within the cells of leaves .Green leaf pigment (chlorophyll), which produces food for trees during the spring and summer, begins to break down, as deciduous trees go dormant, and the green color begins to fade. During fall, other pigments in the leaf start to take over. Carotenoids produce vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and brown colors. They also help trees harvest light and protect tissue from UV damage.Anthocyanins are produced in the fall and create red, purple and blue colors. The amount of anthocyanin can affect the shade of red. These pigments also act as an antioxidant to help keep tree tissue healthy.

Predicting Best Color and Peak Time of Fall Leaves: Predicting how good the color show will be and when the peak will be reached is an inexact science. Light, moisture and temperature are the primary factors that affect the brilliance and duration of the fall leaf display. A long hot summer, combined with a lack of rain, can cause autumn’s annual color show to be postponed or for stressed trees to just give up and go straight to dropping brown leaves. 

Fall weather conditions can affect the intensity of the color as well. Fall days with cool temperatures above freezing encourage the vibrant red pigment, due to increased anthocyanin production. An early frost makes the intensity of colors decrease. Rain and clouds can also affect the brilliance of fall colors.

Fall in the North Georgia Mountains: Peak time to see Georgia’s fall colors is generally mid-to-late October through early November, when the North Georgia landscape transforms into a palette of gorgeous autumn colors. Keep updated on when the leaves are turning by checking in with the Georgia State Parks Leaf Watch website at gastateparks.org/leafwatch.