Leaf Watch Report for October 1, 2026
The fall foliage season has just arrived in north-central Georgia and the overall forest canopy across all elevation ranges is still dominated by summer green. Some early changing tree species such as sourwood, flowering dogwood, red maple, and yellow-poplar are beginning to show some nice early fall colors ranging from dull red to bright red to yellow-brown. Also, native vine species such as Virginia creeper and poison ivy are starting to add some color across the landscape in north Georgia.
In addition, now is a great time to get out and view some of the abundant native wildflower species such as black-eyed susans, bluestem goldenrod, bluewood aster, wingstem, and ironweed.
We are setting the stage for what appears to be a good leaf-viewing season across the north-central region of Georgia. Usually, the best and most vibrant displays of fall color throughout the landscape occurs during late October to early November. However, quick changes in the weather pattern can influence the peak period to having an earlier season or later peak foliage viewing.
PERCENTAGE OF LEAF CHANGE:
- Above 3000’ – 2%
- Below 3,000’ – 1%
WEATHER:
Currently, we are in abnormally moderate drought conditions across portions of the area. We are expecting some much needed and beneficial rainfall over the upcoming weekend, followed by much cooler nighttime and daytime temperatures which will accelerate and set the stage for fall colors to begin transforming the landscape across the mountains and foothills.
OUTINGS:
State Route 17 South of Hiawassee is always an excellent scenic drive. Also, State Route 180 in Towns and Union Counties is showing some minor fall color changes at this time. Fall wildflowers are in full glory and provide a nice backdrop with the surrounding mountains!
Several fall festivals are taking place this weekend across the north-central Georgia area. The Marble Festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 3 through Sunday, October 4 in Jasper, GA. The Cherry Log Festival is taking place Saturday, October 3 through Sunday, October 4 in Cherry Log, GA. In addition, the Indian Summer Festival will be held Saturday, October 3 through Sunday, October 4 in Suches, GA.
The much-anticipated fall colors and cool weather are fast approaching. While leaf color change has only just begun, there is some “blushing ” amongst some the maples, sourwood, and blackgum species while others remain fully green. Stream side species like sycamore, poplar, and river birch are showing mild change to yellow and brown but are not the showstoppers like the higher elevation species.
Most of the color will be seen in individual trees and not the overall landscape. Don’t overlook the wildflowers as they are in full bloom with goldenrod, blue mistflower, frost aster, swamp sunflower and yellow crownbeard being just a few of the ones in full bloom this week.
At this time, things are set to be a good season. Current weather patterns and forecast shows typical weather patterns that should keep the color change on a usual cycle. Peak season should fall around the end of October to the first of November, however weather changes could impact peak by a week one direction or another or shorten or lengthen the season.
WEATHER:
There have been no forecasted weather events that will have an impact on color change for this week.
OUTINGS:
Lower elevations will provide views of riparian species with minimal color. However, these lower elevation drives provide great views of blooming wildflowers.
The links below will have numerous events, festivals, and celebrations.
Click here to view all of this week’s photos and access our 2026 Leaf Watch map.
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