Fall Forecast Calls for Great Colors Across Southern Minnesota

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is predicting great colors as the leaves change this fall. Watch the DNR website for regular updates on which areas are peaking.

As the season changes to autumn, travelers can find a great variety of fall colors across the region. Most of Minnesota saw above-average precipitation, which makes for healthy green leaves going into this time of year. That is according to Patricia Arndt, the DNR's communications and outreach manager for the parks and trails division. In a news release from the DNR she said, "current weather conditions indicate we're on track for a great fall color year."

Peak colors occur from mid-September to early October in the northern third of the state. The central part of Minnesota will usually get its peak from late September through early October. The southern third of the state will normally see its peak from late September through mid-October.

The DNR website reports Rice Lake State Park of Owatonna at less than 10 percent on Sept. 10. There is a $5 vehicle permit for daily admission to state parks. An annual pass is $25.

The department offers a number of mobile fall features for smart phones. Visit the DNR website for more details.