It’s no question that autumn in the Adirondack Park can be absolutely stunning. And leaf-peepers may be in for a treat this season, as experts predict that foliage could be more vibrant here than in many other parts of the state! Here’s what you might be seeing throughout the region in the coming weeks.
A Good Year for Leaf-Peeping?
According to Donald Leopold, a professor at SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry in Syracuse, areas in the Adirondacks experienced sufficient rainfall over the summer season. Leopold told The Post-Star that this could result in good colors throughout much of the region.
On the other hand, some parts of the Adirondack Park have seen drought-like conditions over the past few months. Taryn Bauerle, Cornell University associate professor of plant science, says this may similarly lead to great leaf-peeping compared to other regions in the state. But why?
Apparently, too much or too little water causes stress, which trees react to by changing color more quickly. On top of that, the warm days and cool nights that have accompanied the start of fall should make those colors even more vibrant.
“New York has had wet and warm weather leading into the season, which will delay changes in foliage and lessen their vibrancy,” Bauerle told Sun Community News, adding that the North Country could be the exception. “If the [Adirondack Park] continues to have dry weather paired with the goldilocks scenario — [warm sunny days followed by cool nights] — you will definitely be set up for better colors than rest of region.”
Foliage Predictions Through Tuesday
Visit ILoveNY.com for the latest reports updated weekly.
- Saranac Lake: More than 50% color change; Red, orange, and yellow.
- Tupper Lake: 45%-50% change; Muted rosy and golden colors emerging.
- Malone: 20% change; Gold, orange, and red.
- Old Forge: 35% change; Burgundy, red, orange.
- Johnsburg/North Creek: Red beginning to emerge.
- Warren County: 10%-20% change, mainly in the northwestern portion.
Fall has only just begun, so we could have a bit longer to go before foliage season really kicks off. Added Bauerle to The Sun, “It’s hard to predict Mother Nature and what the next few weeks will bring.”
Sources:
- ILoveNY — New York Fall Foliage Report, Week of September 26-October 2
- Sun Community News — Muted fall foliage predicted statewide — but Adirondacks may be spared
- The Post-Star — Fall foliage could be highly variable this year
