Foliage Report for October 16, 2024

Maine's Final 2024 Fall Foliage Report: Peak Colors Near the Coast as Season Nears its End

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) has released its final Foliage reportfor the season, indicating peak and past-peak conditions throughout most of Maine. As the weekend approaches, coastal areas are nearing peak color, with moderate leaf drop expected (70-100 percent) across the state.

This Week's Foliage Outlook

"The entire state of Maine is ablaze with vibrant fall colors this weekend," said Gale Ross, fall foliage spokesperson. "But along the coast, youll still find green oaks creating a striking contrast. I like to call this 'Maines weekend. With the holiday traffic behind us, its the perfect time to take a scenic drive, hike, or bike ride and enjoy the colors with fewer crowds. Even past peak remains beautifully colorful and photo-worthy."

Ross added, "As we wrap up another stunning foliage season, thank you to everyone who loves and celebrates Maine in the fall. And remember, theres still time to experience our seasonal beauty and enjoy fall-inspired events and activities!"

Consider these ideas for the Maine fall foliage finale:

• Maine Beaches Region Road Trip: Take a road trip to the Maine Beaches region of the state this weekend for color along the coast. Dont miss a leisurely walk along Marginal Way, a one-mile paved coastal path offering panoramic coastal views leading to Perkins Cove.
• Gear Again Festival & Market: The Gear Again Festival & Market will take place this Saturday at Toad&Co Portland with an annual gear sale and a free gear repair station. The Markers Market will feature sustainable products and unique finds.
• Mount Desert Island Marathon: On Sunday, for those exploring Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, be sure to check out the Mount Desert Island Marathon.
• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Stretch your legs and discover all five giant trolls, known as the Guardians of the Seeds, at Boothbays Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens during their last weekend of the season.
• Upcoming Events: Looking ahead to later this month as Halloween and November approaches, enjoy the unique food and beverage-focused events of Harvest on the Harbor, October 24-26, or take part in the fun of Ogunquitfest, October 25-27, with a classic car show, the DogtoberFest Costume Walk, trick or treating and the high heel dash.
• Local Farm Stands: Take full advantage of the harvest season with a stop at a local farm stand for a variety of in-season agricultural products.

Foliage season enthusiasts can visit the states official foliage website to receive weekly reports by email. Everyone is invited to share color progression photos from throughout Maine. The Maine Fall Foliage Facebook and Instagram accounts feature gorgeous images and special activities statewide. To make the most of your Maine fall adventure, explore more seasonal events and travel tips at www.visitmaine.com. The colors are calling come experience the magic of Maine this autumn.

Week of October 16, 2024

Zone Number	Color Change	Leaf Drop
7	Past Peak	High
6	Past Peak	High
5	Past Peak	Moderate
4 North	Past Peak	Moderate
4 South	Peak	Moderate
3	Peak	Moderate
2	Peak	Moderate
1	Peak	Moderate

Foliage Zones

Zone 7: Northeastern Maine, including Fort Kent, Caribou, and Presque Isle

Zone 6: Northwestern Maine

Zone 5: Western Mid-Maine, including Greenville, Rangeley, Bethel

Zone 4: Eastern Mid-Maine, including Houlton, Millinocket, and Calais

Zone 3: Central and Southwestern Maine, including Bangor, Augusta, and Fryeburg

Zone 2: Downeast Maine, including Machias, Bar Harbor, and Penobscot Bay

Zone 1: Mid-Coast and South Coastal Maine, including Camden, Portland, Kennebunkport, and Kittery