Some Parts of Minnesota Near 50% of Peak Color

Sep 23, 2022 | 10:22 AM

Jennifer Lewerenz/KNSI News

(KNSI/KDLM) – Peak color in central Minnesota is typically the last week of September or the first week of October, but it might be a bit late this year.

The Lakes Area is hovering around 10-25% according to the Department of Natural Resources weekly report, issued early Thursday. There are some spots not too far away where yellows, oranges, and reds are starting to show up. An area consisting of northeastern Benton County, eastern Morrison County, and most of Mille Lacs County is nearing 50% of peak.

Leaves change color as trees quit producing chlorophyll due to the shorter days of fall and winter when sunlight is weakest.

The DNR tracks fall color progression at over 70 parks across the state. You can find the latest report here.

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