Peak Leaf Color On Display In MD This Weekend: DNR

Fall colors are past their peak brilliance in Garrett County this weekend, while leaf colors at their peak color in much of the rest of Maryland, the Department of Natural Resources said in its fall foliage report Oct. 30.

From the Catoctin Mountains to rural woods from Cecil County in the north down to Montgomery County, this is the weekend to get outside.

"As cool temperatures set in, fall foliage is at its peak in Maryland – and past peak in Garrett County, where fallen leaves offer crisp contrast to the grays and greens of rocky trails," the DNR staff said. "Trees along the Catoctin Mountain range have continued to change through the past week. The region is currently at peak color, with most trees seeing at least moderate change at this point, although species and location play into this. Wind and precipitation have continued to bring leaves down. Howard, Montgomery, Carroll, Baltimore, Harford, and Cecil counties are at peak. The Eastern Shore is near peak, with foresters reporting fiery reds, deep purples, and bright oranges."

Related: Fall Foliage 2025 Weekly Forecast Maps Show When Colors Will Peak In MD

Washington County Forester Bob Schwartz posted, "I think we’ve finally hit peak foliage on the mountainsides of Washington County. While there is still a fair amount of green out there, alongside some bare branches, the oaks have finally turned, adding a range of golden brown to the red and burgundy on the landscape, depending on the species. This is in addition to individuals of hickory, sassafras, sumac, and maple that didn’t brown-out and drop early. The lower elevations in the Hagerstown Valley are a mixed bag, however, with some areas readily changing and others delayed. Given the uncertainty earlier this season, with the lack of rain and warm temperatures, the vibrancy of this color certainly exceeds expectations."

The USDA Forest Service says three primary factors influence autumn leaf color: leaf pigments, length of night, and weather.

Weather can have a big effect. Leaves need warm, sunny days, but also crisp but not freezing nights to bring about the most spectacular color show. Both rainfall and drought can also affect its vibrancy, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

To use a predictive tool from Explore Fall, click on the state you want to visit, then use the slider tool to determine the best time to visit. It’ll show where travelers are most likely to see “high color” and “peak color,” and when the foliage is past its prime.

The tool shows peak color arriving in the Baltimore region in early November, while coastal areas will reach peak about a week later.

AccuWeather forecasters said leaf-peepers should expect typical autumn colors throughout most of the state, while communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains are likely to see dull foliage.