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Usually fall colors begin in mid-September and run through the end of October, peaking at varying times throughout the state depending on frost conditions. Except for the far western quarter of the Michigan Upper Peninsula which peaks from mid-September to early October, all other areas in the U.P. peak from late-September to mid-October. The expected peak color for the Lower Peninsula is from late September to late October. Of course, this is an "expected" time-frame. The actual timing is up to Mother Nature! We'll open this page for posting around the 2nd week of September each year. Enjoy the show!

What causes the colors? Read this for answers.

See Viewer Reports below. Reports from observers (including YOU) may be added any time below. Please contribute. It's as easy as looking out your window or making observations on your next road trip. We would all like to know what's going on in YOUR neck of the woods. Our compiled report comes from user feedback and from AAA Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association, State Rangers, the Michigan State Tourist Association, and good friends located around the state.

Reporter: John || Viewdate: 9/6/2009
Maple trees in neighbor's yard (Canton, MI) starting to turn... never seen it this early.

Reporter: Eastpointer || Viewdate: 9/12/2009
I'm in Detroit Metro (9 Mile & Gratiot). Today I noticed my Dogwood tree has started turning, but in addition the two maple trees nearby have a few leaves starting to turn. A couple leaves have even fallen. I have a feeling this is going to be an early fall colors season this year!!!

Reporter: Al || Viewdate: 9/12/2009
Two small spots of color between Gaylord and the Bridge, the rest is green. 3 wks away yet.

Reporter: WDWGreg || Viewdate: 9/20/2009
The color season seems to be off to an early start in Southeastern Michigan. Many of the shrubs are turning yellow and there some reds showing up among the ground cover and a few of the stressed trees. Many of the trees have turned to a lime green and some are now turning yellow.

Reporter: Neil || Viewdate: 9/25/2009
Locust trees are just about all yellow here in Ann Arbor. Must be the first to turn?

Reporter: Larryg || Viewdate: 10/03/2009
Rain all day. Porky's minimal color yet, drove Presque Isle, Copper Harbor, Eagle Harbor. most consistent color found was south of Houghton about 15 miles on route 38/64 some color from Copper Harbor and Pigeon (rte 41) will be heading towards Munising tomorrow. Still about 1 to 2 weeks away (best guess) for full color. although spots here and there with some yellows and reds.

Reporter: Adele || Viewdate: 10/4/2009
Maples are changing nicely...about 25% for the majority...Kalamazoo County

Reporter: Mike || Viewdate: 10/5/2009
Colors on 41 south of Marquette going towards Rapid River exploded in color the last few days.

Reporter: Lars || Viewdate: 10/8/2009
There is great color all around the northwestern UP now. Colors are very vibrant. I have recent photos here: http://www-personal.umich.edu/~jensenl/visuals/album/2009/up/

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Usually fall colors begin in mid-September and run through the end of October, peaking at varying times throughout the state depending on frost conditions. Except for the far western quarter of the Michigan Upper Peninsula which peaks from mid-September to early October, all other areas in the U.P. peak from late-September to mid-October. The expected peak color for the Lower Peninsula is from late September to late October. Of course, this is an "expected" time-frame. The actual timing is up to Mother Nature!