Modern technology has made many things easier. Even some niche aspects of our lives have become expedited; like locating the perfect spots for leaf peeping.
The DNR's Fall Color Finder (active since 2007) tells patrons where the leaves are changing and the estimated percentage of changed color. “It's really a very good, deep snapshot of what's going on in each park every week,” says Val Cervenka, Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Every year the leaves change from north to south, but other factors such as rainfall, wind and storms can affect when color emerges and how long the color will last. “Chilly nights and bright sunny days; that's gonna make these colors pop,” says Cervenka. "Normally color lasts about two weeks."
And if you’re planning an excursion for leaf peeping, Cervenka has a few suggestions that might break the usual mold. “Right now the best colors are happening in the northwest part of the state: Big Bog, Hayes Lake, Red River, Lake Bronson, Zippel Bay." Cervenka also notes that finding a park with a fire tower is a great way to take in a panoramic view.
The Fall Color Finder can be found at the Minnesota DNR website.
