Local News

Prolonged foliage still yielding colors

Pockets of trees in Vermont were still showing peak foliage conditions until Oct. 24, displaying full-bodied orange and yellow hues, and bright reds that are especially spotlighted by early-morning and late-afternoon autumn sunlight.

All stages of fall color are now present across Vermont in what is now among the most prolonged and varied fall foliage seasons in memory, said  Vermont Dept. of Forests, Parks, and Recreation Commissioner Michael Snyder, last week.

“Some zones, particularly at higher elevations, have moved past peak color but with pockets of gorgeous color still remaining,” said Snyder. “While many parts of the state are in mid- to later- stages of color, some areas, particularly along major river valleys and in the Champlain Valley, are only just now moving from largely green toward excellent color.”

As Vermont’s famous maples began to shift beyond peak in some locations, noteworthy species less accustomed to the limelight during foliage season are now on full display, including aspen, oak, and beech trees.

Hillsides, where the peak colors are tapering off, were still graced by distinct trees that are individually striking for their enduring colors, shapes, and textures.

Photo by Robin Alberti
Vermont’s foliage season began, stopped abruptly after an unseasonable warm spell, then resumed, giving it longevity.

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