Fall color in portions of northern Minn. at 75-100%

Fall color is quickly developing in northern parts of the state, according to the latest update from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

According to the DNR’s fall color finder map, as of Thursday, portions of northern Minnesota are displaying seasonal color change up to 100%. 

Roughly a week ago, the map reported fall color in portions of the state was at 25-50%.

Most areas are reporting a mix of yellow, orange and red colors.

To update the map each week, state park staff check the trees, wildflowers and grasses in their area. Those observations are used to create the color-coded map that shows the approximate percentage of fall color that can be seen.

When it comes to how much fall color trees will produce, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Health Program Coordinator Val Cervenka said temperature and soil moisture matter.

For example, Cervenka says mild summer drought can increase the color in changing leaves, but warm weather can decrease the brilliance of that color.

Fall color preview: Where and when to see the best foliage in Minnesota

Minnesotans who are interested can compare this year’s fall color data with the past two years, to see how the fall season can change in the state.

Additionally, those interested can sign up for weekly email updates on where to find peak fall color here. You can also find more route directions and details on the fall color drives here.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS has also compiled a Fall Guide with lists of fall activities and a fall color photo gallery.