ExploringMaine.com

By the Maine Department of Conservation

Foliage color in the northern half of Maine is now ranging from 30 to 75 percent toward peak, according to the second fall foliage report from the state Department of Conservation.

Forest rangers in Aroostook County and the northern portions of Piscataquis and SomersetEarly foliage color Tuesday on Munsungan Lake in Piscataquis County north of Baxter State Park. Credit: Maine Department of Conservation County are observing high leaf color, or 50 to 70 percent toward peak, and low leaf drop, the report states.

Aroostook State Park Manager Scott Thompson reports that the low lying areas surrounding the park are 50 to 60 percent toward peak, and the ridges of hills and mountains are nearing peak. Thompson expects peak color to develop during the next two weekends if overnight temperatures continue to drop in the Presque Isle area.

Color in northwestern locations like Jackman, Eustis and Greenville, and northeastern locations like Millinocket and Houlton is now moderate, or 30 to 50 percent toward peak according to the report. Leaf drop in both regions is still less than 10 percent.
Early foliage color Tuesday on Munsungan Lake in Piscataquis County north of Baxter State Park. Credit: Maine Department of Conservation
Rangers are reporting 10 to 30 percent color change in the western mountains region from Bethel to Rangeley, central locations from Augusta to Bangor, and the downeast coast from Belfast to Eastport. Leaf drop is less than 10 percent in these regions.Maine foliage conditions for Sept. 23. Credit: Maine Department of Conservation

Foliage along the southern coast is still very low, or less than 10 percent toward peak, according to the report.

The Department of Conservation also announced that Aroostook State Park will host the first in a series of state park guided foliage hikes on Sunday, Sept. 26. For information about the hike and to register, visit http://take-it-outside.com/hike.shtml.