Peak Conditions Occurring in Northern Maine

October 2, 2019 — This week’s fall foliage report from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry reports low-to-moderate conditions throughout many parts of Maine. Portions of the western mountains are experiencing high color, with peak conditions occurring in northern Maine.

Typically, northern Maine (zones 6 and 7) reaches peak conditions the last week of September into the first week of October. The rest of the state’s progression of color will start occurring from north to south in mid-October. Coastal Maine typically reaches peak conditions mid-to-late October.

“While we are seeing peak conditions in northern Maine and high color in portions of the western mountains, colors are still emerging on a daily basis in central and coastal regions of the state,” noted Gale Ross, fall foliage coordinator. “Weather going forward includes seasonal day and cooler nighttime temperatures, which brings about the brilliant autumn colors that we all longingly wait for this time of year,” noted Ross.

Capture the growing foliage by partaking in one of the many activities taking place this weekend, including Maine Craft Weekend, a statewide tour of Maine craft studios, breweries and businesses and a number of special events.

On the coast, the 21^st Annual Freeport Fall Festival is taking place October 5-7. Sample and vote for Freeport’s best chowder, enjoy a juried art show and listen to live music. Inland, the Maine Forest and Logging Museum will host their most popular event of the year, Living History Days, this Saturday and Sunday at Leonard’s Mills in Bradley. Participants will witness re-enactors with livestock, a restored steam powered Lombard log hauler and historic demonstrations, and enjoy refreshments including fresh-pressed cider and bean-hole beans.

Looking ahead to the long weekend, make plans for the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta™ or Acadia’s Oktoberfest.

Based on the current high-color foliage reported, this week’s touring suggestion features Maine’s Lakes and Mountains, the western region of the state. Make your way to Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway following Routes 17 and 4 for mountainous vistas and lake views. This 52-mile drive wraps around Rangeley Lake and follows the ridgeline of the Appalachian Mountains before dropping into rolling hills and valleys. Plan a stop at the Height of Land, a scenic lookout on Route 17 with views of Mooselookmeguntic and Upper Richardson lakes. For outdoor lovers looking for a moderate hike, try the two-mile trail up Bald Mountain in Oquossoc. Pack a picnic for the top where you will be greeted by 360-degree views of the region.

Autumn enthusiasts can visit the state’s official foliage website at www.mainefoliage.com to sign up to receive weekly reports by email, and can share their photos from the different regions of the state as the progression of color begins. Our Facebook page will include statewide events taking place throughout the season, and our Instagram account (@mainefoliage) will feature colorful fall shots. For more information about fall activities and events in Maine, go to www.visitmaine.com.