A sure sign that autumn is in full swing is the return of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) weekly fall color report, which despite a dry August and September, fall colors are beginning to emerge across the state, with peak viewing expected between early and mid-October in many areas. Virginia creeper and sumac are turning crimson in northeast Iowa, while cottonwood, elm, ash, and walnut trees display yellow hues. Northern and central regions are seeing similar changes, with sugar maples and hard maples adding orange to the mix. Southeast Iowa remains early in the season, showing subtle yellow and brown tones. Southwestern Iowa’s native grasses are turning reddish, contrasting with dogwoods and cottonwoods. Iowans can expect the most vibrant displays when sunny days and cool nights prevail. Peak viewing times are estimated from Oct. 10-20 in the north and mid-October to late October in the south. The DNR releases fall color reports weekly, and those can be found using the link included below.
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