As temperatures cool and everything pumpkin spice hits local stores, thoughts turn to fall in the Chicago area.
And what better way to celebrate this vibrant season than to take a trip to see the leaves change color. Since 2013, SmokyMountains.com has been using data and feedback from foliage enthusiasts across the United States to produce a map that shows a county-by-county view of the best times to visit the country and see the leaves at their best.
Much like meteorologists predict the weather, SmokyMountains.com has become the go-to site for localized foliage information. The site combines historical temperature and precipitation information with tree type by geographic region. The dates listed below may not be hard and fast rules, but rather guidelines for when the leaves may appear in all their glory. Users are also encouraged to upload photos and details from their area to help improve the forecast.
Northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin could see their leaves peak in mid-October. Want to see the red, yellow and orange canopy of trees earlier? Travel farther north in late September or early October.
2024 Fall Foliage Forecast Map, by County
Click and drag the button below to visualize the expected color change of the leaves over the coming weeks.
To learn more about the Tribune’s fall guides:
