Fall Leaf Color

In October and November, Georgia’s landscape transforms into a palette of gorgeous fall colors. Get out and enjoy the reds, yellows and all the hues in between during an outing framed around the best scenes the season has to offer. State Highway 197 between Clarkesville and U.S. Highway 76 is one of the most pastoral and scenic routes for leaf viewing.

The mountains of North Georgia are the ideal location for experiencing some of the finest views. Trying to predict the peak of fall color year to year is a challenge since much depends on the weather and the microclimate around each tree. Fortunately, Georgia's variety of tree species ensures you can count on a show of fall colors each year.

Normally, the optimum time to see the leaf change in the north Georgia mountains is the last weekend in October. If you are going into the higher elevations, subtract a week. Closer to Atlanta, try the first week in November.

Since leaf change can vary, it is best to check locally in the area you wish to visit prior to leaving.