It’s still early in the fall color season, even as the recent dry stretch has strained some trees heading into winter. According to the Iowa DNR Weekly Report, in central Iowa, “Maples are turning red and orange in some areas. Walnuts, elms, hackberries, and cottonwoods are turning yellow; some are shedding leaves. Roadside sumacs and woodbine are scarlet red. Winged Euonymus (exotic and invasive) are cerise.”

In south central Iowa, “shagbark hickory is turning yellow and brown. Sumacs and five-leaf ivies are ruby-red. Swamp white oaks are starting to turn yellow. Green ashes are starting to show yellow. Prolonged drought stress is evident on many trees and shrubs. Dogwoods are showing purples. Many walnuts have dropped their leaves already. Hickories and maples are starting to change colors. Most oaks are still very green.”

Professor of Biology at Central College Paul Weihe recommends viewing locally at Big Rock Park and along the trails at Lake Red Rock.

“My favorite places would be anywhere around the lake, because you get the reflection of the colors on the water and we have nice, paved roads that go around the lake,” he says. “Here in town, Big Rock Park is just lovely — it’s just a gem.”

The estimated peak day for viewing locally is October 19th.