The latest Iowa DNR Fall Colors reports indicates the best viewing of the 2024 season is coming this weekend. According to this week’s report, in central Iowa, “Fall colors are in full swing. Central Iowa will be at peak fall color from now through about the next ten days. Lots of yellows at full peak, including cottonwood, elm, walnut, hackberry, ash, hickory, and others. Red and crimson colors are good on sumac, dogwood, Virginia creeper, and some maples. Oaks have started to partially turn red.”

While a lack of drought helped keep the trees in less stress early in the season, a round of dry, warm weather has slowed the start and may mute some of the colors this autumn. Also, windy conditions today and Friday may also knock down many leaves on trees already going through the winterization process.