BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Fall lovers have good news headed their way.
Despite expert predictions that dry weather this summer would impact our fall foliage, it’s on track to peak in nine days. That's in line with historical norms.
- Fall color is set to peak shortly, experts say
- The arrival of cooler air played a big part in helping color pop
- Trees lose their green color as they stop producing chlorophyll
Ryan Reed, a natural resource program specialist at the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, noticed this when traveling the state. The edge of forests, which gets more sun and wind than the middle, has hit its peak colors - yellow, orange, red, purple, and brown - sooner than the center.
“Our fall cooldown came right on schedule,”Ryan Reed, Natural Resource Program Specialist at the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
“Our fall cooldown came right on schedule,” said Reed. “Cold and dry are two of the best stimuli to bring on great fall colors.”
Trees, considered to be woody perennials, lose their green color as they stop producing chlorophyll. Depending on the type of tree, this can be a precursor to shedding leaves, which helps trees conserve their energy and allows them to stay alive through the winter.
For those looking to enjoy fall views, Discover Lehigh Valley recommends visiting Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites and the Lehigh Valley Covered Bridge Tour. Residents are also encouraged to hike the 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor or check out other multi-use trails in THE LINK Trail Network.
For the more adventurous, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers the chance to see hawks and other raptors during their migration period, against panoramic views. And Blue Mountain Resort has chairlift rides, for a birds-eye treetop view.
Residents can stay up-to-date by checking out the state foliage map or visiting their local park.