As August comes to a close, pumpkin spice is returning to coffee shops, kids are going back to school and before we know it, leaves will be changing color and falling off trees.
With a rebound from last year’s drought and predicted warmer weather patterns, this autumn, New England is expected to have a gradual, vibrant leaf color show, according to the 2026 fall foliage forecast from Yankee Magazine. Wondering exactly what to expect, including when the leaves will change color?
Here’s the latest fall foliage forecast in New Hampshire this year, according to Yankee Magazine.
New Hampshire fall foliage forecast 2026
Yankee Magazine forecaster and foliage reporter Jim Salge predicts that New England will see a long, spectacular foliage season this year. A vibrant color palette is expected across healthy, full canopies, with the potential for fiery reds.
While last autumn saw a brief, duller foliage season due to drought in New England, the landscape’s water reserves were restored over this past winter and spring. Meltwater from a snow-filled winter soaked into the thawing ground as spring arrived in March, with ample rainfall providing sufficient moisture throughout April and May.
“Given the abundance we are seeing in the woods right now, the recovery from last year’s drought has been about as good as we could have hoped for,” explained Salge, referencing bountiful treetops and abundant crops of blueberries, blackberries and mushrooms. “With plenty of moisture in the ground and healthy leaves on the trees, we expect a slower lead-up to the main event.”
Rather than a brief pop of peak fall colors, New England will likely see a gradual autumn, allowing leaf peepers to enjoy the transition between colors in the trees. While some coastal areas experiencing moderate drought may see condensed colors, overall, Salge said the outlook for the foliage season is highly encouraging.
However, Salge also said the length and vibrancy of the foliage season depends on the cooperation of fall weather. Together with a healthy, abundant forest, a spectacular autumn can only be delivered by “the right combination of crisp, cool nights; sunny days; and timely rainfall,” said Salge. “The forest has done its part; now we just need the fall weather to cooperate as expected.”
When will fall foliage peak in New Hampshire this year?
According to Yankee Magazine’s Peak Fall Foliage Map, foliage in New Hampshire will peak in early to mid-October. Autumn colors will begin to come through in mid-September, with the most vibrant oranges and reds appearing in the first half of October before fading out in later in the month.
In general, leaves turn in northern New England first, with autumn color expected to gradually trickle down through Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut as the season continues.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald. Reporting by Catherine Messier.
