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Fall Color Report: October 14-20, 2025
In the northern regions of Pure Michigan, fall color is reaching its peak in a crescendo of gold, orange and red – and the rest of the state is not far behind. Discover where you can find spectacular fall foliage, harvest celebrations, and spooky events throughout our two peninsulas to make the most of the season.
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Parts of the Upper Peninsula are displaying a kaleidoscope of peak fall color with pops of jewel-toned evergreens, and other areas along the Great Lakes’ shorelines are nearing peak. Now is the perfect time to take a scenic drive through millions of acres of lush forests across the UP’s dynamic landscape, or cozy up in small towns to slow down and enjoy the scenery. |
 Munising / Photo courtesy of Thomas Dolaskie
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The Keweenaw Peninsula
Fall Color: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 10-18, 2025
The weather is certainly feeling like fall, and the Keweenaw is in full cozy mode! Mount Bohemia has opened a NEW, outdoor mineral hot springs pool. The fall colors are popping on the slopes, making leaf peeping a perfect pairing with a relaxing soak! Now is also the perfect time to go on a scenic drive throughout the peninsula, with the views from Brockway Mountain being especially unforgettable.
The Portage Canal area is just coming into its full color, creating a great backdrop to enjoy sky-high views and a hearty meal at the Observatory Lounge from their new menu. Or grab a drink from the Keweenaw Brewing Company, Ambassador Restaurant, or The Den and take a canal-side walk in the Houghton Social District.
Events
Candlelight: A Classic Rock Tribute (October 16) | DesRochers Field of Terror (October 18) | Treat Street in Houghton (October 18)
Marquette
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: now through October 20, 2025
This week, the Marquette area and the Lake Superior shoreline are approaching peak fall color, while the west end of Marquette County is past its peak. Enjoy stunning fall foliage views on a scenic chairlift ride at Marquette Mountain Resort, or breeze through the forest on a bike along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.
Events
Fresh Coast Film Festival (October 16-19) | Lake Superior Performance Rally (October 16-18)
Munising
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 15-20, 2025
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Munising’s fall foliage is on full display in the coming week. Take a scenic, relaxing drive along H-58 or I-94 to view fall colors on the go. Or, before the sun sets and a spectacular stargazing show begins, go on a Pictured Rocks sunset boat tour with Pictured Rocks Cruises to see peak fall color adorn the sandstone cliffs over Lake Superior.
Sault Ste. Marie
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: now through October 20, 2025
Sault Ste. Marie is enjoying peak fall color with scenic views along the St Marys River. Visitors can experience the Soo Locks and see freighters with fall foliage serving as a beautiful backdrop. Nearby in Paradise, Tahquamenon Falls – the largest waterfall in Michigan – is even more incredible when the fall colors are at their peak. Downtown Sault Ste. Marie offers small-town charm, complete with coffee, sweets and treats that match the season's vibe.
Events
Downtown Sault Ste. Marie Halloween SpookTacular (October 24) | "Haunted" Museum Ship Valley Camp (October 24-25)
Manistique
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: now through October 17, 2025
On the shore of Lake Michigan, experience a world of fall color and a relaxing fall getaway in Manistique. Soak up coastal views and fall foliage along the boardwalk, which will lead you to the bright red, iconic East Breakwater Light. At Palms Book State Park, board the self-operated observation raft on Kitch-iti-kipi, also known as the Big Springs, to peer down into the crystal clear waters of Michigan’s largest natural spring.
Events
Walk For The Wild 5K Challenge at Seney Wildlife Refuge (October 18) | Seul Choix Pointe Haunted Lighthouse (October 18, 25)
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Fall color is continuing to grow across the northern region of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, with inland forests showcasing more color than those along the coast. Experience incredible, bird’s-eye views from the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge or aboard a scenic chairlift ride, or enjoy a picturesque wagon ride beneath the trees. From spooky Halloween celebrations to festivals on the farm, you can craft your perfect autumnal getaway. |
 Trails in Manistee County / Photo courtesy of Manistee Tourism
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The Petoskey Area
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 21-27, 2025
Visit SkyBridge Michigan at Boyne Mountain Resort! Although peak color season is a busy one, midweek visits provide a slower pace. Make sure you pre-purchase your tickets, as this is required for weekends during peak times. Or hike to the top of Avalanche Mountain Preserve in Boyne City. This trail has a 462-step climb to a scenic overlook, but it is well worth the trek for scenic views of the Boyne Valley and Lake Charlevoix near Downtown Boyne City.
Events
Gypsy Distillery Fall Fest (October 17-18) | Fall Fest Weekends at Pond Hill Farm (October 18-19) | Fall Color Cruise on Lake Charlevoix (October 18-19)
Traverse City
Fall Color: < 20%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 20-27, 2025
Traverse City offers a variety of unique ways to explore fall color as it grows across the landscape, from fall wagon rides at Black Star Farms and scenic chairlift rides at Crystal Mountain. To savor the harvest season’s produce and culinary creations, visit the Frankfort Farmer's Market on Saturdays through October 25.
Events
Dogs and Donuts at Shady Lane Cellars (October 18) | Traverse City Beer Week (November 7-15)
Manistee County
Inland Fall Color: 40-60%
Coastal Fall Color: 20-40%
Inland Peak Color Estimate: October 16-23, 2025
Coastal Peak Color Estimate: October 18-25, 2025
Manistee County is reporting near-peak fall color inland as the trees along Lake Michigan take their time this season. Explore pumpkin patches and corn mazes at local farms, or take a scenic drive through the Manistee National Forest or along M-22 at the height of its color. Cyclists and hikers enjoy the vibrant trails, while cozy downtown shops and restaurants offer warm drinks and hearty meals perfect for the season. It’s a time when the county blends natural beauty with festive community spirit, making autumn one of the most memorable times to visit Manistee County.
Events
Hay Day is at Manistee National (October 18) | Downtown Manistee's Fall Festival (October 25) | Whoville Haunted Pumpkin Path (October 18, 25) | Ghost Ship on the SS City of Milwaukee (Fridays and Saturdays in October)
Rogers City
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 22-28, 2025
Located on Lake Huron, Rogers City is home to one of Michigan’s most iconic apple orchards, Knaebe's Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm. Here visitors can enjoy family fun for all ages, cider, donuts, wood-fired pizza, hard cider and more. Or get lost in Moltke Maize Maze that offers challenges with different levels of difficulty. Take a quick drive west to Ocqueoc Falls for beautiful fall color surrounding Michigan’s largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula, which is also universally accessible. Back in downtown Rogers City, find meaningful mementos to remember your trip by, or get ahead on shopping for the holiday season.
Events
Witches Walk for PAWS (October 18) | 4-H Not-So-Spooky Night Hike (October 23) | Trunk or Treat (October 25)
Cadillac Area
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 20-27, 2025
Explore the Cadillac area with a self-guided fall color tour along hundreds of miles of scenic drives with dozens of stops, in and around Cadillac. Discover family fun on the farm to make lasting memories and celebrate the harvest season, or take advantage of golf and lodging specials this fall in the Cadillac area.
Events
Fall Color Tour 2025 (October 16) | Moonlit Corn Maze at Dick Family Farm (October 18, 31) | Maple Hill Cemetery Tours (October 25)
Gaylord
Fall Color: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 17-24, 2025
Fall in Gaylord is all about traditions and seasonal favorites. Local farms, both generational and new, offer hayrides, pumpkin patches, cider, donuts, farm animals and even unique animals like yaks.
Gaylord is nearing peak fall color, and autumn is also peak season for viewing elk activity. The new viewing platform and trail at Elk View Park give you a great view of the herd, and their bugling calls are something you won’t forget. Aspen Park is another great spot for a quiet walk with a chance to see them. Scenic drives are another fall highlight in the northern Lower Peninsula, with backroads and rolling hills full of color this time of year.
Events
Haunted Boardwalk and Pumpkin Contest (October 18) | Prusakiewicz Farm Days (October 18) | Wilderness Valley Farm Days (October 18-19) | Fleming Farm Pumpkin Patch (October 18-19) | Legacy Acres Farm Day (October 18-19)
Crystal Mountain
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: now through October 20, 2025
Visit Crystal Mountain for a full day of autumn adventures and activities during Fall Fun Weekends, including scenic chairlift rides, biking, gem mining, alpine slide, Michigan Legacy Art Park, and more. Plus, apple cider and donuts! If you’re looking for a great game, many golfers will argue fall golf is the best golf because of the cooler temps, fewer people, better rates, more availability, and the beautiful pops of color.
After enjoying the outdoors, indulge in seasonal spa treatments, such as the Honey Harvest Glow body treatment or Crystal Glow facial, for great prices during Crystal Spa Days (now through November 16).
Events
Scarecrow Walk (now through October 26) | Peak2Peak Mountain Bike Classic (October 18) | Longevity Challenge (October 25)
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In the central Lower Peninsula, fall color is continuing to progress as deep greens fade into hues of gold, orange and red. Experience days filled with storybook charm in downtowns enriched by vivid pops of fall foliage, or make timeless memories on family-friendly farms to celebrate the harvest season. |
 Muskegon / Photo courtesy of Visit Muskegon
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Frankenmuth
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 20-24, 2025
As fall color progresses across Frankenmuth, sharpen your blacksmithing skills and make an herb chopper for all your fall harvest needs at the Bavarian Blacksmith Experience. To taste the flavors of fall, enjoy seasonal Blue Hubbard Squash at Zehnder's of Frankenmuth or the Bavarian Inn Restaurant.
Events
October Author Jamboree at Charlin's Book Nook (October 18) | Halloween for Autism Awareness (October 18) | Scarecrow Fest and Dog Weekend at Frankenmuth River Place Shops (October 18-19)
Silver Lake
Fall Color: < 20%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 20-31, 2025
In nearby New Era, celebrate autumn on the farm at Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, which offers more than 46 farm attractions like a pumpkin house, unique animals, jumping pillows, a carousel and tasty treats. Savor more flavors of the harvest season at a variety of farm markets in the Silver Lake and Hart areas.
Events
COW-lorful Wagon Rides at Country Dairy (Saturdays, reservations required) | Shoreline Horseback Riding at Silver Lake State Park (November 1-30, registration required)
Muskegon
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 20-31, 2025
Enjoy Muskegon County’s best fall colors with the Depot to Depot Self-Guided Tour along the historic West Michigan Pike Byway. Start at one of the century-old depots to pick up a free route map, insider tips, and collectible postcards. Along the route, take advantage of special fall offers at local shops, restaurants and attractions while enjoying lakeshore and countryside views.
Celebrate the spooky season in Muskegon County with the second annual Hay Bale Decorating Competition and the Lakeside Scarecrow Contest displays. Both areas feature social districts, so you can sip an adult beverage as you take in the creative displays and the spirit of the season! Or plan a fall adventure at the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park during their Fall Outdoor Adventure Weekends. Visitors can zipline 1,400 feet over a stunning canopy of fall colors, try out a unique wheel luge track, scale an outdoor rock-climbing wall, and much more.
Events
"Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" at the Frauenthal Center (October 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25) | Halloween Bash at the Muskegon Farmers Market (October 18) | Free Family Movie at the Historic Frauenthal Theater: Beetlejuice (October 19)
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Brilliant fall colors are continuing to progress across the southern region of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Here you can blend coastal getaways and small-town charm with U-pick farms just outside vibrant cities waiting to be explored. Make your autumnal adventure unforgettable by savoring the flavors of the season and joining in festivities offering delicious treats and exciting frights. |
 Kalamazoo / Photo courtesy of Discover Kalamazoo
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Saugatuck/Douglas Area
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 24-30, 2025
Located along the beautiful Kalamazoo River where it meets the Lake Michigan coast, visitors can enjoy fall foliage and waterfront views in the Saugatuck/Douglas area. Now through April 2026, visitors can view the new public art installation, Flower World, by artist Jeffery Augustine Songco. Or enjoy a refreshing outdoor adventure with a hiking trip at Oval Beach and in the surrounding Saugatuck area for views of fall foliage and the lakeshore.
Events
Charity Dinner at Fenn Valley Winery (October 17) | A Journey Through Strings and Stories: Hiroya Tsukamoto (October 17)
Kalamazoo
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26 - November 5, 2025
Visitors can experience all things fall at Gull Meadow Farms with apple-picking, fresh apple cider donuts, farm animals, an epic corn maze, and weekly events. Kalamazoo also offers a multitude of stunning, scenic locations to hike, bike and walk among the gorgeous colors of fall. There are also haunted houses, fall festivals, plenty of delicious foods to try, and many more cozy and spooky events to look forward to in Kalamazoo. Check out the full events calendar to plan the best fall trip!
Events
Flavors of Fall: Color Tour, Buffet, and Bourbon Tasting (October 18) | Haunted History of Kalamazoo Walking Tours (October 24) | Ghost Stories at the New Vic Theatre (Fridays and Saturdays now through November 1)
Southwest Michigan
Fall Color: < 20%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 23-29, 2025
In picturesque Southwest Michigan, enjoy relaxing strolls along Lake Michigan and exciting events downtown in one day. Visitors can participate in the Makers Trail Passport, where they can sip and savor at more than 50 wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries. In the coastal town of St. Joseph, join locals for the new Halloween celebration, the Downtown Spooktacular, that includes hayrides, a Spooktacular Market, a pumpkin patch, magic shows, and more. Or, head to the historic Eden Springs Park for spooky miniature train rides for the whole family to enjoy.
Events
Apple Fest at Round Barn Winery (October 18)
Ann Arbor
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26 - November 5, 2025
The Ann Arbor area is bursting with fall flavors and seasonal delights. At Alber Orchard & Cider Mill in Manchester, enjoy a corn maze, U-pick pumpkin patch, straw maze, hayrides, farm animals, tours of a vintage cider press, and crisp heirloom apples. Get a behind-the-scenes look by watching cider being made, and taste over 100 different apple varieties.
Wasem Fruit Farm in Milan is a family-owned and family-oriented orchard providing visitors with high-quality, delicious products, especially pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and tart cherries. Don’t forget to stock up on tasty homemade, unpasteurized cider and delicious fresh donuts made daily.
Events
Wine, Women, & Shopping in Chelsea (November 7-8)
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Discover More Travel Inspiration
Explore Michigan's State Parks
Michigan is home to 103 state parks where you can create your perfect adventure this fall. Explore thousands of miles of trails, paddle or fish Michigan’s waters, and enjoy seasonal events like Harvest Festivals and spooky happenings. After a day of adventure, enjoy the aroma of a crackling fire under the stars.
Visitors who have red-green colorblindness can use EnChroma-enabled scenic viewers to see fall color more clearly and vibrantly this season. These scenic viewers are located in numerous state parks, including Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in the Upper Peninsula. Explore Michigan state parks →
Interactive Fall Color Prediction Map
Use our interactive Fall Color Map to see projected peak color throughout Michigan’s two peninsulas this fall. Discover your peak fall color prediction →
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