|
Fall Color Report: October 21-27, 2025
Stunning shades of crimson, orange and gold continue to paint the dramatic landscapes and coastlines of Pure Michigan, creating picture-perfect conditions for a memorable getaway. Now is the time to celebrate the harvest season at countless farms and cider mills, explore charming downtowns, and join in spooky and autumnal celebrations with Michigan’s vibrant communities.
|
|
Destinations across the Upper Peninsula are reporting peak fall color this week. Step back in time for carriage rides and Halloween bashes on one of Michigan’s most iconic islands, or take to the skies on a scenic chairlift ride up one of the UP’s ski resort mountains for stunning fall color. Even where peak color has passed, there are endless trails, cozy downtowns, and incredible views waiting to be discovered. |
 Mackinac Island / Photo courtesy of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
|
|
The Keweenaw Peninsula
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 27, 2025
Bluebird fall days, a warm sun and cool breeze has made for lovely late-season kayaking on the Portage or inland lakes like Lac la Belle. Fall color chairlift rides, corn mazes, pumpkin farms and more are all in full swing as fall reaches its finale in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Waterfalls throughout the region are still active, and Hungarian Falls is particularly gorgeous this year, framed in gold leaves.
Events
Haunted Mine: Descent into Madness (October 23-25) | Wolf's Head Film Festival (October 24-25) | MTU Hockey Home Games (Oct 24, 25)
Marquette
Fall Color: Past peak
While peak fall color has passed in the Marquette area, there are still plenty of adventures to discover and spooky celebrations to attend. Enjoy Lake Superior views by hiking some of Marquette’s incredible trails, or breeze through the forest on a bike along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.
Events
Rocky Picture Horror Show (October 23-25) | Trick or Trot 10K/5K & Kids Monster Mile (October 25)
Munising
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 21, 2025
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Munising’s fall foliage is on full display. This is the last week of 2025 to enjoy an unforgettable cruise with Pictured Rocks Cruises to see peak fall color adorn the sandstone cliffs over Lake Superior. On land, hike or bike the Munising Bay Trail Network (MBTN) to explore the area beneath a canopy of fall foliage.
Mackinac Island
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 25, 2025
Voted the No. 1 best spot in the US to visit this fall by USA Today, fall on Mackinac Island is a season of color, calm and classic island charm. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride beneath the changing leaves, explore scenic hiking and biking trails, and step back in time with a visit to the historic Fort Mackinac. Savor fall-inspired flavors at local restaurants and fudge shops, and take in the peaceful beauty of the island before it settles into its winter rest.
Events
Mackinac Island Halloween Weekend (October 24-26)
|
|
Michigan’s northern Lower Peninsula is nearing peak color in some areas, and others are reporting that fall’s splendor is on full display. Discover scenic hikes that lead to unforgettable views, relaxing drives through forests of fall foliage, festivals offering the flavors of the season, and family-friendly Halloween celebrations. |
 Scenic chairlift rides / Photo courtesy of Crystal Mountain
|
|
The Petoskey Area
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 27, 2025
The Petoskey Area is reporting peak fall color this week! Check out the Deadman’s Hill Overlook in Elmira – just south of Boyne Falls! This scenic overlook is easy to access from the parking area, with a short walk that leads to a gorgeous view of the Jordan River Valley. If you’re looking for a beautiful journey with great stops along the way, drive the iconic Tunnel of Trees, or another scenic route in the Petoskey Area.
For incredible views at night, visit the nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park on a cloudless night for some stargazing – maybe catch the Orionid meteors or the otherworldly northern lights.
Events
Gypsy Distillery’s Halloween Bash (October 24) | Halloween at the Inn at Bay Harbor (October 24 - November 1) | Fall Fest Weekends at Pond Hill Farm (October 25-26)
Traverse City
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 26, 2025
Traverse City is showcasing incredible fall color this week and offers a variety of unique ways to experience the best of the season, from fall wagon rides at Black Star Farms to scenic chairlift rides at Crystal Mountain.
Events
17th Annual Zombie 5K Run (October 25) | Downtown Traverse City Halloween Walk (October 25) | Traverse City Beer Week (November 7-15)
Manistee County
Fall Color: 60-80%
Inland Peak Color Estimate: Now through October 25, 2025
Coastal Peak Color Estimate: October 23-25, 2025
Autumn in Manistee County is a stunning time to explore Michigan’s natural beauty. Visitors can hike or bike through the vibrant forests along trails like the Big M Recreation Area or the North Country Trail, where the fall colors are especially breathtaking. A scenic drive along M-22 or the Manistee River Trail offers panoramic views of fiery red and golden leaves reflecting off the water. For a cozy seasonal experience, travelers can also visit local orchards and farm markets to enjoy fresh cider, donuts and pumpkin picking while taking in the crisp autumn air.
Events
Cider, Wine & Beer Pairings at Northern Natural (October 25) | Downtown Manistee's Fall Festival (October 25) | Whoville Haunted Pumpkin Path (October 25) | Ghost Ship on the SS City of Milwaukee (Fridays and Saturdays in October)
Cadillac Area
Fall Color: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 23-28, 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 Fun at Dick Family Farm (October 24) | Fall Color Tour 2025 (October 16) | Maple Hill Cemetery Tours (October 25) | Moonlit Corn Maze at Dick Family Farm (October 31) |
West Branch
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 27, 2025
Located in northern Michigan, West Branch offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. Just north of town, hike and bike the Ogemaw Hills Pathway in the AuSable State Forest to enjoy incredible fall color and crisp autumn air. You can experience fall foliage by gliding across inland lakes or the Rifle River in a kayak or canoe, or go on a scenic driving fall color tour.
Events
O R B GeoTour: A Geocaching Adventure (ongoing)
Crystal Mountain
Fall Color: 80-100%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: Now through October 27, 2025
Visit Crystal Mountain for autumn adventures and activities during the Scarecrow Walk, where you can vote for your favorite scarecrow crafted by creative Crystal Mountain employees. 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) | Longevity Challenge (October 25) | Final Fall Fun Weekend (October 25-26)
|
|
Michigan’s central Lower Peninsula is nearing peak fall color, though some areas may still have beautiful fall foliage into November. Explore incredible gardens and festive zoos, savor the flavors of the season at farms and orchards, or go on an unforgettable outdoor adventure to immerse yourself in autumn’s beautiful hues. |
 Hiking in Mt. Pleasant / Photo courtesy of the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
|
|
Silver Lake
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26 - November 2, 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
Trick or Treating in the Silver Lake Sand Dunes (October 25) | 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: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26-31, 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.
Presented by Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, Hike the Lights is a free outdoor event where visitors can explore lighted hiking trails after dark along routes like the White Night Trail, Pete's Path, and Lost Lake Trail. Families can enjoy pumpkin picking, seasonal games, and outdoor adventures with over 25 attractions at Weesies Brothers Farms. Highlights include a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, mini golf, Toddler Town, a corn maze, and more.
Events
Harvest Fest at Culinary Institute of Michigan (October 23) | Haunted Art Party at dooGallery (October 23) | Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary (October 24)
Grand Rapids
Fall Color: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 29 – November 4, 2025
With peak fall color just around the corner in the Grand Rapids area, visitors can find a rainbow of seasonal colors and beyond at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Now through October 31, visit Mums at Meijer Gardens to explore Michigan’s largest display of chrysanthemums.
Celebrate the harvest season with visits to local farms like Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery, offering apple picking, hayrides, cider, donuts and a corn maze. Other great stops include Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm, The Orchards at Red Barn, and Farmhaus Farms. Just minutes away from downtown, explore additional farm markets on the Fruit Ridge, one of the world’s top apple-growing regions.
Events
Zoo Goes Boo (October 24, 25, 26) | Mums at Meijer Gardens (now through October 31) | The Great Pumpkin Train (October 25, 26)
Mt. Pleasant
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 28, 2025
In Mount Pleasant, take a fall float or paddle down the 72-mile-long Chippewa River to soak up beautiful maroon and gold hues. Or play a round of disc golf at one of the Deerfield Nature Park courses. Deerfield Nature Park also offers over 8 miles of hiking and biking trails that weave you around the Chippewa River.
Events
Thriller Dance Workshop at Art Reach of Mid-Michigan (October 24) | Central Michigan University Homecoming against University of Massachusetts (October 25) | Shepherd Pumpkin Display (October 26-31)
Frankenmuth
Fall Color: 60-80%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 27-31, 2025
Explore the storybook charm of Michigan’s Little Bavaria as fall color develop through the area. Take a stroll down Main Street or throughout Frankenmuth River Place Shops for some sweater weather shopping and take in the beauty of the fall colors – and all the Scarecrows too!
Events
Farm Fright Nights at Grandpa Tiny's Farm (October 24-25) | The Frankenmuth Corn Maze at Weiss Centennial Farm (October 24-26) | Scarecrow Fest at Frankenmuth River Place Shops (October 25-26)
|
|
From cozy coastal escapes to historic and artsy downtowns, visitors can craft the perfect fall getaway in Michigan’s southern Lower Peninsula. Peak fall color is expected late October to early November for most of the region, but there are endless festivities, flavors and frights to be discovered as fall foliage continues to develop. |
 Wiard’s Orchard / Photo courtesy of Destination Ann Arbor
|
|
Ann Arbor
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26 - November 5, 2025
The Ann Arbor area is bursting with fall flavors and seasonal delights, and no trip is complete without cider and donuts. Wiard’s Orchard (Ypsilanti), Dexter Cider Mill, Alber Orchard (Manchester), and Wasem Fruit Farm (Milan) will all satisfy your craving for fresh-pressed cider and warm donuts – with plenty of apple trees and pumpkin patches for U-Pick adventures!
Events
Thrills at the Mills (October 25) | Wine, Women, & Shopping in Chelsea (November 7-8) | Original Kroger A2 Turkey Trot (November 9)
Saugatuck/Douglas Area
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 23-30, 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
Spooky Self-Guided Tours at the Felt Mansion (October 22) | Dykstra Evening at the Parlor: Funeral History (October 23) | Nightmare on Blue Star Presents: Goth and Glamour (October 25)
Battle Creek Area
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 26 – November 1, 2025
Beautiful fall color continues to paint the trees in Battle Creek with warm hues of red, gold and orange. Visit Station 66, a country store set in a 1940s gas station packed with autumnal charms like pumpkins, mums and sugary donuts. Visitors can also go on their own “cozy fall crawl” in the Battle Creek area, which begins at Bosserd Family Farm in historic Marshall and ends with a cozy night staying at the National House Inn Bed & Breakfast, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Events
Glizzy Fest: Battle Creek's Hot Dog Competition (October 25) | Haunted Adventure (25, 26) | CRAWL-O-WEEN (November 1)
Kalamazoo
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: November 10-17, 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
Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary with Live Shadow Cast (October 25) | Tricks and Trails at the Kalamazoo Nature Center (October 31) | Ghost Stories at the New Vic Theatre (Fridays and Saturdays now through November 1)
South Haven
Fall Color: 40-60%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 29 – November 4, 2025
Enjoy an autumn escape to South Haven on the shores of Lake Michigan. Overhiser Orchards offer more than fresh air and ripe apples – they’re the perfect backdrop for quality time with family. Whether you’re making memories with little ones or stealing a crisp afternoon with someone special, a stroll through the rows of apple trees sets the pace for a day well spent.
Events
Kid's Halloween Spooktacular Maritime Adventure (October 23) | The Headless Horseman Rides Again (October 25)
Southwest Michigan
Fall Color: 20-40%
Estimated Peak Fall Color: October 27-31, 2025
In picturesque Southwest Michigan, enjoy relaxing strolls along Lake Michigan and exciting events downtown in one day. In Niles, join trained docents for a tour of the Historic Chapin Mansion, which was built in 1882. In Benton Harbor, make memories with the whole family with a trip to the historic Eden Springs Park for spooky miniature train rides.
Events
Noktoberfest (November 1)
|
|
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. 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 →
|
|
|
|
|
