Welcome to Week 10 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula.
Regional area details are below the main notes, just scroll down the page.
Good day to you. There is some good news for fall colors, that is we have hit peak fall colors in the Upper Peninsula, but yet are another 5 days to a week from 80% color to peak in the rest of the Upper Peninsula. That warm weather really set us back, if it wasn't for that and the rain that came shortly after we would be seeing peak color through the entire Upper Peninsula already and currently be going through peak in the remaining areas. If you are seeking to see some good color I wouldn't wait to much longer after this weekend to hit the Upper Peninsula. The rainfall and high winds we have been seeing has knocked many leaves off the trees already and things are looking a little more bare in some areas. Overall today through Saturday will still be good color views, especially along Lake Superior as those areas will hit peak this weekend. Areas in the southern UP and some areas in the eastern UP may still see good color up through the 15th of the month, but expect plenty of leaf loss as well. Thank you all for visiting and viewing the U.P. Fall Color Report page.
Join a Guided Fall Color Tour with Upper Peninsula Tours is a great way to see fall colors, hidden waterfalls, big scenic views, and historic sites.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind this report is a guide and in no way totally inclusive of every spot for fall color in the Upper Peninsula. I drive hundreds of miles each week across the U.P. viewing the fall colors and it is physically impossible to be in all places and analyze every area. The best times to come up for fall color if you weren't even to pay attention to the fall color report would be the last 4 days of September and the first 4 days of October. Keep in mind color change happens slowly along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake of the Clouds overlook, Brockway Mountain, Pictured Rocks, Whitefish Point, Mackinac Island, and Drummond Island. Some of these areas can be two weeks behind the interior portions of the Western UP, Northern UP, and Central UP. Also the Southern UP can be up to 1 week and in some cases 2 weeks behind as well. If you wait until after October 10th any year you will almost always be viewing mostly browns, yellows, and a few remaining trees with any color left, it isn't to say after October 10th there isn't nice color, but historically after Oct 10th peak color season is usually done for.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 70% to peak color
Most of the western UP are 80% TO peak color now. There are areas very close to Lake Superior that will be hitting peak color by this weekend. Lake of the Clouds has now reached 70% color this past weekend, and will be reaching peak color sometime mid week possibly around Friday due to the couple days of warm weather, but then those cool temps return with a chance of snow through the weekend. From M38 jct to Ontonagon color is around 70% with some areas peak more to the south. Trap hills along the North Country trail and Ontonagon river valley are at peak color right now with the only trees now to hit peak are the aspens and birch with some oak still halfway into color change. The ridgeline around Mass City was about 70% color, expect peak around mid week. South Boundary road to Hwy 519 is awesome right now, wasn't peak at most areas along the route but will be peak by mid week. Views from Summit peak look to be peak color with some green patches yet, but mostly at 80% - peak color as of today. Views from Copper Peak are amazing right now, if you aren't there by this weekend expect a lot of dull color, it is peak right now, but either way anytime you get to the top of the viewing deck you'll have one of the most amazing views in the Midwest. Areas around Wakefield and Bessemer are great right now with peak colors in most of the areas with a little undergrowth still a bit green and yellow yet, but should be yellow in the understory by weekend. Views around Lake Gogebic are awesome now, very close to peak color as of around Thursday, so color should be hitting peak today through Thursday. Most of the maples have turned now and are at close to or at peak. Watersmeet to Paulding and Bond falls is a great drive now, lots of color, still some green patches yet, but still a good drive. Great color now around Bond falls as of a few days ago, expect the best color within the next couple days. Agate falls views from the trestle are awesome now lots of treetops with color, the view of the falls is sweet now with the color surrounding it.
NOTE: there will still be decent color, through this weekend across most of the Western UP, if coming after this weekend don't expect there to be to much rich color though, if we continue to get those high winds there will be significant leaf loss. Snow and cold expected Saturday and Sunday across the far western Upper Peninsula.


Northern UP 50% to peak color
The northen Upper Peninsula is amazing right now. The northern UP has to be my favorite area to view fall colors. There are so many lookout spots that are so close to each other with little driving, plus you have many different shoreline views along Lake Superior along the Keweenaw. If you haven't ever been to the northern UP for fall colors, one trip and you'll probably agree as well. Anyway color is mostly peak now along the interior portions with areas along Lake Superior around 60% to 70%. Views from Brockway mountain in Copper Harbor are amazing right now lots of color, southern portions were the best in color saturation as of the weekend. The eastern views off the east lookout over to East Bluff had color with a bit of green still, but by the middle of the week expect around 80% color then by the weekend it should fill in with peak color. This week and early into the weekend will be prime time viewing on top of Brockway. I would say the best viewing north of Calumet will be the best mid week into the weekend. Areas south of Houghton from South Range to Mass city along M26 are now into peak color, the understory was about 50% color in the thick forests. There are some beautiful views along some of the lakes and ponds around Twin Lakes, Donken, and Toivola. Tapiola road to M38 Pelkie was a great drive with mostly peak color a few areas still around 70% but expect full color this week. From the M38/M26 jct to Baraga is great now, mostly peak and some areas have a good amount of leaf loss. The views from Silver Mountain were great with about 80% color, peak color by midweek. L'Anse to Skanee is a great drive right now, views along the way are at around 80% color with many areas more interior in the Huron Mountains are at peak. Herman and Alberta are now at peak color. Driving along US41 from L'Anse to Covington jct is peak with lots of leaf loss with areas of past peak. Views from Mt. Arvon (highest peak in Michigan) show peak to past peak with views extending to the Keweenaw (45mile view) on a clear day. Don't wait to much longer to view these colors, if you wait to much longer after the 12th you won't be getting the best views.


Central UP 50% to peak color
The central Upper Peninsula is anywhere from 50% color up to peak color in the interior. Areas along Lake Superior around Marquette, Big Bay, and Harvey have a little bit to go yet. Views from Sugarloaf and Hogsback are pretty good now with color north being around 50%. There was plenty of green right along Lake Superior around the 5th, by midweek we should see the colors along the water really starting to change. I would say early next week would be a great time to hike to Sugarloaf and Hogsback if you are looking for the best color, even into next weekend there should still be a little color to be seen. Areas around Negaunee and Ishpeming are now reaching 80% to peak color. Areas as far west as Michigamme and Three Lakes are at peak color with plenty of leaf loss. Views around Three Lakes and Lake Michigamme are very colorful. Drives along M35 south to Gwinn was really colorful some color still to go but overall a great drive. South along 553 from Marquette to 4 Corners was very nice. Views up on the ski hill are pretty nice now, this week is prime time for the color views. You can get in some nice views atop Mount Marquette access the top just before the bridge over the Carp River off US41, just follow the sign to the top. There are two different lookouts to get a view, the second is the most visited viewing site. The drives along County roads 550 and 510 are really nice right now, plenty of color, lots of understory has a way to go with color change, but it should be very colorful around this weekend. Make sure to stop all the waterfalls along the way, there are over 50 to stop at. Harvey to Munising is nice now, most of your color along the way is closer to Munising around Rock River area. If you head south along any of the roads off M28 you'll find plenty of color. Around Munising close to Lake Superior there is still about 50% color it hit about 60% color in some patches, more color more interior. Expect peak sometime this weekend and early next week around Monday or Tuesday along the lakeshore. There is some nice color along US41 from Harvey to Rapid River, be sure to stop in Trenary for some Trenary toast, a UP staple. From US41 to Munising along M94 the color is great, still some areas with 50% color but most are around 70% color with some areas near 90% color. If you are driving along this road you need to stop at Au Train falls, Laughing Whitefish falls, and Wagner falls, if you don't you're missing out on some sweet adventures.


Eastern UP 50%-70% color
The color is now getting pretty good to the east now areas closer to Lake Superior are around 50% at least they were this weekend. By this coming weekend expect color to be reaching 70% at least. More color interior the more south you go. Views around Grand Marais were around 50% color. From Shingleton to Newberry there was good color still a few spots with green but by this weekend color should hit peak. From Seney to Blaney park color is around 60-70%. Views around Crisp Point lighthouse are pretty colorful was around 40% color earlier in the week last week, around this weekend color should be near 80% along Lake Superior. If there was a week to visit Tahquamenon falls I would say this week would be the best even into the weekend, expect it to be the busiest of the year there so parking is going to be difficult from 12noon to 6pm, car pool if you can with a friend. The color around the Soo is good but peak probably won't be there until early next week, maybe even mid week color should still be good depends on the weather really. Heading into the far eastern UP color is sporadic with some good patches of color but still plenty of green. The warm weather has killed the best color and things probably won't get to much better before it starts turning brown and before leaf loss really hits. There are some nice areas along US2, color is nice around the Cut River bridge now, it's always a fun stop for many people, myself I enjoy the lookout views closer to the Mackinac Bridge a little bit better. Peak will be around the 10th-12th in the interior portions, with the remaining areas seeing peak hit around the 15th.

Southern UP 50-70% color
Most areas in the southern UP are around 50% color. The best colors should be after this weekend into next week a lot depends on the weather. There is still plenty of color in the southern UP if you are traveling through there or going to be visiting. Peak color should be about mid week into next weekend in the southern Upper Peninsula.

Welcome to Week 9 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula.
Regional area details are below the main notes, just scroll down the page.
That warm weather 2 weeks ago really affected the color tremendously. Things have gotten very dingy and dull in many places due to the warm weather and rains. What were good colors starting a couple weeks ago has turned into dull browns and subdued hues of red, orange, and yellows. Areas near Lake Superior has virtually seen no change in color and or a reverse color change, yes it can happen. What happens is that trees that were starting to shut down, they were in the beginning stages of color change, that rain and warmer weather tricked the trees that it wasn't time to shut down yet, so chlorophyll started being produced again and leaves turn green again. Trees that were further ahead in becoming dormant weren't affected so much but the leaves of these trees started to burn up and turn dull, the leaves on the trees started to dry out and fall off. The good news is that there will still be some good color, especially along Lake Superior where things are still green. More interior areas of the Upper Peninsula where color change was already 60-70% color change already won't see to many more bright colors as they were further along. This week we will start seeing a lot of leaf loss in those areas, especially as the winds start picking up and we get some more rain. If you are still hoping to get up to the Upper Peninsula for fall colors you'll still have good color to view and be entering peak color in many areas a bit later now. We have had a few days this last week with cooler weather now, we shouldn't see to many warm nights that causes any more issues with color change. You get to a certain point in October and all the trees just suddendly change color and drop their leaves. Usually it isn't to much longer after about the middle of the month the majority of trees have lost their leaves. I will be very brief this week for the regional reports, so if you want to go back and read last week the color will be about the same with minor notes here in week 9 for the regions. Thank you all for visiting and viewing the U.P. Fall Color Report page.
Join a Fall Color Tour with Upper Peninsula Tours is a great way to see fall colors, hidden waterfalls, big scenic views, and historic sites. One thing to be aware of in fall colors, is the reds come and go quickly, usually when color gets to be around 70% the reds start falling off the trees and you're left with mostly oranges and yellows and bare trees.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind this report is a guide and in no way totally inclusive of every spot for fall color in the Upper Peninsula. I drive hundreds of miles each week across the U.P. viewing the fall colors and it is physically impossible to be in all places and analyze every area. The best times to come up for fall color if you weren't even to pay attention to the fall color report would be the last 4 days of September and the first 4 days of October. Keep in mind color change happens slowly along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake of the Clouds overlook, Brockway Mountain, Pictured Rocks, Whitefish Point, Mackinac Island, and Drummond Island. Some of these areas can be two weeks behind the interior portions of the Western UP, Northern UP, and Central UP. Also the Southern UP can be up to 1 week and in some cases 2 weeks behind as well. If you wait until after October 10th any year you will almost always be viewing mostly browns, yellows, and a few remaining trees with any color left, it isn't to say after October 10th there isn't nice color, but historically after Oct 10th peak color season is usually done for.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 45-70% overall
Not much change from last week other than more dull color has appeared and in some instances colors have been reversed. There has been progression but not a lot due to that warmer weather and rainfall we saw. Lake of the Clouds has seen a slight change up to about 60% color change on the southern side and up to 40% on the north side. Views from Copper Peak are about the same as last week showing about 50% color. Peak color in the western UP has been set back at least a week now to around Oct 6th-10th.


Northern UP 40-70% overall
Through the northern area of the Upper Peninsula there hasn't been to much color change. There has been a few changes along Portage Lake with color now around 50%, most of the change from last weeks report has come in the last 4 days with the cooler weather. Up in the Copper Harbor area views from Brockway Mtn are still pretty green with a slight up tick in color the last few days, expect there to be good color after this weekend. Areas from Mohawk to Delaware are a bit more dull with little color change from last week. Outside Houghton from Painesdale to the Firesteel bridges color hasn't changed much, if anything it is more dull and dingy, a few good patches here and there. From Greenland to Ontonagon you can see more yellows but it's a pretty dull drive for color. Around L'Anse and Skanee there is decent color but again things have gotten dingy and bland. From L'Anse to Covington Jct color is fading and leaves are starting to loose leaves and color is about done for, another week and leaf loss will be very noticable. Some areas are now at 75% color and some are only around 30% closer to Lake Superior. By Oct 6th-12th color should be hitting its max and leaf loss well underway.


Central UP 30-60% overall
Anywhere near Lake Superior is still very green, color has really stalled and been set back in some cases. Areas out near Michigamme has seen color halted and color turn slightly dull. South of Ishpeming and Marquette colors have progressed a little. For the most part things haven't changed much other than a bit more dull color. Brightness has left and might not return other than in the trees closer to the Lake which haven't reached 50% color yet, so those areas should be nice to take in a fall color drive or hike. Your best times to take in views from Sugarloaf, Hogsback, and Thomas Rock should be after this weekend. From Oct 6th-15th we should be seeing max color and leaf loss should be well underway.


Eastern UP 40-50% color overall
Things haven't changed much. Peak has been set back about a week and closer to Lake Superior may be around the 10th-12th.

Southern UP 30-40% color overall
Peak should be around the middle of the month, possible sooner if the cool weather sticks around.

Welcome to Week 8 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula.
Regional area details are below the main notes, just scroll down the page.
Last week you would have thought it was summer with temps reaching into the low 80s a couple of days and temps only dropping into the low 70s in the evening. What a beautiful week it was, no complaints here and I am certain not a complaint from any human. The warm days have certainly slowed down the amount of color change this week, sometimes that happens, but it didn't affect those areas with areas to much where color had already hit 50% or more last week. The areas along Lake Superior and Lake Michigan remained roughly the same as last week. This week I gave another 10% to most areas, there were some areas which I saw a greater percentage of change closer to 15%. The 10 day forecast looks to have our temps dropping by about 15-20 degrees both daytime and evening, with mostly sunny days which is prime for those color changes. Some areas that are currently in the 60%-70% zone for color this week should be hitting 80% to peak color from Sept 25th to Sept 30th. Those in the 40%-60% zone should be hitting 80% peak by October 5th. Those areas in the 20%-40% zone should be seeing 80%-peak by October 10th-12th, with a possible quicker peak depending on how cool temps get in those areas. There is color all throughout the UP now, some areas of course better than others. If you're waiting to get up to the Upper Peninsula that second week of October, you'll most likely be left with a lot of leaf loss and mostly yellows, there could still be some decent color in Copper Harbor, Marquette, Munising, and in the southern UP, overall things will still be colorful, just not as thick and multicolored as hitting peak. Thank you all for visiting and viewing the U.P. Fall Color Report page.
Join a Fall Color Tour with Upper Peninsula Tours is a great way to see fall colors, hidden waterfalls, big scenic views, and historic sites. One thing to be aware of in fall colors, is the reds come and go quickly, usually when color gets to be around 70% the reds start falling off the trees and you're left with mostly oranges and yellows and bare trees.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind this report is a guide and in no way totally inclusive of every spot for fall color in the Upper Peninsula. I drive hundreds of miles each week across the U.P. viewing the fall colors and it is physically impossible to be in all places and analyze every area. The best times to come up for fall color if you weren't even to pay attention to the fall color report would be the last 4 days of September and the first 4 days of October. Keep in mind color change happens slowly along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake of the Clouds overlook, Brockway Mountain, Pictured Rocks, Whitefish Point, Mackinac Island, and Drummond Island. Some of these areas can be two weeks behind the interior portions of the Western UP, Northern UP, and Central UP. Also the Southern UP can be up to 1 week and in some cases 2 weeks behind as well. If you wait until after October 10th any year you will almost always be viewing mostly browns, yellows, and a few remaining trees with any color left, it isn't to say after October 10th there isn't nice color, but historically after Oct 10th peak color season is usually done for.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 35-70% overall
Much of the western UP is well under way for color change. Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield areas are looking a bit better this week even with the warmer temps we saw. Copper Peak views this week showed around 50-60% color earlier in the week, should be around 65-70% now. Nice color on the hills and roadsides now around Greenland and Mass City, still plenty of green yet, much of the undergrowth is still green. Backroads have some nice colors with that contrasting green, very pretty. There is a lot of yellow heading down Hwy 45 to Bruce Crossing with some nice color now around Okun de kun falls trailhead off of Hwy45. From Greenland to Ontonagon there is a lot of green yet, and hues of yellow starting. Most of the color is after Greenland and after Silver City to the entrance to the Porcupine Mountains. Hwy 64 going south to Bergland from White Pine south to Bergland has some real nice color now, you can really see it on the Trap Hills as you're past White Pine. Views at Bonanza falls are still pretty green, wait until this weekend and early next week if you want nice fall color photos there, water levels are low though, careful on the rocks they are slippery. Heading into the Porkies you'll see East Vista filled with yellows, oranges, and reds, filled in about 40% early in the week and now hitting 50% color as of a couple days ago. The drive up to Lake of the Clouds you'll notice the color change as you rise in elevation, it isn't until you reach about 1000 ft that things start getting more yellow and filling in. Based on your drive up the road on your way to Lake of the Clouds overlook you would expect the views to be very green. Wrong, there is now about 50% color on the southern side of Carp River and Lake of the Clouds, with about 25%-30% color on the north side (Lake Superior side), the Escarpment trail side. All those I had talked to said it was an amazing view and they really enjoyed the greens mixed in. By the end of the week, greens will be fading into yellow and oranges, reds will start to fade. Expect Lake of the Clouds to hit 80% - peak around Oct 1st to Oct 4th. South Boundary road has some good color now, especially after you reach the curve at Nonesuch. Continue to Summit peak for good views now through peak color. Not as much color on the western side at Presque Isle River, colorful views should start appearing this weekend through Oct 5th-8th. Sunday Lake in Wakefield you could see the color really filling in this week, you can see the hills and bluffs to the west if you're at the eastern side of the Lake, really a nice view. Wakefield to Watersmeet color was filling in, things are more yellow this week from a couple weeks ago, most of your color is closer to Wakefield along US2. Around Lake Gogebic and Bergland the color is filling in nicely along the shoreline and backroads. Hwy 45 from Watersmeet to Bruce Crossing color is nice now, there are some really nice views along this stretch with some good reds appearing. Bond Falls is starting to pop now, some good color photos should be this weekend into next week. Bruce Crossing to Covington has a lot of color now, take some of the backroads for some views. US 141 from Covington south is a good drive.
In the Western UP expect colors to be hitting 80% to peak around Sept 25th to Oct 1st, there will still even be decent color up to Oct 5th. By October 10th things will start fading and leaves will start falling off the trees, leaf loss being around 25%.

Northern UP 30-70% overall
Copper Harbor looks good but not near peak yet, perhaps around 40% color south maybe 50% in some areas. The the east and west sides are around 30-40%, expect things to hit around 50% by this weekend into 60% color. Views coming down the hills at Gratiot Lake and Lac La Belle are nice, but not as nice as they will be by the weekend, still green down on the lower elevations and near Lake Superior. Along Gratiot Lake there are nice patches of color. US41 covered road is looking good now, you can't go wrong with this drive now through October 5th. From Phoenix to Calumet along US41 is really nice, lots of color for even a fall color fanatic like myself. Cliff drive isn't close to peak yet, it is one of my favorite roads to take in the Keweenaw, there are however some nice colors along this stretch now. From the snow thermometer to Calumet there are plenty of reds and oranges. Those on an ORV will see some amazing colors along Trail 3. Lake Superior side around Gay and Rice Lake there are some nice patches. Around Lake Linden and Traprock valley there are some good views of color change now. Take a ride up the hills from Traprock valley and look back to the east, amazing indeed. From Lake Linden to Hancock the color is very nice now, some good color along Torch lake and heading into Dollar Bay driving around Point Mills there are some good patches of color. Best color view south of Houghton now is from Painesdale to Firesteel bridges. Color is at 50-60% now and hitting 70%-80% this week with peak not far behind. Nice color drive north of L'Anse around Skanee, Aura, and out to Point Abbaye. If in the Huron Mountains you'll see lots of colors now, you should take a ride up to Mount Arvon, which is Michigan's highest point. L'Anse to Covington Jct is great now, better as your elevation increases. Plumbago lake is looking good for photo ops, hint, hint, a very photogenic scene indeed. Canyon falls is a good hike now with the colors changing. The hills along US41 are filling with color, this area goes peak quickly one of the first in the UP. Covington Jct to Covington is nice, lots of color near Worm Lake and the Jct.
Peak color season is coming quickly in the northern UP, expecting most areas in the north to be 80% to peak color from Sept 25th to Oct 1st. Some areas along Lake Superior and the Portage Canal may hit peak even 1 week up to 8 days later than interior. There will still even be decent color up to Oct 5th-8th. By October 10th things will start fading and leaves will start falling off the trees, leaf loss being around 25%.

Central UP 25-60% overall
Good color now in the central UP especially west and south of Marquette. Areas around Marquette a few miles in from Lake Superior are still pretty green. Views from Sugarloaf and Hogsback still around 25% color, it isn't until around 35-40% color you really start seeing the changes, the warm weather this last weekly really halted that color change. If you're seeking color this week you must head west along US41 outside of Negaunee and Ishpeming are the best colors, take some backroads, and explore a bit. Teal lake colors still around 35-40%. South of the towns are better colors or north around Deer Lake, and Dead River Basin. North of Marquette in a few miles from 550 the color is better. Views from Thomas rock to the west and south are filling in with color, another week of cool temps should give you around 50% color up to 60%. Around Munising it's fairly green still, interior is better of course. Head down towards Boot Lake if you want your color fix or Rock River falls. South on US41 towards Trenary to Gladstone color is looking good, still a bit to peak but not a bad drive. Color is nice now from US41 along M94 through Chatham to Munising. Of course there are some good views always no matter the season at Laughing Whitefish falls and Au Train Falls.
Colors should be reaching 80% to peak from Sept 27th - Oct 5th. Some areas closer to Lake Superior will be behind by almost 2 weeks.

Eastern UP 30-50% color overall
I will be posting update later tonight on eastern UP. Check back after 11pm tonight.

Southern UP 25-35% color overall
I will be posting update later tonight on southern UP. Check back after 11pm tonight.

Welcome to Week 7 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Usually by week 7 of the U.P. Fall Color Report by FunintheUP.com color season is in full swing. Color change is right on schedule again compared to last year, I think those few cool days and just a little bit of rain helped snap those trees out of the funk they were in. Things are looking nice now, just goes to show you that you can never tell what the weather will do in the UP and how things can change quickly in the Upper Peninsula. We are slightly ahead on the progression but not to much, it won't be as noticeable this week as the few warm days Monday, Tues, and Wednesday will slightly keep things slow moving. It doesn't appear that we will be getting back into the low 40s at night for at least another 8-10 days and that may actually set things back from our steady increase in color. This will mostly affect those areas along Lake Superior and lower elevations that change a bit slower. We should start seeing some areas of the Upper Peninsula hitting 60-70% this week while others will just start reaching 30%. If you want to see some decent fall colors this week stick with the Western UP or Northern UP. Join a Fall Color Tour with Upper Peninsula Tours is a great way to see fall colors, hidden waterfalls, big scenic views, and historic sites. One thing to be aware of in fall colors, is the reds come and go quickly, usually when color gets to be around 70% the reds start falling off the trees and you're left with mostly oranges and yellows and bare trees.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind this report is a guide and in no way totally inclusive of every spot for fall color in the Upper Peninsula. I drive hundreds of miles each week across the U.P. viewing the fall colors and it is physically impossible to be in all places and analyze every area. The best times to come up for fall color if you weren't even to pay attention to the fall color report would be the last 4 days of September and the first 4 days of October. Keep in mind color change happens slowly along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake of the Clouds overlook, Brockway Mountain, Pictured Rocks, Whitefish Point, Mackinac Island, and Drummond Island. Some of these areas can be two weeks behind the interior portions of the Western UP, Northern UP, and Central UP. Also the Southern UP can be up to 1 week and in some cases 2 weeks behind as well. If you wait until after October 10th any year you will almost always be viewing mostly browns, yellows, and a few remaining trees with any color left, it isn't to say after October 10th there isn't nice color, but historically after Oct 10th peak color season is usually done for.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 30-50% overall
Great color starting to happen in the western side of the Upper Peninsula. Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield areas are looking good. Visit Copper Peak for some amazing colors this next week, even now you'll notice plenty of color to satisfy. County Road 519 from Wakefield to the Porkies has some good color now. South Boundary Road that takes you through the Porcupine Mountains State Park has some good color really starting this past week, especially after you pass the turn off for Summit Peak. Summit Peak views are always nice, stop there if you haven't ever before. Of course most peoples experience and their first experience in the Porkies is Lake of the Clouds overlook. There are now some nice patches starting, you can't help but notice the change this week. There won't be to many more reds developing, this view gives you mostly yellows and oranges, most of the reds are in the lower eleavations or along South Boundary road. The Porkies are one of the most popular fall color destinations in the entire Midwest, if you're visiting keep this in mind for booking your stay at areas cabins and hotels. Victoria Dam and the Ontonagon River areas around Rockland have some nice color, there are a few high points that I enjoy viewing colors from one is the Victoria mine tailings pile, old Michigan Mine site outside Rockland, and Victoria Dam Overlook. There are some good colors right around Greenland and Mass City now as you head down to Ontonagon colors don't really pop until you get to around Green and Silver City. Some nice colors off Hwy 45 before Bruce Crossing. Bruce Corssing to Bergland there is a bit more color this week along the farmers fields. It isn't start getting towards Bergland around Lake Gogebic that colors really start getting better. South on Hwy 45 to Bond Falls is getting better each week, be sure to stop at one of Michigan's great waterfalls, Bond Falls, next week should be the best though, even next week should be still good color. Watersmeet to Wakefield has gotten better, more yellow for sure, but the reds aren't as prevalant. You'll start seeing better colors closer to Wakefield. On Sunday Lake you can now start seeing the color filling in along the shoreline and along the hill tops. In the Western UP expect colors to be hitting 80% to peak around Sept 25th to Oct 1st, there will still even be decent color up to Oct 5th. By October 10th things will start fading and leaves will start falling off the trees, leaf loss being around 25%.

Northern UP 30-50% overall
Starting up in Copper Harbor this week, we see a bit more color, still fairly green from views at Brockway, but there is more yellow now appearing to the south and south western areas of the Keweenaw ridgeline. The overlook looking back to Lake Superior and Fort Wilkins is a bit more green. US41 from Copper Harbor to Phoenix is pretty nice now, some good color in the tunnel of trees and from Delaware to Phoenix. M26 along Lake Superior still isn't that exciting yet if you're seeking fall color, but that isn't way you drive that stretch anyway, it is for Lake Superior and the cool breeze, crashing waves, and epic sunsets you get. Driving from Eagle River to Ahmeek on 5 mile point road has some good color especially past Sand Hills Lighthouse. Heading over to Bete Grise and Lac La Belle area, around the Lake there is a bit of color showing up, not a lot along Lake Superior still until you start getting further in past Rice Lake. Views from Mount Houghton, Mount Bohemia, and Bare Bluff are always nice. From Mount Houghton and Bohemia you can see the layers of color nicely now, give it another week and things should really start popping. Outside Houghton heading into South Range and Painesdale you can really start to notice the color change, it really is starting to pop now, looking over the hills towards the east you can see lots of color change, what a great view this gives you of the surrounding areas south of Houghton. Nice color along M26 from Painesdale to Firesteel rivers, always a favorite drive. The big trees in Toivola really have some color now, heading to Agate Beach and Misery Bay there are some nice reds popping up. Between Houghton and Chassell it has turned colorful. Tapiola road to M38 has some good color now, always a nice drive in the fall. M38 there are some nice patches around Bob Lake turn off. The Sturgeon River Sloughs have many trees with no leaves but there are still some nice reds that are very colorful, worth a picture or two, stop at the lookout tower there and take in the views. Around L'Anse there are some nice trees and lots of color. Heading out towards Skanee you'll see plenty of color change, an awesome view is coming down the hill just before the Silver River looking into the Huron Mountains. Along the roads in Aura and out to Point Abbaye there is color but still not a lot. If you are heading towards Big Ericks bridge you'll see some nice yellows and some reds, if you are this far why not head to the mouth of the Huron River for some beautiful views of the Huron Islands. The upper elevations in the Huron Mountains are very colorful. Ravine river road is very colorful, the same with Arvon road from L'Anse that takes you into the Slate River. Lots of color in these higher elevations, you can see it from the lookout at Mt Arvon (highest point in Michigan). Driving on US41 from L'Anse to Covington Jct you'll notice lots of color now, the higher in elevation the more color. Stopping at Canyon Falls is always a good thing to do, nice color around the rivers edge. The color along the hills at Lake Plumbago are looking good, and expecting the best color coming by the weekend into early next week, then it will be hitting peak. The color around Covington Jct is great, some bright color here. Driving from Covington Jct to Agate Falls there are some good colors now, some good stretches here, be sure to stop at Agate Falls Scenic Site for one of the best waterfalls in Michigan. Peak color season is coming quickly in the northern UP, expecting most areas in the north to be 80% to peak color from Sept 25th to Oct 1st. There will still even be decent color up to Oct 5th. By October 10th things will start fading and leaves will start falling off the trees, leaf loss being around 25%.

Central UP 20-50% overall
Some good color out there now. Some of the best color progression is west of Ishpeming around Michigamme and Three Lakes, hitting up to 50% in these areas now. There are some good patches up color showing up now on the drive along 550 north of Marquette. Sugarloaf views are looking better almost every day. Best colors are to the south and south west here for colors. What is a stop at Sugarload without stopping and hiking to Hogsback or hiking to Little Presque Isle, do it you'll thank me later. Around Big Bay there are some nice colors, but more interior the better. Views from Thomas Rock aka Gobblers Knob aren't peak yet, but you can feel it coming. There are some nice colors south of Ishpeming along 581. Driving on M35 from the State Police Post to Gwinn there is stome nice color, and be sure to stop at Warner Falls on your way, it's a nice scenic 12 foot waterfall right off the road. County road 553 has some nice colors now, especially right around the Marquette Mountain Ski hill to 4 corners. If you want to head to Harvey just take CoRd 490 then Cherry Creek road north and you'll have some nice colors along the way. From Harvey to Trenary has some good color developing, always a nice color drive if you're in the Marquette area. Be sure to stop and pick up some Trenary Toast eh! You'll have some good color stretches along M95 south as well, especially this coming week into next week. The drive from Harvey to Munising is getting pretty colorful, it isn't until you start getting towards Rock River that colors start showing up, most of this drive is close to Lake Superior so it is still plenty green yet. If you want more color head down Rock River Road, M94 west, or Autrain forest road. Taking M94 is a nice drive for fall colors, plenty of color now, but also stop at AuTrain falls and Laughing Whitefish Falls Scenic Site. Keep heading through Chatham over to US41 for more fall colors. Colors should be reaching 80% to peak from Sept 27th - Oct 5th. There will still be some decent color until Oct 8th in some areas in the central UP but by October 10th don't expect things to be to colorful, it will mostly be yellows by this time.

Eastern UP 20-30% color overall
Good color is out there, you really don't have to search for it anymore in the eastern UP, you'll see color now down almost every country road. Colors around Tahquamenon falls are coming along, the river has some nice reds now showing up. Expect this weekend at the falls to be busy, and everyday forward until around October 15th. Best bet is to get there early or go closer to sunset (my favorite time). Colors are a bit slower to change along Lake Superior, the more inland you'll have better chance this week of seeing decent color. Taking I75 south you'll now see some nice reds and some good patches of color, still nothing at peak yet, another week and a half should be very nice. Far eastern UP east of I75 there is color change but it really lacks those reds like you see in the central, northern, and western UP. From the Mackinac Bridge along US2 to Brevort has nice color now, less closer to Lake Michigan, more inland. Take 123 north to M28 and west along M28 for a nice color drive. If following US2 west, you're best colors will be after Brevort to Blaney Park. My favorite way to head north to Munising from US2 is taking M77, I find it is a bit nicer fall color drive, especially with Seney Wildlife Refuge right there. From Seney to Munising there are some nice reds, but lots are fading now and trees are starting to get bare in the swampy areas, which much of this area is low lying swampland. Some of the best colors right now are along M77 north to Grand Marais. From Grand Marais to Munising along H58 there are colors, but it isn't as bright as it will be in another week to a week and a half. Lake Superior keeps this area really mild and color change happens a bit slower but there is a bit of color around Melstrand and VanMeer. South of Shingleton on M94 has some good color now, look for it to really start popping this week. Manistique and Gladstone areas have some nice colors. Colors should be reaching 80% to peak from Oct 3rd - Oct 8th. There will still be some decent color until Oct 10th in some areas in the Eastern UP but by October 15th color should be getting pretty dull and there should be a steady progression of leaf loss already.

Southern UP 15-30% color overall
Things have progressed a little bit to the southern UP. There is plenty of color south of Crystal Falls to Iron Mountain. Crystal Falls to Sagola has some decent color now, not as much as I would have thought but another week should be pretty nice. Taking M95 south from Sagola to Iron Mountain is fairly colorful right now but there are a lot of farms so harder to see the color, look off into the distance along the fields. There are some nice colors already between Felech and Foster city. More fall colors with more hardwoods going south on Waucedah Rd meeting back up with US2. US2 from Norway to Hermansville has some nice patches now, after this weekend it should be getting pretty nice for a fall color drive. From Escanaba to Menominee on M35 should get better this week, still fairly green with Lake Michigan right there. Colors should be reaching 80% to peak from Oct 3rd - Oct 8th. There will still be some decent color until Oct 10th in some areas in the central UP but by October 15th there should be a fair amount of leaf loss and color will be mostly patchy yellows.

Welcome to Week 6 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Well that cooler weather has arrived now, I am sure it is here to stay. With this cooler weather it has brought out some of the nice reds we are used to seeing here in the Upper Peninsula. Fall colors in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are wonderful, if you haven't been to Michigan's Upper Peninsula to see fall colors you must take a trip to see the colors. Guided Fall Color Tours are available with UpperPeninsulaTours - take in views from the high points around the UP, visit hidden waterfalls scattered with colorful leaves, explore abandoned mine sites, and see places you never knew about before. The colors have really started to pop now in the northern, central, and western upper peninsula with the southern and eastern UP behind by about 1 week. As I have said before, peak color will be earlier than last year across most of the Upper Peninsula this year. Keep in mind that color change can happen quickly or slow up depending on the temperatures along with rainfall. I have seen what would appear to be a good color season turn to a bad color season in a matter of a few days from a few hot days. Fall colors can also be halted when you start getting a lot of rain with warm nights. This causes the trees to continue to feed and I've seen leaves that were starting to turn yellow, orange, and red start reversing color back into green, setting peak color season back as far as two weeks from predicted. Also the winds can really rip the leaves off of the trees, especially when color gets to be about 50%, the leaves just can't hold on anymore. So keep in mind all these factors when making your plans to visit. The best times to come up for fall color if you weren't even to pay attention to the fall color report would be the last 4 days of September and the first 4 days of October. Keep in mind color change happens slowly along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake of the Clouds overlook, Brockway Mountain, Pictured Rocks, Whitefish Point, Mackinac Island, and Drummond Island. Some of these areas can be two weeks behind the interior portions of the Western UP, Northern UP, and Central UP. Also the Southern UP can be up to 1 week and in some cases 2 weeks behind as well.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 10-30% overall
Nice color continues to develop in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Areas by Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield continue to change steadily. There is plenty of color along Black River Road, along US2, and other back roads. Colors should be prime in about 2 weeks for chair lift rides at Copper Peak. You'll notice plenty of color driving along South Boundary Road that takes you through the Porcupine Mountains State Park. Views from Lake of the Clouds has a little more color this week, you're now able to notice the yellow hues showing up fairly well if you look closely. There are reds starting down along the marshy areas below the viewing decks. The Porkies are one of the most popular fall color destinations in the entire Midwest, if you're visiting keep this in mind for booking your stay at areas cabins and hotels. There are a lot of great views to take in fall colors along the North Country Trail. The colors are coming along nicely around Victoria Dam and the Ontonagon River. Areas by Lake Gogebic continue to progress, the trees along M28 near Bergland have some good color now, lots along a 10 mile stretch. Color from Bruce Crossing to Berland is pretty dull, there just aren't the maples along this stretch, you'll see more aspens and yellow starting. Bond Falls area another popular tourist destination during the fall is showing some nice color driving along US45 into Paulding. There are yellows and a few oranges around the wateralls now with a red here and there. Give it another week of cool weather and you should start seeing the colors starting to really pop. Agate Falls from the railroad trestle you could see some color on the tree tops, still pretty green through another week should be pretty noticeable. Heading along US2 from Watersmeet to Wakefield is still a pretty dull drive if you're seeking fall color, there just isn't the color yet, but there is plenty of yellows starting to pop, another week and you should start seeing those bright oranges and reds starting to pop along this stretch. In the Western UP expect colors to be hitting 80% to peak around Sept 25th to Oct 1st.

Northern UP 10-30% overall
What a few cool nights do for the colors. Driving into the Keweenaw this week it was hard not to see any color, There are some really nice reds starting to pop. Copper Harbor area colors are changing now, more are noticing that views from Brockway Mountain and Mount Lookout have some color showing up. Your southern views are showing most of the color while your northern views are still really green. Views from Mount Houghton, Bare Bluff, and Mount Bohemia are nice right now and will get better each week. Areas along US41 from Copper Harbor are changing pretty fast, this fall color drive is showing its color and each day there will be more. Expect the colors from Keweenaw Mountain Lodge to Delware to go 80%-peak color around Sept 22nd-25th. From Delaware to Mohawk there is alot of color on US41, the entire stretch has about 25%-30% color now. Areas from Bete Grise to Gay are now starting to turn more yellow with some reds and oranges showing up this week. It certainly helped with the cool temps arriving. Around Big Traverse there isn't much color right now a lot of swamps along the roads, it isn't until you get into the higher elevations outside of Rice Lake to Lake Linden along Rice Lake Road that you start seeing more color. The drive from White City and Jacobsville to Lake Linden is now showing some good color, wasn't as much color as I was hoping to see but there is plenty that it gets you in the mood for fall. From Calumet along US41 to Quincy Hill there is a suprisingly increase in color, almost 40% color in this stretch, another week of cool weather and wow it will be really nice driving along this stretch. From Lake Linden to Hancock is starting to be really nice, right outside Mason near the Quincy Dredge #2 to Ripley is really showing some good color now, a few more reds have popped up with some bright oranges. From Houghton to Baraga there are some good stretches of color, primarily just outside Michigan Tech to Chassell. Around the Sturgeon River Sloughs there are a lot of trees that have lost their leaves already two weeks ago, but it's the reds in the sloughs that have turned really bright this week, very nice indeed, be sure to stop at the lookout tower at the sloughs. Along M38 from Baraga to M26 Jct there is a lot of color showing up now. The best colors seem to be around Nisula to the turn off to Bob Lake. Some of the backroads in the Ottawa National Forest have some good colors appearing. Soon I will be heading up to Silver Mountain to get some views up from the cliffs there overlooking the surrounding areas. From Houghton to Mass city there is alot of color popping up this week or should I say really progressing. Not as much color as I would have expected after seeing what happened in the Keweenaw, but still there is plenty to please even someone who hasn't seen excellent fall color. From Painesdale to Twin Lakes if your best stretch, especially from the old MI State Prison to Toivola. Turn into Toivola and you'll see some large maples showing their color. From Greenland to Ontonagon there is some color but still pretty green, but mostly yellows starting to pop up. In the Northern UP I expect peak color to be arriving the same time as the Western UP and that is around Sept 25th - Oct 1st. Again if coming later you'll still see nice color, don't worry unless coming 2 weeks after peak.

Central UP 10-20% overall
The central UP of Michigan is progressing steadily as well. There are some nice color patches from Covington Jct to Michigamme now, right around Van Riper there are some nice orange trees. From Clarksburg to Ishpeming there are some nice colors but still pretty green yet, but you will notice a lot of yellow hues just waiting for a few more cooler evenings to make the colors really nice. Driving around the backroads in both Negaunee and Ishpeming you'll see some nice trees changing colors, off the highway at Miners Park in Negaunee there are some nice maples turning orange. CoRd 492 has some good color appearing especially from the Cememtary to M35. Down by the Greenwood Reservoir there was some color showing up, there is usually some good photo opportunities along the waterfront. There are some nice stretches of color along 581 south of Ishpeming, along 565, and down M35 to Gwinn. From Gwinn to Marquette on 553 there are some decent color patches, your best color will be from 4 Corners to Bothwell Middle School. The stretch from Harvey to Trenary is usually nice, but there isn't much color popping yet, another week perhaps. Heading north of Marquette along 550 you'll see some trees here and there changing, more north after Sugarloaf to Big Bay. Views from Sugarloaf you're now able to really notice the tree tops with color, lots of yellows appearing now, but still plenty of green lake side. If you're hiking for views from Hogsback this week expect your fall color views to be better than from Sugarloaf. From Thomas rock you'll see more color now, plenty of yellows, a few reds and oranges scattered about. Driving down CoRd 510 from Big Bay to US41 there are a few areas with some nice patchy color, plenty of leaves dropping off the trees as well. If you want a nice spot to stop at the historic old 510 bridge is usually a nice spot to take in some fall color viewing. Areas around Deer Lake and Dead River Storage Basin have some really nice color, nothing exceptional yet, but still able to notice that fall has arrived. Areas around Munising are coming along not so much right off Lake Superior but more inland. You'll see some oranges now along NF13 south of Munising and heading out of town along M28 towards Shingleton. From Deer Lake to AuTrain there is a bit of color starting to pop, mostly yellow and oranges with a few reds. Rock River Rd to Chatham there were a handful of trees with color, be sure to stop at Rock River Falls on your way through. Depending on where in the Central UP 80% color to peak color should be Sept 29th - Oct 5th. Some areas further west of Marquette may go peak around Sept 22nd-Sept 27th.

Eastern UP 5-15% color overall
Eastern UP has a bit of color now being seen by most. The Taqhamenon Falls area is coming along, anywhere marshy is showing some nice reds and some oranges already. Along the Seney stretch you'll notice plenty of reds in the marshes. From McMillian to Newberry there's a few patches of color. From Newberry to Hulbert Lake there is more color. Taking 123 north to Whitefish point you'll see the colors changing, but still fairly green, but enough that you notice. Views from Mission overlook you can see some treetops changing color, the best views from this overlook will probably be in 3 weeks. I75 south from the Soon to St. Ignace there are reds popping up now and your oranges as well, mostly yellow hues yet another 2 weeks it should be a pretty nice drive for color even into the 2nd week of October could be ok. from US2 around the Mackinac bridge to Epoufette you're seeing more color now, it's noticeable for sure, still green close to the lake, but when you're away from Lake Michigan further in north of Brevort Lake and near Allenville on 123 north there's more color. Your drives up 117 and 77 there is color but seeing more the further north you go. Around Manistique there is a little color, doesn't seem to be more than last year at this time. Around Manistique Lake you can see the colors along the lakeshore changing. Eastern areas of the UP should be hitting 80% color to peak color sometime around Oct 1st.

Southern UP 5-15% color overall
There is a bit of color that is popping now. Most areas south from Iron Mountain to Menominee and around Escanaba now are seeing color. There is still a lot of green though. You can find color if you look for it or are paying attention. You'll notice plenty of colors south of Crystal Falls to Iron Mountain. Hwy 69 there are some decent patches of orange and a few reds are showing up. You're best stretch of color right now on US2 is probably from Iron Mountain to Powers. East of Powers to Escanaba there are a lot of farms to it is harder to see the color change, it isn't the best of fall color drives along this section in the southern UP. One of your nicer drives can be taking 551 south which is just west of Island Resort and Casino. From Escanaba along M35 going south to Menominee is usually a nice color drive as well. There should be 80% color to peak colors in the southern UP around Oct 4th - Oct 8th.

Welcome to Week 6 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Another week of progression of fall colors brings us a little closer to peak color season. Driving around the UP this week showed me that we are continuing to run about 1 week ahead of last year at this time. There were a few days with some rain, although it didn't bring a lot of rain it has brought out some nice reds now. The temperatures both day and evening have dropped and we have had a few days with evening temps in the 40s and that is great for that color starting to pop. Things can change and reverse as well, with not enough warm days with cool nights and to much rain things could stay green and not progress much. A few years ago we had a fall color season that was warm and we had a lot of rain and it pushed peak colors back 2 weeks back into the 2nd and 3rd week of October. I don't see that happening this fall season, I think we will still stay ahead of last year by at least a week, with peak fall colors starting around the middle of the 3rd week of Sept into the first week of October. Areas along Lake Superior near Munising, Copper Harbor, Whitefish point, Grand Marais, and Lake of the Clouds are usually about 1 week behind the mainland. Mackinac Island and Drummond Island as well usually hit peak sometimes almost 2 weeks after the inner regions of the Upper Peninsula.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 7-15% overall
More and more color in the Western UP. We'll start in the Porkies this week for the report. A bit of color now starting to be seen from Lake of the Clouds if you look closely, especially along the western regions of the Carp river. Areas further in along South Boundary road are starting to turn now, not a lot of color but enough to be noticed. Views from Summit peak you can see a lot of yellow hues starting. Down CoRd 519 to Wakefield there are a handful of reds plenty of oranges, and still a lot of green. Areas near Ironwood and Bessemer have some decent patches of color it doesn't see to be a lot more than last week. There is a bit more color around Bergland and Lake Gogebic. Down along US2 from Wakefield to Watersmeet there is a bit of yellow popping on the aspens but not a lot of oranges or reds yet. Areas around Rockland and Old Victoria have a bit of color like many places you notice it but it is still really green, but you can tell it isn't far from changing over. If you are looking for some great hiking and awesome fall color views this fall take a hiking trip to hike the North Country Trail starting from Old Victoria and hiking into the Trap Hills.

Northern UP 5-15% overall
Areas up by Copper Harbor are still very green. Traveling along US41 from Copper Harbor to Delaware you'll see a lot of color around 10-15% color change, this is always a beautiful drive, one of the favorites for many and one of the most beautiful fall color drives in the US. Areas along M26 from Copper Harbor to Eagle River are really green yet, not a lot of color being seen so far, a bit more in the inner regions. Drives along Cliff Drive had some color in the marshy areas but not much elsewhere that could be seen from the roadside. Areas from Lac La Belle to Gay were still very green yet, a few colors here and there from last week. A bit more color showing now from White City to Lake Linden, more closer to Lake Linden and into the Trap Rock Valley. Lake Linden to Hancock along M26 is progressing nicely with color, in another 2 weeks this should be a really nice color drive. Areas outside of Houghton to Chassell there is a lot of color now appearing, especially just past Michigan Tech and closer to Chassell. Backroads outside of Houghton, Painesdale, and South Range there is a lot of color starting to appear, some nice reds are showing up. The drive outside Painesdale to the Mosquito Inn has some good color along the way, 2 weeks we should start being into the 50% color range along this stretch. Misery Bay Road had plenty of color starting too, there was a nice pond along the road had some really bright reds which was surprising. There's a bit more color now along US41 from L'Anse to Covington Jct. If going to Canyon Falls expect it to be busy almost every day of the week through fall color season. Inner regions of the Huron mountains outside L'Anse there's some nice color starting. Drives along Arvon road had some color, drives along Skanee Road to Big Ericks bridge there are some good patches, the next couple weeks this should be a good drive to take for some early color.

Central UP 5-10% overall
Drive from Covington Jct to Marquette there are some nice colors developing especially near Parent Lake to Three Lakes. A bit of color now appearing near Van Riper State Park and Lake Michigamme. Hwy 95 south there's a little color. Areas around Marquette are seeing a bit more color, a little more color being seen from Mount Marquette now, but still pretty green. Drives along 510 and 550 are showing about the same color as last week but there are noticable changes in the patches of color. Areas along Lake Superior are still pretty green yet. Views from Sugarloaf and Hogsback you can see a bit of yellow and a few oranges and reds, but overall pretty green, the hikes area always a fun thing to do if you're in the area, but expect plenty of people now through peak color season, especially at Sugarloaf. Areas around Munising and H58 are now showing a bit of color, and even more into the interior regions. Along Hwy 94 from US41 to Munising you'll see enough color that you know peak season is just around the corner in a few weeks, be sure to stop at Au Train Falls and Laughing Whitefish Falls for some good views.

Eastern UP 3-10% color overall
The eastern UP has color but not as much as your Central, Northern, and Western UP areas. Areas around the Soo are showing some color now. Some reports of color off I75 from the Soo and along the way to the Mackinac bridge. Views along US2 some color is starting to pop up around the Cut River bridge and further west towards Blaney Park. Areas around Brevort Lake had some oranges popping up. M77 north to Seney have some color, especially in the swampy areas, also along M28 to Shingleton there are some reds popping up in the swampy areas. M28 to Newberry there is a little color.

Southern UP 3-10% color overall
Not a lot of color appearing in the southern UP yet, but soon enough there will be. From Rapid River to Menominee there are a few trees showing color but tno really to many good patches of color yet. There is a bit of color a bit north around Kingsford and Iron Mountain. It isn't until you get up near Crystal Falls that you start seeing more color. The drive up US141 to Amasa had some decent color change. Areas to the interior regions like around Norway and Hermansville showed a bit more color than further south.

Welcome to Week 4 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. A bit of cooler weather this week has brought thoughts of fall moving in across the Upper Peninsula. We all know what is coming soon, snow, but for now we still trying to enjoy the beautiful summer we have had this year in 2019. Not much rain across the Upper Peninsula this summer with first stage drought conditions over last week. These warmer and dry conditions have given us a little ealier progression of the colors this season. It is far from peak, but it will be here sooner this year I am sure of it. Many people including myself welcome fall and look forward to the beautiful displays of color that surrounds us here in the Upper Peninsula each year. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has some of the most beautiful fall colors you will ever see with rich oranges, yellows, deep reds, and bright reds, and when you add in the beautiful settings along many of the lakes, rivers, and the might Lake Superior your cup runneth over in beauty.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 5-10% overall
The western Upper Peninsula continues to see color change, most of it being inland off Lake Superior along Black River Road, South Boundary Road in the Porkies, and north of Bessemer, and Wakefield. Around Lake Gogebic there were a few trees with more color this week. The stretch from the West Branch Ontonagon River to Wakefield dozens of trees with color starting already. Along US2 from Watersmeet to Wakefield there weren't a lot of colors changing on the maples, but there were a lot of aspens turning into yellow hues. Covington Jct to Bruce Crossing there wasn't much color change from the prior week, but expecting that to change with the cool temps arriving. There was a bit of color going south on US141 towards Amasa, this coming week there should be some good sections of color starting. Around Bond Falls there wasn't much color a few yellows with an occassional red. Bond falls is always amazing no matter what time of year you visit, make it a stop this year if you haven't been there. The Porkies (Porcupine Mountains) has little color change right now. Many peoples favorite lookout in the western UP at Lake of the Clouds had a lot of green, could see a few trees down along the river with some color starting, but overall very green yet.

Northern UP 2-10% overall
Areas in the Copper Country and Keweenaw countinue to progress nicely with color, it is really surprising how fast some of the leaves have dropped off trees already due to the warm summer. Color is more prenounced from Painesdale to Toivola now, last week you didn't notice a lot, only if you were looking for the color, this week you can't help but notice the color changes. Same goes up into the Keweenaw along US41, the drive from Mohawk up to Eagle Harbor cut off road there is plenty of color now, not a lot but you can notice it more this week. Driving along US41 to Copper Harbor there were trees along the covered drive now changing, another 2 weeks things will be really be starting to change, especially if the cooler temps really set in. Areas along Lake Superior from Bete Grise, Lac La Belle, to Gay weren't to exciting, lots of green along the water. Areas out to White City have little color, an occasional tree here and there with color all the way back to Lake Linden. It isn't until you drive around Traprock Valley you start seeing more color driving down roads like Sievi Rd, Gas Plant, or Old Colony Rd give you good views of the valley where you can see the hues of the leaves changing along the hillsides. M38 from Baraga to Jct M26 there are a few color changes happening, most of the colors around Prickett Road to the turn off to Bob Lake some color out closer to Jct M26. L'Anse to Skanee there are a few trees with color now. Out closer to the shoreline of Lake Superior not much changed. Interior along the backroads into the Huron Mountains there isn't much change that I could see but again we don't have the open roads it's backcountry here. Some color being seen along the Huron River one of my favorite rivers to hike along during the fall and also to fish. The scenery is amazing and calming. Taking in views from Mt Arvon (Michigan's Highest Point) you could notice a few tree tops with hues of yellow starting, didn't notice any reds or oranges this week. Being able to see the shoreline of the Keweenaw is always great on a clear day, up to 50 miles on some days.

Central UP 1-5% overall
North of Marquette a bit of color now along 550 and 510. Views from Sugarloaf you can see some tree tops with hues of yellow developing and a few oranges on tree tops. Views from Mount Marquette there is a lot of green being seen, tree tops to the western areas of the hillside you can notice with those yellow hues starting on the maples and aspens. The drive to Munising from Harvey you'll notice little changes from last week from the occasional tree with a little red or orange. Further inland along M94 from US41 to Chatham you'll see plenty of color starting but no significant patches of color developing yet, expecting more this week with the cooler temps arriving.

Eastern UP 1-5% color overall
A little color developing inland off Lake Superior in Luce and Chippewa counties. Far eastern side of the Upper Peninsula there haven't been to many reports of trees with color yet. Around St. Ignace there are a few trees with color here and there, nothing to significant. Areas along US2 are seeing a bit of color from the Mackinac bridge to the Cut River Bridge there is sporadic color along the highway. Driving M28 from Shingleton to Newberry there are a few trees with color not any significant sections of color developing yet. M77 south little color and M77 north to Grand Marais there is a bit of color, still not much. Whitefish point area very little color being seen yet.

Southern UP 1-3% color overall
A bit of color now starting to appear along the roads and in some of the higher elevations in the southern UP.

Welcome to Week 3 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Things are still very dry here in the Upper Peninsula and colors continue to progress ahead of normal. What colors are being seen aren't bright at all, they are dull, and leaves are burning up and falling off trees. There are many places where leaves are already falling off trees in great numbers. There hasn't been to many cool nights which will keep color progression minimal through the next week, it does appear things could start cooling off this week. There are colors being seen in most areas of the Upper Peninsula color is minimal with up to 5% color in the western UP of Michigan.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Western UP 1-5% overall
Minimal color change overall. In the far reaches of the western UP colors have begun becoming more noticeable. You're able to see colors along Black River Road all from around the airport in Ironwood. Around the ski hills in the area there have been reports of colors, leaves do seem dried out and very dull. There are some trees with leaves completely falling off already from the warmth of summer as with other areas of the UP. There are a few trees here and there along US2, M28, and South Boundary Rd in the Porcupine Mountains with some leaves changing color, but not much.

Northern UP 1-5% overall
Areas around Houghton, Painesdale, Toivola, Hancock, Chassell, Tapiola, and up into the Keweenaw there are plenty of trees with leaves changing colors. Comparing color change on some places to last year we are almost 1.5-2 weeks ahead of last year with those same trees in color change. It is from the lack of rain leaving dry ground. From Mohawk to Lake Medora you'll notice quite a few trees with color already. The route along M26 from Eagle River to Copper Harbor was very green with a few trees having leaves with some color. Areas of Jacobsville, Bootjack, White City had hardly any color change yet. Traprock valley there are colors being seen. Lake Linden to Hancock along M26 there are quite a few trees with colors now, much is dull and not exciting.

Central UP 0-5% overall
Some color continues to progress around Three Lakes to Michigamee, with very little around Ishpeming to Marquette along US41. North along CR510 and CR550 to Big Bay there are a few trees here and there with some color, but nothing that really catches your eyes right now. Views from Mt Marquette, Sugarloaf, and Hogsback look very green yet, but you can notice the yellow hues starting color progression. Areas around Munising are still looking green especially around the shores of Lake Superior, more interior along M95 and M28 there is a bit of color starting.

Eastern UP 0-3% color overall
Not much to write about here, little color change. There have been some reports of a tree here or there in Luce and Chippewa counties with color.

Southern UP 0-3% color overall
Not much to write about here, little color change. A few trees here and there with some reds and oranges, but mostly people are seeing the yellows starting to come out. The rains in the southern UP have helped with slowing any progression.

Welcome to Week 2 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Well a little has changed, and when I say little has changed it more less means color hasn't changed much but it has become more noticeable to almosty all. There aren't many places now without a few trees that have a little color starting. Most areas interior throughout the Copper Country and Keweenaw have some trees with color. Interior regions around Ishpeming and Marquette have color. Far western UP from Wakefield and around Ironwood and interior regions of the Porkies have some trees with color as well. Most of the color is dull, very little vibrant color, things are dry, the color change is slightly ahead of last year because of it. Don't expect it to be a color season to remember as in the last few years. Dry and warm with little rain has made for some progression in color compared to last years report. I am expecting colors to be at least 1-1.5 weeks ahead of last season, only thing that can really slow don the progression of color at this point is some heavy and saturating rains, but even then if days are warm (not hot) and nights cool in the mid 40s low 50s color will progress quickly. If days are warm and we have warm nights and no rain things will dry out and we will have dull colors, most likely scenario at this point. Anyway there isn't much more to say about the color change right now, but it is apparent in many areas the leaves are changing. See you on next weeks Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report.



Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com

Welcome to Week 1 of the Upper Peninsula Fall Color Report in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Fall, it is a season most of us enjoy, fall is a season that means winter is around the corner, fall is a season when things start to cool down, bugs start to disappear, and the landscape starts to change into beautiful reds, yellows, and orange. Regardless if you enjoy fall or don't like fall it is coming, it is evident in the color change happening already in the forests of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Have no fear though, peak fall colors are weeks away.

August 2nd, 2019 - First fall color video for season.
However as I said in the LIVE VIDEO, fall colors will probaly be a little earlier than the last few years and not as bright and colorful as the prior 2 years. Granted, fall color season in the Upper Peninsula is always beautiful, don't get me wrong here, I just tend to analyze them a bit different than most people, it is the nature of what I do in promoting the U.P. of Michigan and my knowledge of the Upper Peninsula fall colors. I am passionate about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and it is my daily desire to provide a fun and informative place to find all things Upper Peninsula. Overall there isn't much to report on the fall colors yet other than we are seeing the usually early color on some trees. This summer has been a bit warm for us here in the Upper Peninsula so we are already seeing many trees with leaves falling off already, they are burned up. Also due to the snowfalls and on the ground snow hanging out into May along with temps being cooler in the spring many trees did not develop leaves fully like normal. Fall is a wonderful time of the year, a favorite of mine for photography. Hopefully we will get a little bit of rain that will help things from drying out any further and fall could be a bit brighter, more than I am anticipating.

Thanks for following the U.P. Fall Color Report, check back weekly for updates.
--Yooper Steve - U.P. Tour Guide::Photographer::Filmmaker

FunintheUP on instagram - FunintheUP on Facebook - Steve Jurmu Instagram - Steve Jurmu Facebook - SteveJurmu.com