top of page
Writer's pictureGerry Caron

Fall Foliage Report – September 25, 2024: Must-Do Fall Activities in Maine


Map showing the different areas of foliage change

Maine Fall Foliage Report – September 25, 2024: Must-Do Fall Activities in Maine

AUGUSTA, Maine – It’s that time of year again! As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, Mainers and leaf-peeping enthusiasts alike can look forward to the vibrant fall foliage that’s painting the landscape. Track the foliage and must-do fall activities in Maine.


According to the 2024 Maine Fall Foliage Report from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), the state is seeing moderate to high color change (50-70%) across much of Maine, with low to moderate leaf drop (less than 50%).


Peak Conditions Forecast

As of this week, Northern Maine (zones six and seven) is on track to reach peak foliage during the first week of October. In all other areas, fall colors will unfold from north to south, reaching their peak throughout mid-October. For those along the coast, expect peak foliage to hit in mid-to-late October, making it the perfect time for a scenic drive along Maine’s coastal highways.


Interactive Foliage Map – New for 2024

To help you plan your perfect leaf-peeping adventure, the DACF has launched a new interactive foliage map on the official Maine Foliage website, www.mainefoliage.com. The map offers detailed insights, allowing visitors to zoom in on:

  • Scenic byways

  • RealMaine farms offering pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and corn mazes

  • Baked goods and seasonal treats

  • Land for Maine's Future funded parks and lands

  • State parks, public lands, and boat launches

  • Upcoming fall fairs and festivals across the state

This interactive map is the ultimate tool for planning your Maine fall foliage experience, whether you're seeking panoramic views, outdoor activities, or local harvest spots.


This Week’s Foliage Outlook

"It's fall y’all... which means it's officially sweater weather in Maine!" says Gale Ross, Maine's fall foliage spokesperson. Despite the recent drought, Ross believes Maine is perfectly positioned to produce some of the most stunning fall colors in years. "We’re in the Goldilocks zone—not too dry, not too wet, and no killing frost yet—which means we’re likely to see those iconic fall hues in abundance in the coming weeks."


Must-Do Fall Activities in Maine

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of state, autumn in Maine offers a plethora of activities to help you immerse yourself in the fall magic:


1. Navigate a Corn Maze

Several farms across Maine feature exciting themed corn mazes perfect for family outings. Two standouts this season include:

  • Thunder Road Farm in Corinna offers a Peanuts-themed maze to celebrate the comic’s 75th anniversary.

  • Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant is known for its award-winning Peter Rabbit-themed maze, the longest continually running maze in the state.


2. Take a Scenic Road Trip

As the foliage transforms the landscape, there’s no better time to embark on a scenic road trip through Maine’s Kennebec Valley. With its rich network of rivers, lakes, and rolling hills, this region offers stunning autumnal backdrops. A must-drive route is the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway, where you’ll find panoramic vistas stretching from Solon to the Canadian border. Don’t miss the chance to stop at:

  • Robbins Hill Scenic Area or Moxie Falls in The Forks for a picnic and breathtaking foliage views.

  • Small towns like Hallowell, Waterville, and Skowhegan, known for their cozy shops and fantastic local eateries.


Stay Updated on Maine’s Fall Foliage

For those who can’t get enough of Maine’s beautiful fall colors, sign up for the weekly foliage report at mainefoliage.com to receive updates straight to your inbox. You can also follow the Maine Fall Foliage accounts on Facebook and Instagram, where stunning user-submitted photos and fall event highlights are posted throughout the season.


Don’t forget to share your own foliage photos using #MaineFoliage, and explore more seasonal activities, including events and travel tips, at visitmaine.com.


Upcoming Fall Fairs and Festivals

  • Common Ground Fair (Unity, ME): Celebrate Maine’s agricultural heritage with this renowned fair featuring local crafts, food, and fun for the whole family.

  • Damariscotta Pumpkinfest (Damariscotta, ME): Watch giant pumpkins take over the town as locals carve, paint, and even race them on the water.

  • York Harvestfest (York, ME): Enjoy live music, crafts, and plenty of fall treats in this charming coastal town.

The colors are calling, and Maine’s autumn is ready to enchant. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the most beautiful times of year in the Pine Tree State!


Plan Your Visit: Key Foliage Dates

  • Peak in Northern Maine: Early October (Zones 6-7)

  • Peak in Central Maine: Mid-October (Zones 4-5)

  • Coastal Maine Peak: Mid-to-Late October (Zones 1-3)


With the leaves changing and the crisp fall air settling in, now is the perfect time to plan your Maine fall foliageadventure. Whether you’re driving through the countryside, picking apples at a local farm, or exploring the trails of Maine’s state parks, there’s something magical about fall in Maine that calls to everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? The colors are falling, and Maine’s great outdoors are calling your name. Come explore the vibrant beauty of the Pine Tree State this autumn!


What to Do in Moosehead Lake

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.

  • Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!



For more information on the 2024 fall foliage report, visit www.mainefoliage.com.

Comments


bottom of page