Natural History Wanderings

Arizona and New Mexico National Forests have the following fall color updates as of September 28, 2015

Fall colors typically begin mid to late September in the higher elevations of northern Arizona, with most of the peak viewing in early to the middle of October. The lower elevations usually peak in late October or early November and can continue through the month of November.

In New Mexico, fall colors typically begin mid to late September in the higher elevations, with most of the peak viewing in early to mid October. The lower elevations usually peak in mid to late October and can continue into early November.

Kaibab National Forest

Fall colors are on display from late September through October. Visit the Kaibab National Forest website to plan your visit for optimal viewing of fall colors.

Carson National Forest

For spectacular views in the high country, consider hiking or packing into the Pecos, Latir, Wheeler Peak, or Cruces Basin Wilderness, or Columbine Hondo Wilderness Study Area. Updates will be posted on the Carson National Forest website, and on Facebook

Prescott National Forest

Like in other parts of the country, it is impossible to say exactly when fall colors will peak–but as a general rule, trees and bushes at the highest elevations start changing from mid- to late September with leaves falling around mid- to late October.  Trees at lower elevations begin changing a couple weeks to a month later, and you can still find signs of autumn into mid-December in the Verde Valley and other low elevation parts of the forest.

Coconino National Forest

By October each year, colors are usually in full splendor on the Coconino National Forest. Many of the trees in the higher elevations near Flagstaff reach their prime in early October, but the views are still beautiful throughout the season. The maples on the Mogollon Rim District are worth the visit, and the deciduous trees in Oak Creek Canyon and the Sedona area are spectacular. Watch for the latest fall color photos on our Fall Colors album on Flickr and updates @CoconinoNF on Twitter.

All other National Forests in New Mexico and Arizona have yet to post any reports