Natural History Wanderings

California Fall Color has report for Northern Sierra including Hope Valley. Below are the highlights. See full report and photos at California Fall Color » Blog Archive » Still Hope, Though Mostly Past Peak

Past Peak YOU MISSED IT! – Carson Pass. Nearly all the aspen at the highest reaches of the pass have lost their leaves. The most profound example of the change (see at left) is the comparison of a stand of aspen shot last year off CA-88 at the trailhead to Kirkwood Lake and the same stand shot today.

Near Peak (50-75%) GO NOW! – Hope Valley – The best stand is found directly across Hwys 88 and 89 from Sorensen’s Resort. Room at the inn is available next weekend, if you want to see it at its best. Unfortunately, all the aspen at and surrounding the resort have dropped their color.

Patchy (10-50%) – Lake Tahoe

Just Starting (0-10%) – US 50 – All elevations

Just Starting (0-10%) – Newtown Rd, Placerville (Gold Country)

Just Starting (0-10%) – Pleasant Valley Vineyards (Gold Country)