When Will Different States Experience Peak Fall Foliage?

OCTOBER 2020

This interactive map, created by members of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, was created to show predictions for the annual progressive changing of the leaves in each state. This map highlights when each state will be near or at its peak for fall colors for the year 2020. Information about why leaves change color and why they fall is also included.

Use the interactive map below to explore when your state is reaching its peak for fall foliage colors. Do you think these predictions are accurate? How do you think this tool can be used by travelers? After taking a look at the map, explore the reasons behind why leaves change colors in the fall months and why leaves fall from trees.

2020 Fall Prediction Map
The 2020 Fall Foliage Map is the ultimate visual planning guide to the annual progressive changing of the leaves. While no tool can be 100% accurate, this tool is meant to help travelers better time their trips to have the best opportunity of catching peak color each year.

Students

After viewing the map above, think about these three questions:
- What do you notice?
- What do you wonder? What are you curious about that comes from what you notice in the map?
- What might be going on in this graph? Write a catchy headline that captures the main idea. If your headline makes a claim, write what you noticed that supports your claim.
The questions are intended to build on one another, so try to answer them in order. Start with “I notice,” then “I wonder,” and end with “The story this map is telling is ….” and a catchy headline.
Next, join the conversation by adding to the discussion below. (Students 13 and older are invited to comment, although teachers of younger students are welcome to post what their students have to say.)
After you have posted, read what others have said, then respond to someone else by posting a comment. Use the “Reply” button to address another student directly.

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