Peep the leaves! Before they’re gone… New England Foliage Report for Oct. 10-13 Long Weekend

As we move into mid-October, leaf-peeping season reaches its dramatic midpoint across New England. The northern mountains are fading past peak, while central regions are glowing in full color and southern New England is finally catching fire. If you’re planning a weekend drive, this is one of the best of the years.  Northern New England: Past Peak but Still Beautiful

Maine, New Hampshire & Vermont
The brilliant reds and oranges that dazzled early travelers last week are now giving way to amber, bronze, and gold — a more subtle but equally beautiful palette.

Maine’s northern lakes region and Baxter State Park are past peak, but the Midcoast and central hills are ideal now, especially around Camden Hills and Belgrade Lakes.

In New Hampshire, color lingers in the Lakes Region and southern Whites, with good drives along Route 28 and Route 11 toward Lake Winnipesaukee.

Vermont’s color has moved south — Route 7, Route 100, and the Green Mountain Byway near Manchester and Weston are spectacular this weekend.

Southern New England: Now’s the Time

Massachusetts, Connecticut & Rhode Island
The show has officially arrived in southern New England, with peak or near-peak color stretching across the interior.

In western and central Massachusetts, the Berkshires are still stunning, and the Mohawk Trail (Route 2) remains a classic drive. Eastern Massachusetts is climbing toward peak next week.

Connecticut is glowing in its northwestern hills and Quiet Corner (Route 169). The Litchfield region will peak this weekend, with vibrant contrast in the river valleys.

Rhode Island is entering its best stretch of the season. Early color has deepened into warm reds and golds across northern and western RI — from Chepachet and Glocester down through Arcadia, Burrillville, and Blackstone Valley. By late next week, the color will spill toward the coast.

Weekend Weather

Expect mostly sunny skies and comfortable temperatures statewide:

• Highs: upper 60s to low 70s

• Lows: 40s to low 50s

• Best viewing times: early morning for photography, or golden hour before sunset.

A light breeze and dry air will make for crisp visibility and near-perfect leaf-peeping conditions.

Editor’s Picks: Top Drives for This Weekend

Route 100, Vermont – Endless color from Stowe to Manchester

Kancamagus Highway, NH – Fewer crowds this week, still vibrant midrange tones

Mohawk Trail, MA – West to east sweep of gold and orange

Route 169, CT–RI – A local favorite — gentle hills, stone walls, and farm stands

Route 102, RI – Scenic, relaxed drive through the state’s foliage heartland

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This weekend marks the heart of New England’s fall season — a sweet spot where the north still glows and the south bursts alive. Whether you’re hiking the mountains, exploring the valleys, or taking a simple Sunday drive through Rhode Island’s countryside, now is the moment to see the leaves at their best.

Be aware of the weather as rumors of a possible Nor’easter are brewing which may bring down ALL the leaves and make trips open to adjusting.