This fall's foliage in New York and New Jersey is expected to be the best in several years. Drought in 2024 and 2025 left the colors short-lived and dull, but experts say last winter's snow melted slowly and soaked into the soil, leaving forests healthier. Most of New York state will see color in early October, areas near the coast in mid-to-late October, and New Jersey beginning in mid-October. In Connecticut, peak comes in early to mid-October.

This weekend was washed out by wind and rain, but leaf-peeping season is almost here. Forecasts say this year's colors will be the best in several years. Fall foliage passed quickly and looked dull in 2024 and 2025 because of drought, but most of the region has since emerged from drought.

Experts explain that the forests are in good health because last winter's snow melted slowly and soaked into the soil. One assessment says the Northeast is "heading into a really good season after the struggles of the past few years."

Peak Timing by Region

2026 Fall Foliage Peak Timing
Most of New York state
Early October
Coastal areas of New York state
Mid-to-late October
New Jersey
Color begins to appear in mid-October
Connecticut
Early to mid-October
Northern New England
Color begins to appear in late September

For Koreans in New York and New Jersey, the closest option is the Hudson Valley. It is within a one- to two-hour drive, and the colors are best if you go during the first or second week of October. Northern New Jersey's mountain areas and the Delaware Water Gap turn about a week later. Even within New York City, Central Park, the New York Botanical Garden and Prospect Park keep their color through late October and into early November, so you don't have to travel far.

Checking a foliage map before you set out can save you a wasted trip. New York state updates ILoveNY.com weekly, while New Jersey offers the state forest service's Facebook page and visitnj.org. Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection runs an interactive map. On a national level, the SmokyMountains.com forecast map is available through Nov. 20.

Foliage-season weekends are crowded everywhere. It is better to arrive early in the morning at popular spots, and in mountain areas, where temperatures differ greatly between morning and daytime, it is a good idea to bring a jacket. If you can take time off on a weekday, the same places will feel much less crowded.