Wisconsin Fall Colors 2025: Northwoods Already Near 50% Change as Peak Approaches
LAND O’ LAKES, Wis. — The autumn transformation has begun across Wisconsin, with the Northwoods already nearing 50% color change as cooler nights and shorter days set in.
Northwoods Leading the Way
Observers for Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report say Land O’ Lakes in Vilas County has reached 45% color change, while Forest County is at 40%, with peak color expected in the first week of October.
Other northern updates include:
- Florence County: 30% change
- Ashland and Birchwood: 25%
- Hayward: 20%
- Door County: 5% (expected peak in the second week of October)
Central and Southern Wisconsin
Color is beginning to show further south as well. The Amherst and Stevens Point area is at 20%, while Appleton, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, and Wausau report about 15% change.
In southern Wisconsin, observers in Racine County are already reporting 20% color change, a sign that the season is quickly moving statewide.
National Foliage Map
According to ExploreFall.com’s 2025 Fall Foliage Map, peak color is expected on the following schedule:
- Northern third of Wisconsin (Bayfield region): around Oct. 7
- Central Wisconsin (Marshfield, Wausau): around Oct. 18
- Southern Wisconsin and Milwaukee metro area: around Oct. 28
How Reports Are Compiled
The Fall Color Report is updated weekly from more than 100 observers statewide, using both current leaf changes and historical averages to forecast peak. However, forecasters caution that weather conditions such as temperature swings, rainfall, and wind can alter the timing from year to year.
With peak season just weeks away, travelers are already planning trips to capture Wisconsin’s brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows. For more seasonal updates and community highlights, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.