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Foliage Report for September 24, 2025
The Colors of the Season All Around
(AUGUSTA, Maine) - With autumn's arrival, Mainers and visitors can look forward to brilliant fall colors spreading across the state. The third2025 Fall Foliage Reportfrom the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) reports low to moderate color change (30-50 percent) throughout most of Maine, with very low to low leaf drop (less than 30 percent). Northern Maine (zones 6 and 7) is showing significant color change (approaching 70 percent) with low leaf drop.
"The environmental cycle is occurring as it always does with the preparation of the ongoing season. In the fall, when the connection between the leaf and the tree begins to be blocked, the production of chlorophyll, which gives the leaves their green color, slows and then stops. Thus, the autumn colors emerge," notes Gale Ross, DACF fall foliage spokesperson.
Follow the 2025 Maine fall foliage forecast this season and take advantage of autumn events, activities, and tips for colorful road trips throughout Maine:
- Seafood lovers can enjoy the final days of Maine Lobster Week, running through September 28, or celebrate Maines working waterfront at the Pemaquid Oyster Festival, happening September 27 at Schooner Landing in Damariscotta. The event features freshly harvested oysters, live music, educational exhibits and boat rides, all benefiting local aquaculture education.
- Fryeburg Fair runs Sept. 27-Oct. 5. 5 as one of New Englands most iconic agricultural fairs. Visitors can enjoy livestock shows, harness racing, carnival rides, and a wide array of Maine-made food and crafts. The fair is a beloved fall tradition, drawing crowds eager to pair near-peak foliage with farm fun.
- As color spreads through northern Maine, the Katahdin Woods & Waters Scenic Byway offers one of the most dramatic drives of the season. Stretching for 89 miles, the route circles the east side of Katahdin, Maines highest peak, and follows the East Branch of the Penobscot River. Travelers will find quiet forests, river overlooks, and chances to spot moose and bald eagles.
- The byway provides access to Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, where hiking trails and scenic viewpoints showcase unspoiled wilderness and sweeping mountain panoramas. Whether for a short drive or a weekend adventure, this region offers some of Maines most breathtaking foliage views.
Fall Foliage Traveler Tips
- Check conditions Foliage varies by region; use Maines official foliage website for the latest updates.
- Dress in layers Expect cool mornings, warm afternoons, and crisp evenings.
- Pause for photos Use scenic turnouts and designated overlooks for the safest leaf-peeping stops.
- Savor local harvests Add cider or cheese to your foliage adventure for a true taste of the season.
Follow Maine's official foliage forecast online or by email, and share your adventures with #MaineFoliage. Stay inspired through the Maine Fall Foliage Facebook and Instagram, featuring fresh images and seasonal activities from across the state. For even more fall trip ideas and travel planning resources, visit www.visitmaine.com.
| Zone Number | Color Change | Leaf Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | High | Low |
| 6 | High | Low |
| 5 | Moderate | Low |
| 4 | Low | Very Low |
| 3 | Low | Low |
| 2 | Low | Very Low |
| 1 | Low | Low |
Foliage Zones
Zone 7: Northeastern Maine, including Fort Kent, Caribou, and Presque Isle
Zone 6: Northwestern Maine
Zone 5: Western Mid-Maine, including Greenville, Rangeley, Bethel
Zone 4: Eastern Mid-Maine, including Houlton, Millinocket, and Calais
Zone 3: Central and Southwestern Maine, including Bangor, Augusta, and Fryeburg
Zone 2: Downeast Maine, including Machias, Bar Harbor, and Penobscot Bay
Zone 1: Mid-Coast and South Coastal Maine, including Camden, Portland, Kennebunkport, and Kittery