The 2016 fall foliage report from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry reports moderate to high color spreading throughout Maine. Northern Maine and the western mountains are reaching peak (75 percent) conditions with low leaf drop this weekend.

“As if on cue, this Columbus Day weekend is a great opportunity to plan a leaf peeping trip to your favorite destination in Maine. Despite the drought conditions we’ve experienced throughout most of the state, the colors are emerging on a daily basis and are brilliant! I might even go out on a limb and say that I think the colors on the trees are more vibrant than in past years in all parts of the state. I don’t believe our leaf peepers will be disappointed,” according to Gale Ross, fall foliage spokesperson.

Leaf peepers can visit the state’s official foliage website, www.mainefoliage.com, to sign up to receive weekly reports by email, and can share their photos from throughout the state as the progression of color begins to peak.

Week of October 5, 2016 ....

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