Connecticut Environment Officials Unveil Fall Foliage Predictions

Fall foliage season in Connecticut. Some say it's the most wonderful time of the year.

Foliage season begins in late September and extends through early November. Now, as we've found out in recent years, the weather plays a big part when it comes to peak foliage. Peak time can change by a few days, even a week or so.

If you're a savvy foliage fan, then you already know why we get such brilliant colors around this time of year. Did you know that the leaves on the trees already possess these spectacular colors, however right now, they are hidden? Leaves contain a chemical substance called chlorophyll, the substance that gives leaves their inherent green color. As the season begins to turn cold and as we get less daylight hours, trees begin to block the flow of water to their leaves. Without water, the chlorophyll breaks down and vibrant colors are revealed, also know as the fall foliage.

According to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, peak color is estimated to be between October 5 and November 8 here in Connecticut.

Here are some tips from the CT DEEP for fall foliage viewing:

• If you can plan your trip during mid-week; you will find that roads are quieter, plus parks will be less crowded giving you more opportunity to enjoy the views.
• Explore the State's back roads.  Some of the best sights are off the beaten path.
• Don't worry about missing "peak" color. You will still be able to enjoy a full array of colors that can be found before "peak".
• Make time to explore some areas on foot.  Hiking allows you to truly experience the foliage up close.
• Try one of the many bike ways throughout the state to take in the colors.

Some local parks that you may want to check out include Tarrywile Park in Danbury, Putnam State Park and Huntington State Park both in Redding, Bennett's State Park in Ridgefield, Bear Mountain Reservation in Danbury, Mt. Tom State Park in Litchfield, and Macedonia Brook State Park in Kent.

Happy viewing!!!!