It’s Week 5 of our annual fall Leaf Watch series. Here’s what the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) says about this week:
“Leaf color is looking good for all species above the 3,000-foot mark! All species are within the peak period with oaks being in the early stage of peak.
Yellow birch is the show stopper for this week. While they turn fast and quickly lose their leaves, they exhibit a fantastic glow of yellow. The bonus is if you find a large concentration you can smell the wintergreen smell they emit.
Fortunately, we have not had any significant freezes, which has allowed the trees to slowly and thoroughly change color giving way to great displays of red to yellow and every shade in between. Some areas along river corridors have lost their leaves already, giving great views of our rivers and streams. Areas below 3,000 feet are showing great roadside and understory displays. As the canopies change along with the understory, the forest brighten with an array of colors and ambient glows. This is the time to enjoy lower elevation hikes or strolls in the woods.
PERCENTAGE OF LEAF CHANGE:
Above 3,000’ – 90%
Below 3,000’ – 65%
WEATHER:
Rain and fog can hinder the viewing from overlooks and higher elevations in general, so make sure to check the forecast before planning an excursion. It can be sunny and clear in the piedmont and cloudy with mist or rain in higher elevations. Also, remember that temperatures can be 10 or more degrees cooler in higher elevations, so make sure to dress appropriately and take a jacket.
OUTINGS:
For high elevation driving, take the Richard B. Russel Scenic Highway just northwest of Helen. If you want to go east from there, drive the Lovell- Wilkie Scenic Highway (365) and work your way over to Black Rock Mountain State Park. While you’re in Rabun County go enjoy the great views from the Sky Valley overlook.
Click here to view all of this week’s photos and access our 2025 Leaf Watch map.“