Wisconsin Fall colors are here

By Kelsie Hoitomt

The first official day of fall was Saturday, September 22 and the signs of this are all around us as the leaves have started to change to their bright yellow, orange and red colors.

The fall colors actually peaked ahead of schedule this year compared to other years, according to a report out by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

This happens when there are warmer late summer days and cooler nights. The weather before the fall season is what helps to determine the intensity in the color of the leaves.
The DNR states that Wisconsin forests are noted for being among the best in the nation for fall color and forest-based recreation, including viewing the fall beauty, which is estimated to contribute $5.5 billion to the Wisconsin economy through travel-related and equipment expenditures.

A few of the best places to go to view the Wisconsin fall colors are along the St. Croix Riverway, the Mississippi River Valley, the Lake Superior shoreline and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.