Due to the decreasing hours of sunlight and chilly New England nights, the leaves on deciduous trees stop producing chlorophyll needed to create the rich green hue of summertime foliage. As the green pigment of chlorophyll fades, underlying hues that range from pale yellow to brilliant orange and scarlet emerge.
Fall foliage reaches its peak in early to late fall, depending on the region and the current weather conditions. Generally northern climates peak first with southern areas turning during the following weeks.
Viewing fall foliage requires bright sunny days for optimum color and visibility. Fortunately, cool sunny days are commonplace that time of year. Conditions are optimal for photography. Settings along lakes and streams provide the opportunity to photograph brightly colored foliage reflected on the surface of the water, creating the illusion of colorful lakes and streams.
Professionally guided tours leave Boston in early fall and travel throughout the 6 New England states (see Resources), stopping to visit local spots of interest. Cost for coach tours as of 2008 range from a little under a $1000 to $1500 or more for an 8-day tour. Cruise ships also provide tours of the New England coastline.
Natural trails, hiking trails and bicycle trails provide the perfect opportunity to experience the wonders of nature up close and allow the traveler to determine his own pace soaking in the beauty of the season. An afternoon excursion through back country roads provides many opportunities to view fall foliage untouched by industrialization.
Leaves gathered during the fall can be preserved as mementos of the occasion. The simplest method requires placing the leaf between 2 sheets of waxed paper and ironing with a warm iron. Once cooled, the wax paper removes easily, revealing a perfectly waxed leaf that will keep for years. Other methods include submerging the leaf in a solution of glycerin and water for several days or simply pressing the leaf between the pages of a book.
Whether you are a tourist visiting New England for the first time or a native who enjoys the yearly changing of the leaves, the glorious fall foliage is a breath-taking experience that lasts for a few short weeks each year.
