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According to DCNR, Pennsylvania’s location between 40° and 42° North latitude and its varied topography from sea level to over 3,000 feet supports 134 species of trees like sassafras, sugar maple, red maple, birch, ash and cherry. Such species peak earlier, followed by species like hickory and oak, which ripen more slowly. Many more shrubs and vines, such as Virginia creeper, contribute to the brilliant autumn color display. Visit www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/pubs/leaves/leaves.shtm for a helpful explanation of why leaves change color.

The Keystone State has “a longer and more varied fall foliage season than any other state in the nation—or anywhere in the world,” according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Further, “only three regions of the world support deciduous forests that display fall autumn color: eastern North America; the British Isles and parts of northwestern Europe; northeastern China and northern Japan. Forests in other regions are either tropical or dominated by conifers.”

That’s quite a claim, but one we are proud and pleased to affirm as we travel throughout the Upper Delaware River region now. Fall foliage color is ripening quickly here, and DCNR offers its Fall Foliage Report estimating the peak weeks for color, as well as an online mapping tool to plan your leaf peeping adventures. (See both at www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forest ry/stateforests/fallfoliage/index.htm). Pike and Wayne counties are predicted to peak in the second and third weeks of October.

Make the most of the fleet days that will brighten our lives before delivering us at the threshold of winter. Take to the abundant trails throughout the region, or go for a drive along scenic roadways such as Route 6 in PA or Route 97 in NY.

For organized foliage-related events, check out the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s “Falling Leaves Family Nature Getaway Weekend,” October 7-10 or “Signs of Fall,” October 15, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (www.peec.org/programs/events/month.calendar/2016/10/02/-).

Join the Brodhead Watershed Association on October 15 to explore the 300-acre Shuman Point Natural Area on Lake Wallenpaupack near Hawley in Pike County. Naturalist Carol Hillestad will lead a three-mile moderately difficult hike beginning at 10 a.m. at the Shuman Point parking area on Route 590 West. Registration is required for the free hike by calling 570/839-1120 or 570/629-2727; or by email to: info@brodheadwatershed.org.

For abundant foliage information pertaining to New York, see the “Guide to Fall Colors in Upstate New York” by Donald J. Leopold, Chair, Department of Environmental and Forest Biology at SUNY (www.esf.edu/ecenter/CNY%20Fall%20Colors.pdf).