Are you wondering “when do leaves change color in Nebraska?” It’s a common question. Nebraska isn’t really considered a fall leaf-peeping destination, but we who live here know that our state puts on a pretty great show every year. The lush river valleys are especially spectacular, but you can find bright fall colors almost anywhere in Nebraska. According to this interactive fall foliage prediction map released by SmokyMountains.com, here’s when we can expect to see the best foliage all across Nebraska this season.

According to this fall foliage prediction map, most of Nebraska won't start to see any significant color changes until mid October. According to this prediction map, the leaves should start to put on their show right around the middle of October. Foliage varies depending on what region of the Cornhusker State you're from, though. Northern Nebraska is generally a week or so ahead of the southern part of the state.
Elijah Hassler/Flickr
In fact, by the end of October, the northern region of the state will be wrapping things up as the leaves start to fall and the bright colors fade a bit. Those traveling through the southern and western parts of the state will see the foliage at its peak during this time.
Shelby L. Bell/Flickr
In other words, peak fall foliage for Nebraska this fall will take place the week of Oct. 31 for Northern Nebraskans and the week of Nov. 7 for Southern Nebraskans.
Shelby L. Bell/Flickr
So to answer the original question of "when will the leaves change in Nebraska?" -- the answer is, all throughout October! Between the beginning of and end of the month of October, it will be as if Mother Nature is slowly turning the dial up on the fall colors radio.
Shelby L. Bell/Flickr
One of our favorite parts of fall is going to the highest point in my neighborhood and taking a picture every day to document the color changes. Some years it seems like nothing happens for ages, and then the leaves go from green to fiery orange overnight. In other words, YES, fall foliage happens in Nebraska, and it's downright delightful!
flickr/Ali Eminov

This map’s predictions are just that: predictions. No one can say for sure when the leaves will reach their peak colors. It depends on temperature and precipitation, and we know that in Nebraska there are never any guarantees on those!

What’s your favorite foliage viewing spot in the fall? Share the best places in the comments so we can all get out there and see nature’s most beautiful spectacle this year!

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When do leaves change color in Nebraska?

Sarah M. | September 19, 2022

What's fall in Nebraska generally like?

Fall in Nebraska is a beautiful season that we're always so thankful to experience. While the rest of the country hasn't caught on to our fall foliage prowess, Nebraskans know how divine this season is! Temperatures begin to fall in September and October, with daytime highs going from the '80s around Labor Day, to the '70s and even upper '60s by Halloween. Our fall foliage is plentiful, our fall festivals are magical, and, in our very humble opinion, our fall game is the best in the country!

What are some of the best places to view fall foliage in Nebraska?

Autumn is a bold and brilliant season in the Cornhusker State and there are all sorts of state parks in Nebraska that offer some of the most incredible views of fall foliage. Check out Platte River State Park in Louisville, Mahoney State Park in Ashland, or perhaps even Indian Cave State Park in Shubert. Ponca State Park is a favorite as well, and some folks choose to indulge in drives down the Lincoln Highway Scenic and Historic Byway, the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway, or the Heritage Highway of Nebraska for great dashboard views. We also put together this fall foliage road trip in Nebraska that offers a big punch of fall colors; the trip visits naturally scenic areas along Heritage Byway (also known as the "Highway of Treasures") such as the charming small towns of Brownville, Alma, and Edison and amazing state parks such as Indian Cave State Park and Rock Creek Station State Historical Park.

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