When you think about breathtaking fall foliage, Texas likely isn’t the first place that comes to mind. That’s a shame, however, because trees all across the state come ablaze with vibrant red, gold, yellow, and brown hues every autumn – and this year in particular is expected to be especially promising. Keep reading to learn a little of the science behind leaf-changing and see some of the most incredible spectacles in the Lone Star State.
According to Smoky Mountains, several different factors—including rainfall, temperature, and sunshine—play into how vibrant the fall foliage will be in any given year. We’ve had plenty of precipitation this summer to keep the leaves healthy, so it looks like the Lone Star State will be enjoying a very colorful autumn.
Flickr/bettytimm
Believe it or not, this is what trees would look like year-round if it weren’t for sunlight! Chlorophyll, the green pigment produced during photosynthesis, masks the true color of the leaf from spring to early fall.
Flickr/Michael Anthony Dziedzic
September will be the most telling month in regards to just how spectacular we can expect the foliage to be. Plenty of sunshine, cool evenings, and limited rainfall are key ingredients for the best colors.
Flickr/danielray
When fall rolls around and the days start getting increasingly shorter, chlorophyll production slows down and allows for the brilliant gold, red, yellow, and brown hues to make their presence known. Given the large amount of moisture and ample sunshine Texas has received so far this summer, conditions are looking mighty favorable for the fall foliage to impress us all.
Flickr/cameliatwu
In Texas, our foliage is expected to peak around mid-November. Click here to see a map with more precise dates for the entire country.
Flickr/matthigh
So whether you head up north to Wichita Falls…
Flickr/Nick Pelletier
…way out west to the peaks and valleys of McKittrick Canyon…
Flickr/matthigh
…or to the rolling hills and panoramic vistas of Central Texas, there’s autumnal beauty to be found all across the state.
Flickr/hayesandjenn
Where’s your favorite place to see fall foliage in Texas? If you need some ideas of where to go this year, check out: The Fall Foliage At These 10 State And National Parks In Texas Is Stunningly Beautiful.
Flickr/bettytimm
Flickr/Michael Anthony Dziedzic
Flickr/danielray
Flickr/cameliatwu
Flickr/matthigh
Flickr/Nick Pelletier
Flickr/hayesandjenn
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