Here’s Southwest Michigan’s Fall Color Report

Fall Color And Weather Predictions

The beginning of fall in Southwest Michigan is as refreshing as it is beautiful. Early in the season, daytime highs hover in the mid-60s to low-70s, with plenty of sunshine and the occasional shower. During the last two weeks of October, fall colors reach their jewel-toned peak, with vivid leaves lingering along the lakeshore into early November. As the season progresses, expect cooler days in the mid to low-50s, dipping into the 40s and 30s by November when the last leaves drift to the ground.

Slide the leaf below to see our projected peak fall color based on previous years.

Sept. 13-19

A white, ornate fountain sits in a park surrounded by trees and a stone walkway. The clear sky and greenery create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.

A group of kayakers in the river during the fall

A person raises a glass of beer against a backdrop of vibrant fall foliage, as the sunlight illuminates the brew with a warm, golden glow.

Southwest Michigan fall leaves on a boardwalk

September 13-19

This week, spot a smattering of vivid early leaves against our emerald-green countryside. Their vivid hues mingle with shades of mums and pumpkins along sidewalks, climb dunes and contrast with waves crashing along the shore.

Things To Do This Week

Harvest Festival
Jollay Orchards
Kolsh Fest
Round Barn Brewery & Public House

Fall Events

September 20-26

Autumn officially arrives on Sept. 22. The mostly green forests are readying for a color explosion with isolated red, orange or yellow leaves.

Fall Events

September 27-October 3

It’s happening. Much less green and more fiery hues in our beech-maple forests, dunes, wetlands and along the banks of our streams and rivers.

Things To Do This Week

Four Flags Area Apple Festival
Oct. 1-4 | Niles
Donut Fest
Oct. 3-4 | Round Barn Winery | Baroda

Fall Events

October 4-10

Summer green leaves are still enjoying our warm days. It’s a great week to hike, paddle, golf and walk the beaches, spotting patches of color.

Things To Do This Week

Under the Harvest Moon Festival
Dowagiac
Halloween Boo Bash
Silver Beach Carousel

Fall Events

October 11-17

Expect to see more swaths of reds, yellows and oranges in our forests and small towns. Birds are migrating to our area, so bring your binoculars.

Things To Do This Week

Tree Walk
Oct. 11 | Sarett Nature Center
Fall ArtJam at The Box
Oct. 16 | Box Factory for the Arts

Fall Events

October 18-24

Fall color soothsayers predict we're just about a week away from peak color, with the autumn landscape growing more vibrant by the day. Toast this glorious season with autumn-hued craft beverages on our Makers Trail.