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This week marks the official start of fall, and that feels right in sync with what we’re experiencing on the ground. Early risers in many parts of Vermont have awakened to a moonlit silver sheen of frost on the ground, and cool and abundantly sunny days have made for perfect leaf peeping weather.

Frost has paid an early visit to pockets of the state as this week graces Vermont with cool, crisp nights and warm, sunny days—conditions that contribute to our most vibrant foliage. And while the best of fall color is yet to come, signs of the season abound.

Although many factors contribute to the vibrancy and length of Vermont’s foliage season, conditions so far point to an exciting display of color this year.

Vermont is right in the heart of another storybook foliage season, with fall color now present in every part of the state as some regions move beyond peak, others come into peak, and still others are just beginning to see leaves changing. Western and southern areas and the Champlain and Connecticut Valleys are enjoying early to mid stages.

All foliage conditions are present across Vermont this week. Splashes and bursts of color have spread to whole hillsides painted in vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges.

In his recent budget address to the legislature, Governor Scott proposed a more than $20 million investment in outdoor recreation. This major addition in one-time funding for outdoor recreation invests in both short-term recovery from COVID-19 and long-term stewardship of our public lands, human health, and the long-term health of our economy.

Two words describe Vermont’s foliage this week: Beauty endures. Even as peak conditions begin to subside in much of the state, spectators will surely be struck by just how much color is hanging on.

Even as this last chapter of another spectacular foliage season nears completion, the closing lines are yet to be written.